Name: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 ½ 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; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups cooked chicken, diced; Salt and black pepper, to taste

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When it comes to quick, hearty, and utterly delicious dinners, Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini takes the crown. This creamy, cheesy dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and cheese-filled tortellini in a luscious Parmesan sauce, making it a meal that the whole family will devour.

The best part? It’s ready in just 20 minutes! Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a casual gathering, this recipe will not disappoint.

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce and cheesy tortellini are sure to win over even the pickiest eaters.
Nutrient-Packed: With fresh broccoli and protein-rich chicken, this meal is as nourishing as it is delicious.
Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to whip up this cheesy masterpiece:

Olive Oil: Just a teaspoon to sauté the garlic and bring out its flavor.
Garlic: Two cloves, minced, for a fragrant base.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Adds depth to the sauce without being overly salty.
Milk: For creaminess without being too heavy.
Cheese Tortellini: The star of the show! A 20-ounce package of cheese-filled tortellini works perfectly.
Broccoli: Fresh and roughly chopped for a pop of color and nutrients.
Cream Cheese: An 8-ounce package for that creamy, velvety texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Half a cup of grated Parmesan adds a sharp, cheesy kick.
Cooked Chicken: Diced into bite-sized pieces for easy eating. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here!
Salt and Black Pepper: To season the dish to perfection.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Garlic

In a large pot, heat a teaspoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!

2. Build the Base

Pour in the chicken broth and milk, then bring the mixture to a boil. This will serve as the base for your creamy sauce.

3. Cook the Tortellini

Add the cheese tortellini to the boiling liquid and cook for 2 minutes. If you’re using frozen tortellini, you may need to add an extra minute or two—just check the package instructions.

4. Add the Broccoli

Toss in the chopped broccoli and continue cooking for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. The broccoli should turn bright green and tender-crisp by the end of this step.

5. Melt the Cheese

Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. This step transforms the liquid into a rich, creamy sauce that coats every bite.

6. Add the Chicken

Stir in the cooked chicken, allowing it to warm through in the sauce.

7. Season and Serve

Taste your dish and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve immediately with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan on top for that finishing touch of cheesy goodness.

Tips for Success

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli adds a delightful crunch and vibrant color to this dish. If you’re short on time, frozen broccoli can work too—just thaw it beforehand.
Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Cheese tortellini cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid mushy pasta.
Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own. It’s flavorful and perfectly tender!
Adjust Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for an extra minute or two to thicken.

FAQs About Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini

Q: Can I use frozen tortellini?

A: Absolutely! Just keep in mind that frozen tortellini may take an extra minute or two to cook. Be sure to check the package instructions for guidance.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can make it ahead of time and store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to revive the creamy sauce.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?

A: While cheese tortellini is ideal for this recipe, you can substitute it with another pasta like penne or farfalle if needed. However, you’ll miss out on that delightful cheese-filled center!

Q: Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

A: To lighten things up, use reduced-fat cream cheese and milk, and opt for whole wheat tortellini if available. You can also add more veggies like spinach or peas for extra nutrients.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Cream-based sauces don’t always freeze well as they can separate when reheated. For best results, enjoy this dish fresh or within a few days of cooking.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini is comfort food at its finest—cheesy, creamy, and packed with flavor in every bite. With simple ingredients and just 20 minutes of cook time, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try tonight—you won’t regret it!

So grab your pot and get cooking; your family is going to thank you for this one!