Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a simple and tasty dish that combines tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. The garlic adds a nice punch, while the Parmesan cheese gives a rich, comforting flavor that makes this meal feel special without any fuss.
I love how quickly this comes together on a busy night—everything cooks in one pan, and the sauce is ready in minutes. Adding fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra cheese on top makes it feel like a treat. I also find that using store-bought tortellini keeps things super easy without losing any flavor.
When I serve this dish, I usually pair it with a simple green salad or some steamed veggies to balance the richness. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day, and I’ve noticed everyone always asks for seconds. This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is definitely a favorite to keep in your weeknight dinner rotation.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook evenly and stay juicy. You can swap with thighs for richer taste or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini brings creamy, cheesy goodness. Fresh or frozen works well. If you prefer, ravioli or small pasta like gnocchi can be good substitutes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. Mince it finely so it releases its aroma quickly. Garlic powder works in a pinch but won’t be as fresh.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly and adds nuttiness. Pre-grated is handy but can be less flavorful. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano is a good choice.
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce rich and smooth. For a lighter version, try half-and-half or whole milk but expect a thinner sauce.
How Do I Get Tender, Juicy Chicken Every Time?
Perfect chicken is key to this dish. Here’s how I do it:
- Cut chicken into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
- Season well with salt, pepper, and a little Italian seasoning for flavor.
- Heat olive oil first, then add chicken to a hot pan—the sizzle means you’ll get a nice brown crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming.
- Cook about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway, until no longer pink inside.
- Remove chicken before adding garlic to avoid overcooking.
Following these steps helps keep the chicken juicy and flavorful, which makes this creamy pasta dish stand out. You can always slice a piece and check before finishing the dish.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I like using one with a lid so I can cook the pasta and broccoli all in one pan.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for slicing chicken and chopping garlic and parsley easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep the ingredients precise, especially the cream and cheese.
- Stirring spoon or silicone spatula – helps mix the sauce smoothly without scratching the pan.
- Colander – to drain the tortellini if cooking it separately first.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked shrimp or browned sausage for different protein options that add a new twist.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for more veggies and earthiness.
- Stir in a teaspoon of lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice for fresh brightness.
- Sprinkle with extra cheeses like mozzarella or a bit of crumbled feta for different flavor profiles.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (optional, for added greens)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 to 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend time slicing and cooking the chicken, preparing the sauce, and letting the tortellini and broccoli cook until tender. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for any weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning on the chicken to add flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring often, until the garlic is fragrant but not burned.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet. Use a spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer.
5. Add Tortellini and Broccoli:
Add the tortellini and broccoli florets to the skillet. Cover with a lid and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and the broccoli is bright green and just tender.
6. Stir in Cheese and Spices:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Stir everything together until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to mix it into the creamy tortellini and broccoli. Heat for another 1 to 2 minutes until everything is warmed through.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and some extra Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini hot and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini?
Yes! Frozen tortellini works perfectly in this recipe. Just add a minute or two to the cooking time if needed, and make sure it’s fully cooked and tender before serving.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and add extra veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes. You can also add a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas for heartiness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra flavor and stay juicy. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, cooking them until they’re fully cooked and nicely browned.
