Description
Savory garlic parmesan tortellini dances with tender chicken and crisp broccoli in this quick weeknight comfort classic. Creamy sauce and hearty ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 (9-ounce) package cheese tortellini
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
Dairy and Cheese:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Seasoning and Liquid Ingredients:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta and green vegetable by immersing tortellini in rapidly boiling water. Incorporate broccoli florets during the final moments of cooking to ensure crisp-tender texture. Carefully drain the contents and reserve.
- Transform the skillet into a searing platform for protein. Melt butter and introduce seasoned chicken pieces, allowing them to develop a golden-brown exterior while maintaining succulent interior. Extract chicken once thoroughly cooked and temporarily set aside.
- Craft a velvety sauce foundation using the same skillet. Release aromatic garlic into melted butter, creating a fragrant base. Sprinkle flour and whisk diligently to eliminate potential lumps. Gradually integrate chicken broth and milk, stirring consistently to achieve a smooth, luxurious consistency.
- Orchestrate a harmonious reunion by returning chicken and broccoli into the developing sauce. Gently fold tortellini into the mixture, ensuring each pasta pillow becomes lavishly coated. Incorporate Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and create a creamy embrace.
- Perform final flavor adjustments with strategic salt and pepper application. Transfer to serving dishes, embellishing with additional Parmesan cheese for enhanced richness and visual appeal. Present immediately while sauce remains warm and inviting.
Notes
- Perfectly cook tortellini al dente by setting a timer and checking texture frequently to avoid mushy pasta.
- Steam broccoli briefly to maintain its vibrant green color and crisp-tender texture, preserving maximum nutritional value.
- Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for leaner protein and faster cooking time, trimming any visible fat before seasoning.
- Create a silky smooth sauce by whisking continuously and adding liquid gradually to prevent lumps and ensure consistent texture.
- Swap regular milk with low-fat or plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk for a lighter, dairy-free version.
- Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for subtle heat if you enjoy a spicier dish without overwhelming the delicate garlic and Parmesan flavors.
- Meal prep friendly: store components separately and combine just before serving to maintain optimal texture and prevent soggy tortellini.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 95mg