Chicken Pesto Tortellini

Name: Chicken Pesto Tortellini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 24 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz cheese tortellini; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 12 oz boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces); 1/2 cup basil pesto; 1 1/2 cups halved grape tomatoes; 1/4 cup chopped basil; Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste)

Published: July 4, 2025

by Lucille

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 24 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Family Favorite: With cheesy tortellini and flavorful pesto, kids and adults alike will love this dish.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily switch up the protein or add seasonal vegetables to suit your taste.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is needed since the main ingredients cook together in one pot.
Deliciously Satisfying: Packed with protein and flavor, this meal keeps everyone full and happy.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Chicken Pesto Tortellini is straightforward with the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Serving bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for boiling the tortellini quickly and efficiently.
Colander: Perfect for draining excess water from the cooked tortellini without losing any pasta.
Large skillet: Ideal for cooking chicken evenly while allowing space for other ingredients.

Ingredients

You only need six ingredients to make this easy and cheesy chicken tortellini dinner. It is a family favorite!

For the Tortellini

12 oz cheese tortellini

For the Chicken

1 tablespoon olive oil
12 oz boneless skinless chicken breasts, (cut into bite-size pieces)

For the Sauce

1/2 cup basil pesto

For the Vegetables

1 1/2 cups halved grape tomatoes

For Garnish

1/4 cup chopped basil
kosher salt and black pepper, (to taste)
For garnish: fresh basil and Parmesan cheese, (optional)

How to Make Chicken Pesto Tortellini

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
When finished cooking, drain the tortellini in a colander.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken pieces to the pan, seasoning them with kosher salt and black pepper.
Cook while stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, pour in the cooked tortellini.
Add in cooked chicken pieces along with halved grape tomatoes.
Gently stir in basil pesto until everything is well-coated.

Step 4: Final Touches

Add freshly chopped basil to the mixture.
Season with salt and black pepper as needed.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Pesto Tortellini, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Chicken Pesto Tortellini

Chicken Pesto Tortellini is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate its flavors and make for a delightful meal.

With Fresh Salad

Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes adds freshness.
Caesar Salad: The creaminess of Caesar dressing complements the pesto beautifully.

With Garlic Bread

Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted baguette slices topped with garlic butter bring a crunchy contrast.
Cheesy Garlic Knots: Doughy knots brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with cheese add an indulgent touch.

As a Pasta Bowl

Pasta Bowl Presentation: Serve the Chicken Pesto Tortellini in deep bowls, topped with extra basil and Parmesan for a restaurant-style look.
Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and flavor.

How to Perfect Chicken Pesto Tortellini

Perfecting Chicken Pesto Tortellini involves attention to detail and some cooking tips. Here are some suggestions to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and high-quality pesto will enhance the overall flavor profile.
Cook Tortellini Al Dente: Follow package instructions closely to avoid mushy pasta; it should have a slight bite.
Season Well: Don’t skip on salt and pepper. Season each component (chicken, pasta, and pesto) for maximum flavor.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese for varied flavors and textures.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Pesto Tortellini

To round out your meal, consider serving some delightful side dishes alongside your Chicken Pesto Tortellini. These sides will complement the main dish perfectly.

Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Tender broccoli florets roasted with garlic provide a healthy crunch.
Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar create a refreshing appetizer.
Italian Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a flavorful start to your meal.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus spears bring an earthy taste that pairs well with pesto.
Creamy Spinach Dip: Serve this dip warm with breadsticks or tortilla chips for a rich side option.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Pesto Tortellini can be simple, but some common pitfalls can lead to less tasty results. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

Overcooking the Tortellini: Cooking the tortellini for too long can make it mushy. Always follow the package instructions for timing to achieve the perfect texture.
Underseasoning the Chicken: Not seasoning the chicken properly can result in bland flavor. Make sure to generously season with salt and black pepper before cooking.
Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using jarred pesto and not adding fresh basil or tomatoes can dull the dish’s brightness. Always opt for fresh ingredients when possible to enhance flavors.
Crowding the Skillet: Adding too much chicken at once can lower the skillet’s temperature, causing steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary for evenly cooked chicken.
Not Mixing Thoroughly: Failing to thoroughly mix the pesto with tortellini and chicken can lead to uneven flavors. Gently stir until everything is well coated for a harmonious taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Chicken Pesto Tortellini will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Pesto Tortellini

You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months.
Use freezer-safe containers or bags for best results.
To avoid freezer burn, remove as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating Chicken Pesto Tortellini

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tortellini in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or olive oil, and stir until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Pesto Tortellini?

Chicken Pesto Tortellini is a quick and easy dinner that combines cheese tortellini, cooked chicken, fresh tomatoes, and basil pesto into a delicious dish perfect for families.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, using store-bought pesto is perfectly fine. However, making your own pesto can elevate the flavors of your Chicken Pesto Tortellini even more!

How do I customize my Chicken Pesto Tortellini?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or substitute grilled shrimp for chicken. This flexibility makes it easy to adapt based on your preferences!

How long does it take to make Chicken Pesto Tortellini?

The total time to prepare this dish is about 24 minutes, making it a quick meal option on busy nights.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Pesto Tortellini is not only easy to prepare but also allows room for customization. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, this dish appeals to all ages. Feel free to experiment with additional veggies or proteins to make it your own!

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