Description
Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli
Ingredients:
300g cheese tortellini
2 chicken breasts, sliced
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini: Boil tortellini in salted water until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet, season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. Steam the Broccoli: Lightly steam the broccoli until vibrant green and tender.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic, add heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, and stir until creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Combine Everything: Toss tortellini and broccoli into the creamy sauce, then top with the cooked chicken slices.
6. Serve: Garnish with more Parmesan cheese and black pepper for extra flavor.
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof meal. Begin by preparing all ingredients: slice chicken, mince garlic, and separate broccoli into florets. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil for the tortellini. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken slices thoroughly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before adding to the hot pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and golden. Remove chicken and set aside. Add broccoli to a steamer basket over simmering water for 4-5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Cook tortellini according to package directions, then drain.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce. For a wine pairing, choose a crisp white like Pinot Grigio or a light Chardonnay. To garnish, add a final sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil along with the extra Parmesan and black pepper.
How-to Summary
To summarize, this one-pan creamy chicken tortellini comes together in four key stages: 1) Cook the pasta and steam the broccoli separately. 2) Sauté seasoned chicken until golden and set aside. 3) In the same pan, make the creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. 4) Combine all components in the sauce pan, toss gently, and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta? Yes, you can substitute the tortellini with fettuccine, penne, or gnocchi. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option. The sauce will be slightly less thick.
Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely. Sliced mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes would be excellent additions. Sauté mushrooms with the garlic, or stir in spinach at the very end.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce.
Is it necessary to steam the broccoli separately? Yes, to maintain its vibrant color and texture. Adding it raw to the sauce will release water and make the sauce runny.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Tortellini: Cook it just until al dente, as it will soften further when combined with the hot sauce.
- Crowding the Chicken: Avoid adding too many chicken slices to the pan at once, which steams them instead of creating a golden sear.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts much more smoothly and has superior flavor compared to the powdered shelf-stable kind.
- Letting the Sauce Boil: After adding the cream, keep the heat at a gentle simmer. A rolling boil can cause the sauce to separate or become greasy.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli is the ultimate comfort food that feels gourmet but is straightforward to prepare. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a restaurant-quality, creamy pasta dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests. Its versatility with ingredients and pairings makes it a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Enjoy your delicious creation!