Irresistible Chicken Tortellini Recipe with Broccoli in 30 Minutes

Name: Irresistible Chicken Tortellini Recipe with Broccoli in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 ounces cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen); 2 cups cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftover grilled/baked chicken); 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen); 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Posted on October 12, 2025

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There’s something magical about a dish that comes together in just 30 minutes yet feels like it took hours of effort. This irresistible chicken tortellini recipe with broccoli has quickly become one of my go-to meals for busy weeknights. Creamy, comforting, and packed with veggies, it’s the kind of meal that ticks every box: flavor, ease, and nutrition. Trust me, once you’ve tried it, you’ll want to make this a regular in your dinner rotation!

I first stumbled upon this recipe during a hectic evening when my fridge was looking sparse. With some leftover rotisserie chicken, a bag of frozen tortellini, and a head of broccoli, I decided to wing it—and the result was pure magic. Over time, I’ve tweaked and perfected it, and honestly, it’s now even better than I ever imagined. The combination of tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and crisp broccoli in a creamy sauce… it’s comfort food at its finest.

Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, impressing dinner guests, or just craving something hearty and satisfying, this chicken tortellini with broccoli has your back. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for reasons to fall head over heels for this recipe, let me count the ways:

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for those nights when you need dinner fast but still want something homemade.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this recipe! The cheesy tortellini and creamy sauce make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Simple Ingredients: No need for fancy items—you likely already have everything in your fridge or pantry.
Balanced Meal: It’s packed with protein, carbs, and veggies, making it a complete meal in one dish.
Versatile: Customize it with your favorite veggies, swap the chicken for shrimp, or adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for cozy family dinners, meal prep, or even casual entertaining.

What truly sets this recipe apart is its simplicity paired with its irresistible flavor. You don’t have to be a master chef to whip this up, yet it tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The creamy garlic sauce perfectly coats the tortellini and broccoli while the chicken adds a hearty touch. It’s the kind of dish that makes you savor every bite.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This chicken tortellini recipe uses wholesome, straightforward ingredients to create bold flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cheese Tortellini: Fresh or frozen works great—choose a variety stuffed with ricotta or parmesan for the best flavor.
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver here, but you can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken.
Broccoli Florets: Fresh or frozen broccoli works, but fresh gives a slightly better texture.
Heavy Cream: This is the base for the sauce, creating a luscious, creamy texture.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds depth and a subtle kick to the sauce.
Butter: Unsalted is best, as you can control the saltiness of the dish.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan for maximum flavor—it’s the star of the creamy sauce.
Salt and Pepper: For seasoning. Adjust to taste.
Olive Oil: A little oil helps sauté the broccoli and garlic to perfection.

Optional additions include red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or fresh herbs like parsley for garnish. Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own!

Equipment Needed

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this recipe to life:

Large Pot: For boiling the tortellini and broccoli.
Skillet: A medium or large skillet works for sautéing the garlic and chicken and preparing the sauce.
Colander: To drain the tortellini and broccoli.
Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring the sauce and combining ingredients.
Knife: For chopping broccoli and slicing chicken if not pre-cut.

If you don’t have a skillet, a non-stick pan works as a great alternative. And if you’re short on pots, you can cook the broccoli first, set it aside, and reuse the pot for the tortellini.

Preparation Method

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the ultimate chicken tortellini with broccoli:

Boil the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually 3-5 minutes. In the last 2 minutes of boiling, toss in the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the Chicken: Stir in the cooked chicken and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing it to warm through.
Prepare the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and add the butter. Once melted, pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
Add Parmesan Cheese: Gradually sprinkle in the parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine: Add the cooked tortellini and broccoli to the skillet. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the sauce coats every bite.
Serve: Transfer to plates or a serving dish, and garnish with extra parmesan cheese or fresh parsley if desired.

Pro tip: If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up. And don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning as you go!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to ensure your chicken tortellini with broccoli turns out perfectly every time:

Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Fresh tortellini cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent a mushy texture.
Blanch the Broccoli: Cooking it for just a couple of minutes keeps it vibrant and slightly crisp—no soggy broccoli here!
Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well, so always go for freshly grated.
Season Gradually: Taste as you go to avoid over-salting. Parmesan adds saltiness, so you may need less than you think.
Save Pasta Water: The starchy water can be used to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.

And if you’re short on time, you can use frozen broccoli florets—they cook up quickly and taste great in this dish.

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to adapt it:

Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
Low-Carb Option: Swap tortellini for zucchini noodles or cauliflower gnocchi.
Add Spice: Stir in red pepper flakes or drizzle a little hot sauce for a kick.
Seasonal Veggies: In summer, swap broccoli for asparagus or green beans. In fall, try adding roasted butternut squash.
Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free parmesan substitute.

Personally, I’ve experimented with adding sun-dried tomatoes, and let me tell you—it takes the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Here’s how to serve, store, and enjoy this dish:

Serving: Serve warm, garnished with extra parmesan or fresh parsley. Pair it with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Heat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving as the tortellini can get rubbery.
Freezing: While the sauce freezes well, tortellini can become mushy. If freezing, cook the tortellini fresh when reheating.

One thing I love is how the flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even tastier!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This chicken tortellini recipe is not only delicious but packs in some key nutrients:

Protein: The chicken and tortellini provide a hearty dose of protein, perfect for keeping you full.
Fiber & Vitamins: Broccoli adds fiber, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients.
Calcium: Parmesan cheese contributes to your daily calcium intake.

If you’re watching calories, you can lighten it up by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or reducing the amount of parmesan.

Conclusion

This irresistible chicken tortellini with broccoli is the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s fast, flavorful, and effortlessly comforting—a true weeknight hero. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a table full of hungry loved ones, you’ll love how simple yet satisfying this dish is.

Give it a try, and don’t be afraid to make it your own—add your favorite veggies, adjust the seasoning, or even swap the chicken for shrimp. I can’t wait to hear how you customize it!

If you make this recipe, let me know in the comments below! Share your tweaks, tips, and photos—I’d love to see how it turns out. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works perfectly for this recipe. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time.

What can I substitute for broccoli?

You can use asparagus, green beans, or even spinach as a substitute. Feel free to experiment with your favorite veggies!

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Reheat gently and cook the tortellini fresh for best results.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure all other ingredients, like parmesan and heavy cream, are certified gluten-free.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving to preserve the texture of the tortellini.

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