Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini is the perfect meal for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering. This dish combines tender cheese-filled tortellini, juicy chicken, and vibrant broccoli in a creamy Parmesan cheese sauce. Its delightful flavors and simplicity make it a go-to recipe that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of cook time, this dish is ideal for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with flavors that appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Featuring fresh broccoli and lean chicken, it’s a healthy choice for dinner.
• Creamy Goodness: The rich cheese sauce brings everything together, creating a comforting meal.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or paired with a side salad for an impressive spread.

Tools and Preparation

For this recipe, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools that will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the tortellini and combining all ingredients efficiently.
• Chef’s knife: A must-have for dicing chicken and chopping broccoli quickly and safely.
• Measuring cups: Helps ensure accurate ingredient portions for the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Dish

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 (20 ounce) package cheese tortellini
• 3 cups fresh broccoli, roughly chopped
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• salt and black pepper

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini

Step 1: Heat Olive Oil

Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large pot. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Broth and Milk

Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and milk. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Cook Tortellini

Add the cheese tortellini to the boiling liquid. Cook for about 2 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 4: Incorporate Broccoli

Stir in the roughly chopped broccoli. Continue cooking for approximately 3 minutes or until the tortellini is fully cooked and the broccoli is bright green.

Step 5: Add Cream Cheese and Parmesan

Lower the heat and add cream cheese along with grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until both cheeses have melted into a creamy sauce.

Step 6: Mix in Chicken

Gently fold in the diced cooked chicken until everything is combined well.

Step 7: Season to Taste

Season your creamy dish with salt and black pepper according to your preference.

Step 8: Serve Hot

Serve your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini warm, garnished with extra Parmesan on top if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread complements the creamy tortellini perfectly, providing a crunchy texture.

Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.

Steamed Vegetables

• Seasoned Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or green beans lightly steamed and seasoned can enhance the meal’s nutritional value while keeping it colorful.

Extra Cheese Topping

• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan on top before serving for an added cheesy goodness that everyone will enjoy.

Lemon Wedges

• Lemon Wedges: Offering lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add a burst of freshness and acidity to balance the creaminess of the dish.

Toasted Pine Nuts

• Toasted Pine Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts provides a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the tortellini.

How to Perfect Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini

To make your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini truly exceptional, follow these helpful tips for perfecting this dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality cheese will enhance the overall flavor and texture of your meal.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for the best results.
• Cook Tortellini Carefully: Follow package instructions closely for cooking tortellini; overcooking can lead to mushy pasta.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese like mozzarella or cheddar to give your sauce a unique twist.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time; simply reheat gently when ready to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini

To complement your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini, consider these delicious side dishes that will round out your meal nicely.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing pairs wonderfully with tortellini.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized sprouts add a savory crunch that contrasts well with the creamy pasta.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and flavorful mashed potatoes can provide an excellent base alongside your main dish.
4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella on skewers create a fresh appetizer that’s easy to enjoy.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a fun element and is perfect for summer dinners outdoors.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles add freshness without being heavy, complementing the richness of the tortellini.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini is simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the garlic: Garlic adds flavor to the dish. Don’t skip it; cook it until fragrant for the best taste.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Broccoli should be bright green and tender-crisp. Remove it from heat as soon as it reaches this stage to preserve its color and nutrients.
• Not seasoning properly: Taste your dish before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors effectively.
• Using cold cream cheese: For a smoother sauce, let the cream cheese come to room temperature before adding it. This helps it melt more easily.
• Ignoring pasta cooking time: Follow the package instructions for tortellini cooking times closely. Overcooked pasta can become mushy.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini

• Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place in a baking dish covered with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to a skillet over medium heat. Stir until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli in Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just add it when you add the tortellini, ensuring it’s heated through before serving.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can omit the chicken and replace it with extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version of Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini.

What type of cheese works best?

Parmesan is ideal for this recipe, but feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for added flavor.

Can I prepare Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything except the cream cheese sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Conclusion

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini is not only quick and easy but also deliciously creamy and satisfying. Its versatility allows you to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful dinner that everyone will love!