Looking for a quick, flavorful, and easy one-pan dinner? Look no further than this Pesto Chicken Tortellini – a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken, cheesy tortellini, and an array of vibrant vegetables, all coated in a rich and aromatic basil pesto sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors right into your home kitchen in just 30 minutes. Imagine plating up a meal that not only looks stunning but is also bursting with nutrients, making it an ideal solution for both dinner parties and cozy family meals.
This Mediterranean-inspired one-pan pasta dish is a celebration of flavor. With the added goodness of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh cherry tomatoes, and tender asparagus, each bite delivers a taste of summer. But it’s not only about the flavors; this dish emphasizes simplicity and ease. Minimal prep and cleanup time mean you can whip up an impressive dish without the stress or mess. Whether you are meal prepping or enjoying a comforting dinner with loved ones, this Pesto Chicken Tortellini will soon become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Pesto Chicken Tortellini
- Quick and Easy: ready in 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pan Meal: minimizes cleanup and cooking time.
- Customizable: easily adjust ingredients to suit dietary preferences or pantry availability.
- Flavor Explosion: rich basil pesto combined with fresh vegetables and tender chicken creates a delicious dish.
- Healthy Ingredients: loaded with nutrients from veggies and lean protein.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this mouthwatering Pesto Chicken Tortellini recipe, it’s important to ensure your kitchen is prepped for success. Start by gathering all your ingredients, which helps streamline the cooking process. Since this dish is relatively quick, having everything within reach will prevent any last-minute scrambling.
Tools you’ll need include a large skillet or frying pan, a wooden spoon, a cutting board, and a sharp knife for chopping your veggies and chicken. For cooking the tortellini, ensure you have a pot or a saucepan ready, as it will also hold your chicken broth for simmering. If you prefer a non-stick skillet, it will help to further reduce the chance of food sticking during cooking. Sensitive to clutter? Having a trash bowl nearby can make disposing of scraps easier as you go.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 (9 oz) package of cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth (or water)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Begin your cooking adventure by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced chicken thighs to the pan. Season the chicken evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor profile. Sauté the chicken for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are golden brown and fully cooked through, achieving a nice sear on the outside. Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, the magic continues. You’ll want to add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, asparagus pieces, and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly while maintaining their vibrant color. This brief cooking time helps keep their fresh taste and texture, which complements the creamy pasta wonderfully.
Step 3: Boil the Tortellini
Once the veggies are tender, pour in the chicken broth and raise the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. The broth will infuse the vegetables with its savory flavor, making every bite delectable. Now, it’s time to add the cheese tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 4-5 minutes, until the tortellini are tender and cooked through. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking together!
Step 4: Combine Everything
After the tortellini are perfectly cooked, return the sautéed chicken to the skillet. Pour in the basil pesto, ensuring that every ingredient is coated in its delicious, creamy goodness. Gently fold the ingredients together with a wooden spoon, allowing the pesto sauce to envelop the chicken, tortellini, and veggies. Just before serving, sprinkle the dish with grated Parmesan cheese, mixing it well to melt and create a cheesy topping.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Once everything is beautifully combined, remove the pan from heat and let it rest for a minute. This brief pause allows the flavors to meld perfectly. Serve the Pesto Chicken Tortellini warm, garnishing with fresh basil leaves or additional Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of indulgence. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Variations
- Protein: Feel free to swap the chicken thighs for juicy grilled chicken breast for a lighter version. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with hearty mushrooms or chickpeas for added protein.
- Vegetables: Make this recipe your own by using a variety of seasonal veggies: zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach work wonderfully.
- Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Cooking Notes
- Be mindful of the cooking time for the tortellini; overcooking can result in a mushy texture. Cook to the package instructions for the best results.
- If using leftovers, reheat in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth to help retain moisture.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this dish with a light side salad drizzled with vinaigrette for a refreshing complement.
- Serve alongside garlic bread for an added indulgent touch.
Tips
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked chicken strips if you’re in a rush, making it even quicker to prepare.
- For a creamy twist, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the pesto for a richer sauce.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 520 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
What can I use instead of basil pesto?
If you don’t have basil pesto, you can substitute it with sun-dried tomato pesto or make a homemade version using fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil.
Can I use frozen tortellini instead?
Yes, you can use frozen cheese tortellini; just cook them according to package instructions, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini or replace them with spiralized zucchini noodles.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion
This Pesto Chicken Tortellini is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with vibrant flavors and comforting textures. With its quick preparation time and easy clean-up, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. You can switch up the ingredients to make this dish your own, ensuring there’s something for everyone at the table. We invite you to give it a try and delight in the incredible taste it offers. Remember to share your variations or let us know how it turned out in the comments below!
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Pesto Chicken Tortellini
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Pesto Chicken Tortellini is a delicious blend of flavors, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 (9 oz) package of cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth (or water)
Instructions
- Begin your cooking adventure by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat…
- In the same skillet, the magic continues…
- Once the veggies are tender, pour in the chicken broth…
- After the tortellini are perfectly cooked, return the sautéed chicken to the skillet…
- Once everything is beautifully combined, remove the pan from heat and let it rest…
Notes
Be mindful of the cooking time for the tortellini; overcooking can result in a mushy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 30 g