Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

Chicken Tortellini smothered with basil pesto and served with lots of veggies is the perfect meal for any occasion. This Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies dish is not only vibrant and colorful but also deliciously satisfying. Packed with nutritious vegetables like asparagus and cherry tomatoes, it’s a Mediterranean-style dinner that brings flavor and health to your table. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe will impress everyone with its ease and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of basil pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh veggies creates a burst of Mediterranean flavors.
• Versatile Meal: You can easily customize this recipe by swapping out veggies or using different types of pasta.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from veggies, this dish is both filling and nutritious.
• Great Presentation: The colorful ingredients make for a beautiful presentation that looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups
• Serving plate

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A large skillet allows for even cooking of chicken and vegetables while providing enough space to stir everything together.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes chopping ingredients quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Veggies

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb chicken thighs (boneless and skinless, sliced into strips)
• salt
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained of oil, chopped)
• 1 lb asparagus (ends trimmed, cut in half)

For the Pesto Sauce

• 1/4 cup basil pesto (or use more)

For the Pasta

• 1 cup tortellini (uncooked)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet heat 2 tablespoons olive oil on medium heat.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add sliced chicken thighs seasoned with salt along with 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook everything on medium heat for 5-10 minutes. Turn chicken slices over a couple of times until completely cooked through.

Step 3: Remove Chicken

Remove the chicken and sun-dried tomatoes from the skillet, leaving the oil in.

Step 4: Cook Asparagus

Add asparagus to the same skillet. Season generously with salt. Cook on medium heat for 5-10 minutes until cooked through. Remove asparagus to a serving plate.

Step 5: Cook Tortellini

Cook tortellini according to package instructions, then drain.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Pesto

Add cooked chicken back to the skillet. Stir in basil pesto. Cook on low-medium heat until reheated, about 1 or 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 7: Mix In Tortellini and Tomatoes

Add cooked tortellini and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet with chicken. Stir until combined. Add more pesto if desired.

Step 8: Final Seasoning

Season with additional salt if needed.

Step 9: Serve

Transfer chicken, cherry tomatoes, and tortellini to the serving plate alongside asparagus.

Enjoy your flavorful Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies!

How to Serve Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

Serving Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies is a delightful experience, as it combines flavor and color beautifully. Here are some creative suggestions to enhance your meal.

Family Style

• Serve the dish in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This makes for a casual and enjoyable dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top with fresh basil or parsley for an extra touch of freshness. This adds flavor and enhances visual appeal.

Pair with Grated Cheese

• Offer grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese on the side. This allows guests to add their preferred amount of cheese to their plate.

Add a Splash of Lemon Juice

• Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the dish just before serving. The acidity brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing note.

How to Perfect Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

To make the best Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality pesto can elevate the dish significantly.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Follow package instructions carefully to achieve the perfect texture for your tortellini.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go, adding salt or pepper based on your preference for flavor.
• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to substitute or add other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added variety.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, reheating gently on low heat.
• Make Extra Pesto: Prepare additional pesto to use as a sauce or dip later; it’s versatile and keeps well.

Best Side Dishes for Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

Pairing side dishes with your Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies can enhance your meal even further. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements pasta dishes perfectly. Serve warm with butter and minced garlic.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing offers a nice contrast to the creamy pesto.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Mix seasonal veggies with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until caramelized for added depth of flavor.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter brings a refreshing sweetness that pairs well with this dish.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add freshness and acidity.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve spiralized zucchini lightly sautéed in olive oil alongside your main dish.
7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide crunch and balance against the richness of the tortellini.
8. Crispy Potato Wedges: Oven-baked wedges seasoned with herbs create a hearty side that everyone loves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies to the next level.

• Ignoring the Cooking Time: Always monitor the cooking time for chicken and veggies. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken and mushy vegetables. Stick to the suggested times for best results.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Failing to season your ingredients can result in bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper at each step of cooking for a well-balanced taste.
• Overloading on Pesto: While pesto adds great flavor, using too much can overpower other ingredients. Start with 1/4 cup and adjust according to your preference.
• Skipping the Pasta Cooking Instructions: Not following the tortellini package instructions can lead to undercooked or overcooked pasta. Pay attention to cooking time for perfect texture.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old vegetables diminishes the dish’s quality. Use fresh, colorful veggies for vibrant flavors and presentation.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; label with date.

Reheating Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies?

Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies is a Mediterranean-style dish featuring chicken, tortellini, colorful vegetables, and a rich basil pesto sauce. It’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Can I customize the veggies in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach based on what you have available.

How can I make homemade pesto for my Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies?

You can easily make homemade basil pesto by blending fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies is great for meal prep. Just follow storage guidelines above to keep it fresh throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with flavorful tortellini and fresh veggies. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on personal preferences or seasonal produce. Try it today for a satisfying meal that’s both quick to prepare and delicious!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

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Description

Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies is a delightful Mediterranean-inspired dish that brings vibrant flavors and nutrition to your table. This one-pan wonder features tender chicken thighs paired with colorful vegetables like asparagus and cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a rich basil pesto sauce, and served over soft tortellini. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe can be prepared in just 40 minutes, making it both a quick and satisfying meal option. The combination of fresh ingredients ensures each bite is bursting with flavor while providing essential nutrients. Impress your family and friends with this easy yet elegant dish that looks as incredible as it tastes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 lb asparagus
• 1 cup tortellini (uncooked)
• 1/4 cup basil pesto
• Cherry tomatoes for garnish
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Season chicken thighs with salt and add to the skillet with sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked.
3. Remove chicken and sun-dried tomatoes from the skillet.
4. Add asparagus to the skillet, season with salt, and cook for 5-10 minutes until tender.
5. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain.
6. Return chicken to the skillet, stir in basil pesto, and heat through for about 2 minutes.
7. Mix in cooked tortellini and halved cherry tomatoes; combine well.
8. Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve alongside the asparagus.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet cooking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 350g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 110mg