Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli Delight

November 26, 2025August 24, 2025 by Chef Tavio

Ingredients

Main Ingredients List

– 2 cups cheese tortellini

– 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded

– 2 cups fresh broccoli florets

– 1 cup heavy cream

Additional Ingredients

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Seasoning and Garnish

– Salt and pepper

– Fresh parsley, finely chopped

The main ingredients in this dish are simple yet flavorful. Cheese tortellini adds a lovely texture and taste. Cooked chicken provides protein and heartiness. Fresh broccoli florets bring color and nutrition to the plate. Heavy cream makes the dish rich and creamy.

In addition, olive oil is great for sautéing. Minced garlic adds depth to the flavor. Grated Parmesan cheese gives a salty kick. Italian seasoning enhances the overall taste with its blend of herbs.

For seasoning, salt and pepper allow you to adjust the flavor. Fresh parsley garnishes the dish, adding a bright touch. This mix of ingredients creates a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Tortellini and Broccoli

First, grab a large pot and fill it with salted water. Bring this to a rolling boil. It’s important to use enough salt; this adds flavor to your tortellini. Once the water is boiling, add in 2 cups of cheese tortellini. You will want to cook them according to the package instructions. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.

Now, for the last 3 minutes of cooking, gently add in 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets. This will make them tender but still bright and crunchy. After everything is cooked, drain the tortellini and broccoli together. Set them aside in a large serving bowl while you prepare the next steps.

Sautéing the Garlic

Next, take a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil gets nice and hot. This helps to flavor the dish. Once the oil is ready, add in 2 cloves of minced garlic. Cook the garlic for about 1-2 minutes. Stir it often to prevent burning. You want the garlic to become fragrant, not browned.

Adding Chicken and Cream Sauce

Now it’s time to add some protein. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken into the skillet with the garlic. Cook this mixture for about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken is warmed through.

Next, we’ll create the cream sauce. Gradually pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring constantly. Keep an eye on it and let it come to a gentle simmer. Avoid boiling the mixture. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.

Finishing the Dish

Now, let’s add some flavor! Toss in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Stir well until the cheese melts completely into the sauce. This will make the sauce creamy and rich.

Season your dish with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Mix it thoroughly to ensure the seasoning is even.

Finally, add the cooked tortellini and broccoli into the skillet. Carefully toss everything together to coat the pasta and broccoli in the creamy sauce.

Remove the skillet from heat. Let the dish sit for 1 minute to let the flavors meld. Now, your creamy chicken tortellini with broccoli is ready to enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Cream Sauce

To create a creamy sauce, you want the right consistency. Start by adding the heavy cream slowly. Stir as you pour. This helps the cream blend well. Let it simmer gently. Avoid boiling, as this can curdle the sauce. A gentle simmer thickens the sauce nicely without ruining it.

Serving Suggestions

When plating, use wide, shallow bowls. This lets the dish shine. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. It adds color and freshness. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal. A simple green salad on the side pairs nicely too.

Enhancing Flavor

To adjust the taste, consider spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick. You can also try adding fresh basil or thyme. To get the best flavor, time your seasonings right. Add salt and pepper just before serving. This keeps the taste fresh and vibrant.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

For an easy twist on creamy chicken tortellini, try different proteins. You can use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken. Both options bring unique flavors. Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a nice seafood touch. Tofu offers a great vegetarian choice and soaks up the sauce well.

You can also mix in different vegetables. Instead of broccoli, use spinach or peas. Both options are colorful and tasty. Bell peppers or zucchini can add crunch and flavor too. Get creative with what you have on hand!

Dietary Modifications

If you need gluten-free options, look for gluten-free tortellini. Many brands offer this choice now. You can also make your own if you feel adventurous. Swap out heavy cream for almond milk or coconut cream for a lighter dish. You can still enjoy a creamy texture without all the calories.

For a lighter version, reduce the amount of cream. Use just half a cup and add extra broth or water. This keeps it creamy but cuts back on richness. You can also try low-fat sour cream for a different taste.

Flavor Profiles

To add a kick of flavor, try spices! A pinch of red pepper flakes can bring heat. You can also add a dash of smoked paprika for depth. These spices can really change the dish’s personality.

Incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or spinach can enhance taste too. Sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet, tangy note. Spinach boosts nutrition and adds a nice color contrast. These small changes can create a whole new dish while keeping the creamy goodness.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

Store leftover creamy chicken tortellini in a sealed container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Ensure the dish cools down before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup. This helps maintain its texture and taste.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of cream or milk to keep it creamy. Stir gently to avoid burning. You can also use a microwave; just cover it and heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This keeps the dish from drying out.

Freezing Suggestions

Yes, you can freeze this dish! To freeze, let it cool completely first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It stays good for about three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently, adding a bit of cream to restore creaminess. This way, you enjoy the same delicious flavors later!

FAQs

How long does creamy chicken tortellini last in the fridge?

Creamy chicken tortellini lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh and safe to eat. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. If it smells off or looks strange, toss it out.

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just adjust the cooking time. Usually, frozen tortellini takes a little longer to cook. Follow the package directions for the best results. You can add the broccoli at the same time as the tortellini. This ensures they cook together perfectly.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. Both will change the texture a bit. For a vegan option, try coconut milk or almond milk. These alternatives still give a creamy feel, but they change the flavor slightly.

How to make it dairy-free?

To make creamy chicken tortellini dairy-free, use coconut milk or cashew cream. Both options add a rich taste without any dairy. You also need to skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese. Adjust the seasoning to balance the flavors.

This blog post explored how to make creamy chicken tortellini. We covered main ingredients like cheese tortellini, cooked chicken, broccoli, and heavy cream. Step-by-step, we discussed cooking techniques, tips for flavor, and serving ideas. You discovered useful variations, storage, and reheating methods.

I hope this guide helps you create a delicious meal. Enjoy cooking this dish for family and friend