Chicken Tortellini smothered with basil pesto and served with lots of veggies is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. This Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, as it combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and creamy pesto in a single, satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner or a dish to impress friends, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of basil pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh veggies creates vibrant flavors in every bite.
- Healthy and Nutritious: With lean chicken and plenty of colorful vegetables, this dish is packed with nutrients and flavor.
- Versatile: Feel free to swap out the veggies based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the pasta and chicken combination, making it a great way to get them to eat their veggies.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cooking spoon
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Skillet: A large skillet allows you to cook all ingredients evenly while leaving enough space for stirring without spilling.
- Cooking Spoon: A sturdy cooking spoon helps mix everything evenly, ensuring that each ingredient is well-coated with pesto.
Ingredients
To prepare the delicious Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies, you will need the following 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 Pasta
- 1 cup tortellini (uncooked)
For Serving
- 1/4 cup basil pesto (or use more)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (yellow and red, halved)
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 about 5-10 minutes, turning chicken slices occasionally until completely cooked through.
Step 3: Remove Chicken
Remove the cooked chicken and sun-dried tomatoes from the skillet but leave the oil behind.
Step 4: Cook Asparagus
- Add asparagus (seasoned generously with salt) along with another 1/4 cup of sun-dried tomatoes to the same skillet.
- Cook on medium heat for about 5-10 minutes until tender. Remove asparagus from skillet.
Step 5: Prepare Tortellini
Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain when done.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
- Return cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Add basil pesto; stir well to coat everything. Cook on low-medium heat until heated through (about 1-2 minutes).
Step 7: Mix Everything
Add cooked tortellini and halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet. Stir gently until combined; add more pesto if desired.
Step 8: Season & Serve
Season with additional salt if needed. Plate up by adding chicken, cherry tomatoes, tortellini alongside asparagus.
For those interested in making their own basil pesto from scratch, check out this super flavorful 20-Minute Homemade Basil Pesto Recipe!
How to Serve Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies
Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies is a vibrant and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Serve with Fresh Herbs
- Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top to add a burst of flavor and color.
Accompany with Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread for a perfect dip into the pesto sauce.
Pair with a Green Salad
- Mixed Greens: A simple salad of mixed greens with olive oil and lemon dressing complements the dish well.
Add Cheese on Top
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over the top just before serving for an extra cheesy touch.
Serve in a Bowl
- Individual Bowls: Present each portion in individual bowls for a cozy, family-style meal.
Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze
- Balsamic Reduction: A light drizzle of balsamic glaze adds sweetness and acidity, balancing the savory flavors.
How to Perfect Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies
To make your Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Pesto: Choose a high-quality basil pesto for richer flavor; homemade pesto often tastes best.
- Cook Vegetables Crisp-Tender: Aim for crisp-tender veggies to maintain their vibrant colors and crunch.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; adding salt or pepper at different stages can enhance flavor.
- Add Protein Variations: Consider adding shrimp or tofu for variation, making it suitable for different diets.
- Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers based on availability.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the dish fresh from the stove for optimal taste and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies
Pairing side dishes with your Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent choices:
- Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread complements the flavors beautifully.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing adds crunch.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies offer additional nutrients and taste.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing contrast.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus enhances the Mediterranean theme.
- Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cheeses, and cured meats brings variety to the table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious result.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Always season your ingredients with salt. This enhances the flavors of the dish and helps each component shine.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure all ingredients, especially pesto, are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can cool down your dish unexpectedly.
- Skipping the Pasta Cooking Instructions: Follow the tortellini package instructions carefully. Undercooked pasta will affect the texture of your meal.
- Forgetting to Drain Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Ensure that sun-dried tomatoes are well-drained before adding them. Excess oil can make your dish greasy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- It’s best to freeze without sauce if you want to maintain texture.
Reheating Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between for even heating.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies.
What can I use instead of chicken thighs?
You can substitute chicken breasts or even shrimp for a different protein option while keeping the dish flavorful.
How do I make homemade pesto?
To make homemade pesto, blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth. This enhances flavor significantly!
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and color in your Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies.
What is the best type of tortellini to use?
You can use cheese-filled or meat-filled tortellini depending on your preference; both work well with pesto.
How do I store leftover pesto?
Store any leftover pesto in an airtight container with a layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning. It lasts about a week in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies is a vibrant Mediterranean dish that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!
Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies is a vibrant Mediterranean dish that delights the senses with its combination of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and creamy basil pesto. This easy recipe can be prepared in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests. With each bite bursting with flavor from sun-dried tomatoes and fresh veggies, this meal is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s wonderfully versatile—swap out vegetables based on your preferences or seasonal availability. Whether served in individual bowls or family-style, this dish is a celebration of fresh ingredients and wholesome goodness that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 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
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken thighs and season with salt; cook for 5-10 minutes until fully cooked.
- Remove chicken and leave the oil behind.
- Cook asparagus and remaining sun-dried tomatoes for about 5-10 minutes until tender; remove from skillet.
- Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain.
- Return chicken to skillet, add basil pesto, and heat through for 1-2 minutes.
- Mix in tortellini and cherry tomatoes; stir gently to combine.
- Season to taste and serve with asparagus on the side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 cups
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for different protein options. Customize vegetables based on what's in season or your preferences.