Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini – The Ultimate 30-Minute Comfort Food Dinner
If you’re craving a cozy, creamy, and satisfying meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini is your answer. Loaded with juicy chicken, tender cheese-filled tortellini, crisp broccoli, and a rich, garlicky cream sauce, this one-pan wonder will become your new go-to dinner for busy nights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One skillet, minimal cleanup
- Packed with protein and veggies
- Kid-friendly and picky-eater approved
- Ultra cheesy and creamy
- Perfect for meal prep or leftovers
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 3–5 minutes for fresh, or 7–9 minutes for frozen). Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
Season the diced chicken with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sauté for about 5–7 minutes, until golden and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Broccoli and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in the mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it.
5. Combine Everything
Return the chicken and cooked tortellini to the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Let it simmer for 2–3 more minutes so the flavors meld together and the tortellini is heated through.
6. Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot, ideally with garlic bread or a fresh side salad.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Want it extra cheesy? Add more mozzarella or a handful of sharp cheddar.
- Make it lighter by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add crunch with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed croutons on top.
- Spice it up with more red pepper flakes or a pinch of smoked paprika.
- Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and double the broccoli or add mushrooms.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream and warm gently over low heat until creamy again. Avoid microwaving too long, as it may separate the sauce. Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~420 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini is the definition of comfort food—easy, creamy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is guaranteed to please.