If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying dinner option that delivers both comfort and flavor, look no further than this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini. This one-pot recipe combines creamy Parmesan sauce, cheese-filled tortellini, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli for a meal that’s as hearty as it is delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights, it comes together in just 25 minutes!
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup milk
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
Heat Olive Oil: Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and milk, bringing the mixture to a boil. Stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and smooth.
Cook Tortellini: Add the cheese tortellini to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, or according to the package instructions.
Add Broccoli: Stir in the fresh broccoli florets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
Combine Chicken and Cheese: Mix in the cooked chicken and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until everything is combined and the cheese is melted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Simmer and Serve: Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 minutes to thicken slightly. Serve hot.
Serving Tips:
Garnish for Extra Flavor: Top your dish with a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan cheese or a dash of red pepper flakes for added flavor and a touch of color.
Accompaniments: Serve the tortellini with a side of crusty garlic bread or a fresh green salad to round out the meal.
Portion Control: Divide the dish into individual portions before serving to make it easier to manage and enjoy.
Make It a Meal: For a heartier meal, consider adding a side of steamed vegetables or a fruit salad.
Storage Tips:
Cool Before Storing: Allow the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini to cool to room temperature before transferring it to storage containers.
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the container is well-sealed to prevent the dish from absorbing other odors.
Freezing: If you want to freeze leftovers, place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It’s best to freeze within 2 hours of cooking. The dish can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop. If using the microwave, heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. If reheating on the stovetop, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened during storage.
Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, do so just until heated through to avoid overcooking the tortellini and broccoli, which could make them mushy.
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FAQs:
Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just add them directly to the pot without thawing. You may need to cook them for an additional 1-2 minutes to ensure they are heated through and tender.
Can I substitute the cream cheese with something else?
If you prefer not to use cream cheese, you can substitute it with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or an extra 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese. These substitutes will still provide a creamy texture and rich flavor, though the taste may vary slightly.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Cook it according to the recipe, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to restore the creamy consistency.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini is a quick, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its creamy Parmesan sauce and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this delicious one-pot dish that’s ready in just 25 minutes.
📖 Recipe:
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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini is a delicious and comforting one-pot meal that combines cheese-filled tortellini, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli in a creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this hearty dish is easy to make and packed with flavor. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a family-friendly meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup milk
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and milk, bringing it to a boil. Stir in cream cheese until smooth.
- Add tortellini to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in broccoli and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
- Add cooked chicken and Parmesan cheese, stirring until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese before serving.
To make this dish vegetarian, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead.
Adjust the seasoning to taste, and consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal
Keywords: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini, one-pot meal, easy tortellini recipe, creamy chicken pasta, weeknight dinner
