Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

This Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Bursting with vibrant flavors from tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and colorful veggies like asparagus and cherry tomatoes, this dish is both satisfying and simple to prepare. In just 40 minutes, you can enjoy a Mediterranean-style meal that delights the senses.

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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 Pasta and Veggies
• For the Sauce
• For Garnish
• 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 Fresh Salad
• Add a Slice of Bread
• Offer a Beverage
• 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
• How do I customize Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies?
• Can I use store-bought pesto for my Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies?
• What type of tortellini works best?
• How long does it take to prepare Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies?
• Can I make this dish ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This meal takes only 40 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of basil pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh veggies creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Options: Easily swap out the vegetables or pasta types to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Nutritious Dinner: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from colorful veggies, this dish is as healthy as it is delicious.
• Great for Leftovers: This recipe reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying as leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools for an efficient experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows even cooking of chicken and vegetables without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools are great for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Cutting board: Ensures a safe and clean surface for chopping ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

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

For the Pasta and 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
• 1 cup tortellini (uncooked)

For the Sauce

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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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 along with ¼ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for about 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked. Remove both chicken and sun-dried tomatoes from the skillet but leave 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 approximately 5-10 minutes. Stir occasionally until asparagus is tender yet still crisp. Once done, remove asparagus to a serving plate.

Step 3: Cook the Tortellini

While cooking asparagus, prepare tortellini according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside until ready to combine.

Step 4: Combine Chicken, Tortellini, and Pesto

Return cooked chicken to the skillet along with basil pesto. Stir well to coat everything evenly in pesto. Heat over low-medium for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Then add cooked tortellini and halved cherry tomatoes; stir again to combine. Adjust seasoning with additional pesto if desired.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Transfer chicken, tortellini, and cherry tomatoes onto the serving plate alongside asparagus. You can adjust seasoning with more salt if needed before serving hot.

Enjoy your delicious Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies!

How to Serve Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

Serving Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies can elevate your dining experience. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this dish is perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a refreshing crunch.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and ripe tomatoes complement the pesto flavors beautifully.

Add a Slice of Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread makes a great accompaniment to soak up any leftover pesto sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: Perfect for adding texture and is great for dipping.

Offer a Beverage

• White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs nicely with the Mediterranean flavors.
• Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling water with lemon or lime slices for a refreshing touch.

How to Perfect Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

Perfecting your Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies can make all the difference in flavor and presentation. Here are some tips to ensure you create a delightful dish every time.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t be shy with salt when cooking the chicken and veggies; it enhances overall flavor.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables whenever possible for better taste and texture.
• Customize Pesto: Feel free to add extra herbs or nuts to your pesto for a personalized touch.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your tortellini is cooked al dente for the perfect bite.

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Best Side Dishes for Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

Complementing your Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies with the right side dishes can enhance the meal’s overall appeal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these potatoes add heartiness to your meal.
2. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant adds color and nutrients.
3. Lemon Herb Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous with lemon zest pairs wonderfully with the dish’s flavors.
4. Sautéed Spinach: Simple sautéed spinach with garlic provides a nutritious green side that complements well.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and cured meats works as an excellent starter before the main course.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with diced vegetables is nutritious and will round out your meal perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken or veggies properly can lead to bland flavors. Be sure to add salt and other spices according to your taste.
• Overcooking the asparagus: Cooking asparagus too long can make it mushy. Aim for tenderness while keeping a slight crunch for the best texture.
• Ignoring cooking times: Each ingredient has its ideal cooking time. Follow the instructions closely to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.
• Using cold tortellini: Adding cold tortellini to the hot skillet can disrupt cooking. Ensure it’s warm before combining with the other ingredients.
• Not adjusting pesto quantity: The amount of pesto can vary based on personal preference. Start with less and add more as needed for optimal flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for best flavor and quality.

Freezing Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best if consumed within 2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I customize Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies?

You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Consider bell peppers, zucchini, or even shrimp for variety.

Can I use store-bought pesto for my Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto offers convenience without sacrificing flavor. However, homemade pesto can provide an extra fresh touch.

What type of tortellini works best?

Cheese-filled tortellini is recommended as it complements the dish’s flavors beautifully. Spinach or mushroom varieties are also excellent choices.

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

This delightful meal takes approximately 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it in advance but store components separately if possible. This ensures everything stays fresh until you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its versatility, you can mix up the vegetables or swap out proteins based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!

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