This one-pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a quick and comforting weeknight meal featuring tender chicken, plump tortellini, and vibrant broccoli enveloped in a rich garlic parmesan sauce, all ready in under 30 minutes.
Servings 4servings
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Ingredients
Protein
1poundboneless, skinless chicken breastDiced into 1-inch cubes
Pasta
2cupscheese tortelliniFresh or frozen
Vegetable
2cupsbroccoli floretsCut into bite-sized pieces
Aromatics
3-4clovesgarlic, mincedUse fresh garlic for best flavor
2tablespoonsolive oilExtra virgin for best quality
Sauce Foundation
½cupfreshly grated Parmesan cheeseGrate from a wedge for best texture
Method
Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli to Perfection
Fill a large pot with 4 quarts of water and bring to a rolling boil. Add 1-2 tablespoons of salt.
Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions, subtracting one minute from the total time.
In the final 2 minutes of the tortellini's cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the pot.
Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the tortellini and broccoli and set aside.
Building the Flavor Base in the Skillet
Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the seasoned chicken dry and add to the hot pan in a single layer. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the chicken, reduce heat to medium-low, add the minced garlic, and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
Bringing the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Together
Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the drained tortellini and broccoli. Toss gently.
Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over everything. Stir continuously until melted.
Adjust the sauce's consistency by adding reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring until desired creaminess is achieved.
Season with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to taste. Serve immediately.
For best results, ensure chicken is dry before searing and always grate your own cheese for a smoother sauce. You can customize this recipe by swapping proteins or adding other vegetables.