Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini: 1 Dish Wonder

Name: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini: 1 Dish Wonder
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped; 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen); 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 (20-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini; 1½ cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

by dorina alena

August 16, 2025

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Cheesy chicken broccoli tortellini has become my go-to for those nights when I crave something comforting and delicious but don’t have a lot of time. I remember the first time I made it – the aroma of garlic and simmering cream filled my kitchen, and my family practically lined up at the table before I even finished. This easy cheesy chicken broccoli tortellini is so creamy and satisfying, packed with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, all coated in a luscious cheese sauce. It’s a true weeknight wonder that you and your family will adore. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini

This dish is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. Here’s why it’s a winner:

Incredibly Flavorful: The creamy cheese sauce combined with tender chicken and fresh broccoli is pure comfort in a bowl.
Super Quick: You can whip up this quick cheesy chicken broccoli tortellini in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
One-Pot Wonder: Seriously, everything cooks in a single skillet, meaning less cleanup and more enjoyment. It truly is a one-pot cheesy chicken broccoli tortellini dream.
Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters love the familiar flavors of pasta, chicken, and cheese.
Versatile: Easily swap out the veggies or add a pinch of spice to tailor it to your family’s tastes.
Satisfying Meal: It’s a complete dinner that’s hearty enough to keep everyone full and happy.
Easy to Master: The simple steps make it perfect for beginner cooks or anyone needing a reliable go-to recipe.

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini Ingredients

Gathering these simple cheesy chicken broccoli tortellini ingredients is the first step to a fantastic meal. I’ve found that using specific ingredients really makes a difference in the final dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing and building flavor
2 cups cooked chicken, chopped – rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen) – fresh gives a brighter flavor, but frozen works perfectly well
1 clove garlic, minced – essential for that savory aroma
1 (20-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini – the star of the show, bringing creamy goodness
1½ cups chicken broth – forms the base of our creamy sauce
1 cup heavy cream – for that rich, decadent texture
1 teaspoon onion powder – adds a subtle depth of flavor
1 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the other tastes
½ teaspoon black pepper – for a touch of warmth
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – melts into a gooey, delicious sauce
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty finish

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini

Let’s dive into making this deliciously simple dish! You’re going to love how easy it is to create this creamy pasta bake. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.

Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped and 1 clove garlic, minced. Sauté for about 2–3 minutes until the chicken is warmed through and the garlic is fragrant. This step really wakes up the flavors.
Step 2: Now, add the star of our dish: the 1 (20-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini, and the 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen) directly into the skillet.
Step 3: Pour in 1½ cups chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Give everything a gentle stir to coat the tortellini and broccoli.
Step 4: Bring the mixture to a light simmer. Once it’s bubbling gently, cover the skillet. Let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the tortellini are tender and the broccoli is perfectly cooked, which is a key part of how to make cheesy chicken broccoli tortellini.
Step 5: Reduce the heat to low. This is where the magic happens for our easy cheesy chicken broccoli tortellini. Stir in the 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese and ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and creates a smooth, creamy sauce that coats every piece.
Step 6: Serve this delightful cheesy tortellini with chicken and broccoli immediately. It’s best enjoyed hot and creamy!

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Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini

Want to elevate your pasta game? These tips will guarantee you the best cheesy chicken broccoli tortellini every single time. I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make a big difference in texture and flavor.

Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: They’ll continue to cook in the sauce, so aim for al dente.
Use Quality Cheese: Shredding your own cheddar and Parmesan from blocks will give you a far creamier, more flavorful sauce than pre-shredded. For more on cheese, check out this guide.
Adjust Simmer Time: If your broccoli isn’t tender enough, just give it a few more minutes of simmering before adding the cheese.
Taste and Season: Always taste your sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini?

The secret to a perfect creamy chicken broccoli tortellini bake is the combination of heavy cream and cheese, creating a rich sauce that coats everything beautifully. Also, using pre-cooked chicken and refrigerated tortellini makes it incredibly fast! For more cooking tips, you can visit our contact page.

Can I make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini ahead of time?

You can definitely prep the ingredients ahead. Cook the chicken, chop the broccoli, and mince the garlic. However, for the best texture, I recommend assembling and cooking the dish just before serving. You can find more information on our privacy policy regarding food preparation.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini?

A common pitfall is overcooking the tortellini, leading to a mushy texture. Also, resist the urge to boil the sauce vigorously after adding cheese, as it can cause the sauce to break or become oily. For more on culinary techniques, see terms and conditions.

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Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini

This hearty pasta dish is a meal in itself, but I love pairing it with a few simple sides to round out the meal. Thinking about what to serve with chicken broccoli tortellini is easy because it’s so versatile!

Crusty Bread: A warm baguette or some garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce. It’s a classic pairing for a reason!
Simple Green Salad: A crisp, fresh salad with a light vinaigrette offers a lovely contrast to the richness of the tortellini. Think mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
Roasted Vegetables: While broccoli is already in the dish, a side of roasted asparagus or bell peppers can add another layer of flavor and texture. For tips on roasting vegetables, you can check out this guide.

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini

When you’re enjoying this delightful dish, it’s helpful to know what you’re getting. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this cheesy tortellini chicken broccoli dinner:

Calories: 520
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 780mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of chicken and cheese you choose for your cheesy chicken broccoli tortellini.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini

Even though this dish is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers of this delicious cheesy chicken broccoli tortellini are fantastic! Once it has cooled down a bit, transfer any remaining pasta into an airtight container. It should keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you find yourself with more than you can eat in a few days, you can freeze portions of this chicken broccoli tortellini casserole for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn. You can learn more about proper food storage from our affiliate disclaimer.

Reheating is simple. For refrigerated leftovers, I usually pop them back into a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce. You can also microwave it, stirring halfway through. If reheating from frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight first, then use the skillet or microwave method. Be a little patient, and you’ll have a creamy, delicious meal again!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini

Can I use different pasta shapes instead of tortellini?

Absolutely! While tortellini adds a lovely cheesy surprise, you can substitute it with penne, rotini, or farfalle. Just be sure to cook them according to package directions before adding them to the sauce, as they won’t cook directly in the skillet like refrigerated tortellini.

How can I make this a creamy tortellini chicken broccoli casserole?

To transform this into a casserole, after step 5, transfer the entire mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with a little extra cheese and perhaps some breadcrumbs. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top. This turns our stovetop dish into a wonderful baked cheesy chicken broccoli tortellini.

Is this recipe considered healthy cheesy chicken broccoli tortellini?

While it’s wonderfully comforting, this recipe is fairly rich due to the heavy cream and cheese. For a healthier twist, you could use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream, reduce the amount of cheese slightly, or load it up with even more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. The broccoli and chicken do add good protein and fiber, though!

What if I don’t have pre-cooked chicken?

No problem! You can easily cook the chicken yourself. Dice about 1 pound of chicken breast or thighs, then sauté them in the skillet with a little olive oil until cooked through before adding the garlic. This adds an extra step but ensures you have fresh chicken in your pasta.

Variations of Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini You Can Try

This dish is so adaptable! I love experimenting with different flavors and methods. Here are a few ways to switch up your cheesy chicken broccoli tortellini:

Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the salt and pepper in step 3. The heat contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Add Different Veggies: Swap the broccoli for frozen peas, chopped spinach, or even diced zucchini. They all cook quickly and add great flavor and nutrients.
Healthier Twist: For a lighter version, try a healthy cheesy chicken broccoli tortellini by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or even a blend of milk and a touch of cream cheese. You could also use whole wheat tortellini.
Creamy Tortellini Chicken Broccoli Casserole: After cooking (step 5), transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly and golden.