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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Tortellini
- Start by cooking the tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside. Save about 1/2 cup of pasta water in case you need it to adjust the sauce later.
2. Sauté the Chicken
- While the tortellini cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using).
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Broccoli
- In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender. If you’re using frozen broccoli, cook until it’s heated through. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set it aside with the chicken.
4. Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes to deglaze the pan and pick up any flavorful bits from the chicken and garlic.
- Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken.
5. Combine Everything
- Once the sauce has thickened, add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- Return the cooked chicken, broccoli, and tortellini to the skillet and gently toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Serve the creamy garlic Parmesan tortellini hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for added richness.
Tips for Success
- Make it Lighter: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream, although the sauce may be a bit less rich.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to make the dish even more colorful and nutritious.
- Cook the Chicken in Batches: If you’re making a double batch, consider cooking the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause it to steam rather than brown.
- Use Frozen Tortellini: If you don’t have access to fresh tortellini, frozen works just as well. Just cook it according to the package instructions and proceed with the recipe.
Why This Dish Stands Out
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is the perfect comfort food that’s both indulgent and balanced. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and flavorful tortellini creates a satisfying and wholesome meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s both family-friendly and impressive enough for guests. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your preferences, and it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a meal that combines convenience with comfort, look no further than Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli. This dish is rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making it a perfect option for any night of the week. With its creamy sauce, hearty chicken, and nutritious vegetables, it’s a satisfying dinner that everyone will love. Try it out today and enjoy a meal that’s both simple and indulgent!
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