This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini is creamy, cheesy, and built for busy nights when you want something warm and satisfying without fuss. The tortellini gives pillowy bites, the broccoli adds a fresh pop, and the sauce is rich and smooth thanks to cream cheese and Parmesan. It’s the kind of meal that makes the kitchen smell like home and puts smiles around the table.
If you like easy tortellini dinners, try this cheesy baked tortellini casserole with meat sauce for another family-friendly option. Top reasons to make this tonight: it’s quick, uses simple ingredients, and the whole family usually asks for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in about 30 minutes
- Uses simple pantry and fridge staples
- Kid-friendly and filling
- Makes a great leftover lunch or easy meal prep
Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 (20 ounce) package cheese tortellini
- 3 cups fresh broccoli, roughly chopped
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, at room temperature or softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste (for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini)
Step-by-Step Instructions of Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the minced garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and milk, and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the cream cheese until smooth and well combined.
- Add the tortellini and chopped broccoli to the skillet; cook according to tortellini package directions (usually 7–9 minutes) until tender.
- Fold in the diced cooked chicken and grated Parmesan; stir until heated through and creamy.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or a pinch of black pepper if desired.
Tips for Success
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest sauce.
- Chop the broccoli small so it cooks at the same rate as the tortellini.
- Stir often after adding tortellini to prevent sticking and to keep the sauce smooth.
- Taste and adjust salt at the end Parmesan adds a salty punch.
Substitutions & Variations of Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini
To Make It Vegan/Gluten-Free:
- Vegan: Use dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based milk; swap cheese tortellini for a vegan-filled tortellini or use chickpea pasta tortellini.
- Gluten-free: Use a certified gluten-free tortellini and check labels on broth and cream cheese.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Stir in a spoonful of pesto for a herbal twist.
- Swap broccoli for spinach or peas for a different veg mix.
- Use Italian sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken for flavor changes.
Storage Instructions of Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini
Refrigerator:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Freezer:
- This dish is best frozen without the cream cheese sauce mixed in; freeze cooked tortellini and chicken separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat, then stir in fresh cream cheese and Parmesan.
Make-Ahead:
- Cook the chicken and chop broccoli ahead of time. Make the sauce and assemble right before cooking the tortellini for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) of Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes add frozen broccoli a few minutes earlier and cook a bit longer so it thaws and heats through.
Can I make this with uncooked chicken?
You can, but dice it small and cook it first in the skillet until no longer pink before adding the liquids.
How can I make the sauce thinner or thicker?
Thin it with a splash of milk or chicken broth. Thicken by simmering a little longer or adding a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini is a simple, comforting dish that fits into hectic evenings while still feeling homemade and special. It’s fast, forgiving, and a great way to use leftover chicken. If this recipe becomes a weeknight favorite, please leave a comment and a star rating so others can find it too your feedback helps a busy cook like you and me keep great meals on the table.
Print
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini
A creamy and cheesy tortellini dish with broccoli and chicken, perfect for busy nights.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 (20 ounce) package cheese tortellini
- 3 cups fresh broccoli, roughly chopped
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the minced garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and milk, and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the cream cheese until smooth and well combined.
- Add the tortellini and chopped broccoli to the skillet; cook according to tortellini package directions (usually 7–9 minutes) until tender.
- Fold in the diced cooked chicken and grated Parmesan; stir until heated through and creamy.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or a pinch of black pepper if desired.
Notes
Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: None