Creamy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini: Easy 20-Min Dinner!

✨ Creamy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini: Easy 20-Min Dinner! 🍝🧀🍗

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a cheesy tortellini dinner that comes together quickly and satisfies your craving for a creamy, flavorful meal, this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini recipe is your new favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights, this 20-minute chicken pasta dish combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and luscious cheese-filled tortellini in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s an irresistible combination of comfort and convenience that your whole family will love. With minimal prep and quick cooking, this recipe is designed to be your go-to for a hearty and delicious dinner that takes less than half an hour to prepare.

2. Ingredients Needed for Creamy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini

• 1 lb (450g) cheese tortellini
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat milk for a lighter option
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

3. How to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheesy tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the boiling water. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta and broccoli are cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained tortellini and broccoli. Toss everything together to coat evenly with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until heated through.

4. Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini

For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving. If the sauce needs to be thicker, stir in a bit of grated Parmesan or let it simmer a minute longer. To make this dish healthier, substitute heavy cream with low-fat milk or Greek yogurt, and add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.

5. Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Creamy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving for long periods to prevent the sauce from separating.

6. Serving Suggestions for This Cheesy Tortellini Dinner

This 20-minute chicken pasta is fantastic on its own but can be elevated with a side of quick creamy cucumber salad or sauteed mushrooms with spinach. Serve alongside a crusty baguette or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

7. FAQs About Creamy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini

Can I substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp, which cooks quickly and adds a seafood twist. For a vegetarian version, try tofu—just pan-fry until golden before adding to the sauce.

How long does it take to prepare?

This 20-minute chicken pasta recipe is designed for quick weeknight cooking, with most of the prep and cooking completed within half an hour.

Is there a dairy-free version available?

Yes, swap heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.

8. Kitchen Tools that You Might Need for This Recipe

• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — Crucial for quick vegetable chopping and slicing.
• Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker — Not necessary for the recipe but perfect for keeping your beverages cold while cooking.
• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensures non-stick cooking and easy cleanup for your skillet.
• Presto Pizzazz Plus Rotating Pizza Oven — Ideal for making quick garlic bread or side dishes to complement your dinner.

Investing in these tools can make your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable, ensuring perfect results every time.

9. Conclusion

Now that you know exactly how to prepare this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini, you can have a delicious, satisfying meal ready in just 20 minutes. This cheesy tortellini dinner is perfect for busy nights when you crave comfort food without the hours of cooking. Experiment with vegetables or protein substitutions to customize the dish to your taste. For more quick and easy recipes, visit our website and stay inspired in the kitchen!

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