Name: Garlic Parmesan 'Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli' Delicious Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb. cheese tortellini; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 tbsp. olive oil; 1 tsp. dried oregano; Salt and black pepper to taste; Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream for a creamy sauce

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Introduction

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to indulge in a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious? Look no further than our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli recipe. This captivating combination of flavors and textures is about to revolutionize your dinner routine. Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.

Ingredients List

1 lb. cheese tortellini
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tbsp. olive oil
1 tsp. dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream for a creamy sauce

For a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free tortellini or substitute with your favorite pasta shape. Vegetarians can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or diced tofu for a meatless version.

Timing

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli recipe takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare, which is 15% faster than the average pasta-based dish. The total cooking time, from start to finish, is about 50 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, typically 7-9 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a small cup of the cooking liquid in case you need to thin out the sauce later.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken and season with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Sauté the chicken until it’s cooked through and lightly browned, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets and a splash of water. Cover the skillet and let the broccoli steam for 3-5 minutes, or until it’s tender but still crisp.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the broccoli. Add the cooked tortellini and the Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until the cheese is melted and the ingredients are well combined. If the mixture seems dry, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta cooking liquid to achieve your desired consistency.

For an extra creamy twist, you can stir in the optional heavy cream at this stage, gently heating the mixture until it’s warmed through.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 426 per serving
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 582mg
Total Carbohydrates: 44g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Protein: 30g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make this dish even more nutritious, you can consider the following modifications:

Use whole-wheat or chickpea-based tortellini for added fiber and protein.
Substitute the heavy cream with low-fat or non-dairy milk alternatives, such as almond or oat milk.
Increase the broccoli content for a veggie-forward meal, or add other roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or zucchini.
For a dairy-free option, omit the Parmesan cheese and use a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or vegan cheese instead.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli dish is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep. Serve it warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor and visual appeal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli turns out perfectly every time, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Overcooking the tortellini: Keep a close eye on the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy or falling apart.
Burning the garlic: Sauté the garlic gently over medium heat to bring out its aroma without letting it turn bitter.
Overcrowding the skillet: Make sure to sauté the chicken and broccoli in batches, if necessary, to ensure even cooking and browning.
Skimping on the Parmesan: Don’t be shy with the cheese! The Parmesan adds a delightful savory and nutty flavor that really makes this dish shine.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results, reheat the dish gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out.

You can also prepare the components of the dish in advance. Cook the tortellini and store it in the fridge, sauté the chicken and broccoli separately, and then combine everything just before serving. This makes for a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Conclusion

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli recipe. This dish is a delightful fusion of creamy pasta, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli, all complemented by the savory notes of garlic and Parmesan. Whether you’re looking for a quick and nourishing weeknight meal or a showstopping dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. Don’t forget to share your experience with us in the comments below, and subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering culinary adventures!

FAQs

A: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can definitely use frozen broccoli florets in this recipe. Simply thaw them according to the package instructions before sautéing them in the skillet.

B: How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, swap the regular cheese tortellini for a gluten-free pasta or tortellini variety. You can also use spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash in place of the pasta for a low-carb option.

C: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?

Absolutely! While Parmesan cheese provides a delicious savory and nutty flavor, you can experiment with other hard, grated cheeses such as Asiago, Romano, or even a blend of Italian cheeses. Just be sure to adjust the amount to your personal taste preferences.

D: How can I make this dish more kid-friendly?

To make this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli more appealing to kids, you can try the following:

Chop the broccoli into smaller, bite-sized pieces
Reduce the amount of garlic or replace it with garlic powder
Offer the dish with a side of marinara or pesto sauce for dipping
Serve it with grated Parmesan cheese on the side, allowing kids to control the amount they want

E: Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can definitely prepare certain components of this dish in advance to make weeknight meal preparation a breeze. Cook the tortellini and store it in the fridge, sauté the chicken and broccoli separately, and then combine everything just before serving. This way, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal ready in no time.