Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

This Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and vibrant vegetables. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, offering a burst of Mediterranean flavors in under 40 minutes. The combination of basil pesto and fresh veggies makes this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Veggies
• For the Pasta
• For the Sauce
• How to Make Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies
• Step 1: Cook the Chicken
• Step 2: Cook the Asparagus
• Step 3: Cook the Tortellini
• Step 4: Combine Chicken, Tortellini, and Pesto
• Step 5: Assemble and Serve
• How to Serve Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies
• Pair with Garlic Bread
• Add a Fresh Salad
• Include Grated Parmesan
• Serve with Lemon Wedges
• Enjoy with White Wine
• Garnish with Fresh Basil
• How to Perfect Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies
• Best Side Dishes for Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies
• Reheating Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different vegetables in Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies?
• How long does it take to make Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies?
• Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?
• What can I serve with Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies?
• Is Pesto Chicken Tortellini healthy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This meal comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: Packed with the rich taste of basil pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and colorful veggies, each bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes to customize the dish to your liking.
• Healthy Option: Loaded with protein from the chicken and fiber from the vegetables, it’s a nutritious choice for dinner.
• Great for Meal Prep: This dish keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create this wonderful dish efficiently, you’ll need a few essential tools ready at hand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cooking utensils (spatula or wooden spoon)
• Pot for boiling tortellini
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking chicken and veggies evenly while maximizing surface area for flavor development.
• Pot for boiling tortellini: Essential for perfectly cooking your pasta according to package instructions, ensuring it’s al dente.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, sliced into strips
• Salt, to taste

For the Veggies

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained of oil and chopped
• 1 lb asparagus, ends trimmed and cut in half
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (yellow and red), halved

For the Pasta

• 1 cup tortellini (uncooked)

For the Sauce

• ¼ cup basil pesto (or more, to taste)

How to Make Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken thighs seasoned with salt and ¼ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked. Remove the chicken and sun-dried tomatoes from the skillet while leaving the oil behind.

Step 2: Cook the Asparagus

In the same skillet, add the asparagus seasoned generously with salt along with the remaining ¼ cup of sun-dried tomatoes. Cook over medium heat for about 5-10 minutes until tender yet crisp. Once done, remove the asparagus to a serving plate.

Step 3: Cook the Tortellini

While cooking asparagus, prepare tortellini according to package instructions. Drain well once cooked and set aside.

Step 4: Combine Chicken, Tortellini, and Pesto

Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Add basil pesto and stir until coated evenly. Heat on low-medium for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Then add cooked tortellini along with halved cherry tomatoes to combine everything well. You can add more pesto if desired.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Place chicken, tortellini, cherry tomatoes on a serving plate alongside asparagus. Adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.

Enjoy your delicious Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies!

How to Serve Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

This colorful dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful mix of flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Serve warm garlic bread alongside your pesto chicken tortellini for a classic Italian touch. The crispy texture complements the creamy pesto sauce beautifully.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A light, crisp salad can balance the richness of the dish. Consider a simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette to add freshness.

Include Grated Parmesan

• Offer freshly grated Parmesan cheese at the table. This extra touch elevates the dish and adds a savory flavor that pairs well with the basil pesto.

Serve with Lemon Wedges

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors in this dish. Provide lemon wedges for guests to add their desired amount.

Enjoy with White Wine

• A chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the Mediterranean flavors of the meal perfectly.

Garnish with Fresh Basil

• Top each serving with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish. It not only looks appealing but also enhances the flavor profile.

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How to Perfect Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

Making this dish is straightforward, but these tips will help you achieve perfection every time.

• Use high-quality pesto: The flavor of your basil pesto greatly influences the overall taste. Opt for fresh or premium store-bought options.

• Cook tortellini al dente: Follow package instructions closely to ensure your tortellini maintains a slight bite, enhancing texture in your dish.

• Season throughout: Don’t forget to season each component of your meal—chicken, veggies, and tortellini—to develop rich flavors.

• Experiment with veggies: Feel free to swap out asparagus or cherry tomatoes for your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for variety.

• Serve immediately: To enjoy optimal flavor and texture, serve this dish right after cooking while it’s still warm and fresh.

Best Side Dishes for Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

Pairing side dishes can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Caprese Salad – Made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction; it’s refreshing and complements the main dish well.

2. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized offers additional textures and flavors that match beautifully with the main course.

3. Grilled Zucchini – Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini is simple yet effective and provides a lovely contrast to the richness of pesto chicken tortellini.

4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs well with savory dishes.

5. Mediterranean Couscous – Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs, olives, and feta cheese adds a zesty touch that enhances this Mediterranean-inspired meal.

6. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while keeping things healthy and vibrant on the plate.

7. Antipasto Platter – A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables creates an enjoyable starter or side that excites the palate before diving into your main course.

8. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter is a classic summer pairing that lends sweetness to balance out savory dishes like pesto chicken tortellini.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies can be simple, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Ignoring Cooking Times: Each ingredient has its own cooking time. Make sure to follow the instructions to avoid overcooking or undercooking.
• Using Low-Quality Pesto: A good pesto can elevate your dish. Opt for high-quality store-bought or fresh homemade pesto for the best flavor.
• Skipping Salt: Salt enhances the flavors of your ingredients. Don’t forget to season each component while cooking.
• Not Prepping Ingredients: Take the time to prep all ingredients before you start cooking. This makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
• Overloading the Skillet: If your skillet is too crowded, ingredients may steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• item Refrigerate for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

• item Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• item Best used within 2 months for best taste and quality.

Reheating Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally until thoroughly heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies.

Can I use different vegetables in Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies?

Yes! Feel free to swap asparagus with green beans, zucchini, or broccoli based on your preference.

How long does it take to make Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies?

The total time is about 40 minutes, including preparation and cooking.

Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just follow the package instructions for cooking frozen tortellini before adding them to your dish.

What can I serve with Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies?

Serve it with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Is Pesto Chicken Tortellini healthy?

With lean chicken, colorful veggies, and whole-grain tortellini options available, this dish can be part of a balanced diet!

Final Thoughts

Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies is a vibrant meal that combines rich flavors with nutritious ingredients. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different vegetables or proteins according to your taste preferences. Give this delightful dish a try; you won’t be disappointed!