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#### 1. Cook the Tortellini
– Start by cooking the **tortellini** according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside. Save about 1/2 cup of pasta water in case you need it to adjust the sauce later.
#### 2. Sauté the Chicken
– While the tortellini cooks, heat **olive oil** in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
– Add the **bite-sized chicken pieces** to the skillet and season with **salt**, **pepper**, and **Italian seasoning** (if using).
– Cook the chicken for about **5-7 minutes**, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
#### 4. Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
– Add the minced **garlic** to the same skillet and sauté for **1-2 minutes** until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
– Pour in the **chicken broth** and let it simmer for **2 minutes** to deglaze the pan and pick up any flavorful bits from the chicken and garlic.
– Add the **heavy cream** and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about **3-4 minutes** until it starts to thicken.
#### 5. Combine Everything
– Once the sauce has thickened, add the **Parmesan cheese** and stir until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
– Return the cooked **chicken**, **broccoli**, and **tortellini** to the skillet and gently toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
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1. **Make it Lighter**: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream, although the sauce may be a bit less rich.
2. **Add More Veggies**: Feel free to add other vegetables like **spinach**, **mushrooms**, or **sun-dried tomatoes** to make the dish even more colorful and nutritious.
3. **Cook the Chicken in Batches**: If you’re making a double batch, consider cooking the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause it to steam rather than brown.
4. **Use Frozen Tortellini**: If you don’t have access to fresh tortellini, frozen works just as well. Just cook it according to the package instructions and proceed with the recipe.
### Why This Dish Stands Out
**Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli** is the perfect comfort food that’s both indulgent and balanced. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and flavorful tortellini creates a satisfying and wholesome meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s both family-friendly and impressive enough for guests. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your preferences, and it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
### Conclusion
If you’re looking for a meal that combines convenience with comfort, look no further than **Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli**. This dish is rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making it a perfect option for any night of the week. With its creamy sauce, hearty chicken, and nutritious vegetables, it’s a satisfying dinner that everyone will love. Try it out today and enjoy a meal that’s both simple and indulgent!
