Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies is a delightful Mediterranean-style dinner that brings together tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and vibrant veggies. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for weeknight meals or casual entertaining. The combination of basil pesto with colorful ingredients creates a satisfying, flavorful experience that everyone will enjoy.

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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 Main Dish
• 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
• Family Style
• Individual Plates
• With Fresh Bread
• Salad Accompaniment
• 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
• What is Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies?
• Can I customize the vegetables in my Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies?
• How long does it take to prepare Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies?
• Is Pesto Chicken Tortellini healthy?
• Can I make my own pesto for this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The basil pesto adds a rich, aromatic taste that enhances the chicken and veggies.
• Versatile: Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the veggies, this meal is both healthy and hearty.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers taste great and can be stored for up to three days, perfect for lunch the next day!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to make the process smoother. Having everything at hand can help you keep track of your ingredients and steps.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for cooking multiple ingredients at once without overcrowding.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping chicken and veggies easy and efficient.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for food prep while keeping your counters clean.

Ingredients

This Mediterranean-style dinner features tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and colorful vegetables like asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and sun-dried tomatoes, all coated in flavorful basil pesto. It’s a vibrant, satisfying meal that comes together in 40 minutes, perfect for weeknights or casual entertaining.

For the Main Dish

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, sliced into strips
• Salt, to taste
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained of oil and chopped
• 1 lb asparagus, ends trimmed and cut in half
• ¼ cup basil pesto (or more, to taste)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (yellow and red), halved
• 1 cup tortellini (uncooked)

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 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; 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 5-10 minutes while stirring occasionally until tender but still crisp.
Remove the asparagus to a serving plate.

Step 3: Cook the Tortellini

While the asparagus cooks, prepare the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain them well when finished cooking.

Step 4: Combine Chicken, Tortellini, and Pesto

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with basil pesto.
Stir well to coat all ingredients evenly.
Cook over low-medium heat for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through. Remove from heat.
Add cooked tortellini and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet; stir well to combine. Adjust seasoning by adding more pesto if desired.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Place the mixture of chicken, tortellini, cherry tomatoes on a serving plate alongside asparagus.
Adjust seasoning with additional salt as needed before serving warm.

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. The vibrant colors and flavors of this dish make it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Family Style

• Serve the dish in a large bowl where everyone can help themselves. This approach encourages sharing and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Individual Plates

• Plate individual servings with a sprinkling of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an elegant touch. Add a few basil leaves as a garnish for color.

With Fresh Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread on the side to soak up any remaining pesto sauce. This adds texture and enhances the meal’s Mediterranean flair.

Salad Accompaniment

• Pair with a light salad, such as arugula with lemon vinaigrette, to balance the richness of the tortellini and chicken. A fresh salad complements the flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

To enhance your Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies, consider these simple tips that will take your dish to the next level.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken, vegetables, and basil pesto can greatly improve flavor.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables for added freshness and variety.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook tortellini until al dente to maintain its texture when mixed with other ingredients.
• Adjust Pesto Quantity: Start with less pesto; you can always add more based on your taste preferences.
• Garnish Thoughtfully: A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or chopped fresh herbs can add crunch and freshness.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy this dish right after preparation for the best flavors and texture.

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Best Side Dishes for Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

Pairing side dishes with Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies can enhance your meal even further. Consider these delicious options:

1. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini adds a nice charred flavor that complements the dish.
4. Roasted Bell Peppers: Sweet roasted bell peppers bring sweetness and color to your plate.
5. Greek Yogurt Dip: A cool yogurt dip with herbs adds creaminess that balances the meal’s richness.
6. Lemon Quinoa Salad: A zesty quinoa salad adds protein and a refreshing citrus note that pairs well with pesto.
7. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli offers a healthy crunch that enhances overall nutrition.
8. Mixed Vegetable Medley: Sautéed seasonal vegetables provide color, nutrition, and variety alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious meal.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken or veggies can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper to enhance taste.
• Overcooking the tortellini: Cooking tortellini too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions closely for the best texture.
• Using low-quality pesto: Cheap pesto can lack flavor. Opt for a good quality basil pesto or consider making your own for a fresher taste.
• Not measuring ingredients: Eyeballing ingredients can throw off the balance of flavors. Measure accurately for the best results.
• Neglecting meal prep: Failing to prepare ingredients in advance can lead to chaos in the kitchen. Chop veggies and chicken ahead of time to streamline cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or olive oil, and stir until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies?

This dish features tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, vibrant vegetables, and basil pesto, making it a colorful and satisfying meal.

Can I customize the vegetables in my Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies?

Absolutely! You can substitute asparagus with green beans, zucchini, or broccoli based on your preference.

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

The total time for this recipe is around 40 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Is Pesto Chicken Tortellini healthy?

Yes! This dish combines lean protein from chicken with nutritious veggies and carbohydrates from tortellini, making it a balanced meal option.

Can I make my own pesto for this recipe?

Definitely! Homemade pesto offers fresh flavors. You can blend basil, garlic, nuts, parmesan cheese, and olive oil for a quick homemade version.

Final Thoughts

Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies is an appealing dish that’s both quick to prepare and rich in flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Encourage friends or family to try this delightful recipe; it’s sure to impress!