Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

This vibrant Mediterranean-inspired dish combines tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and fresh vegetables like asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and sun-dried tomatoes. Coated in aromatic basil pesto, this recipe is a quick and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein for a balanced meal.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your preferences, like using green beans or zucchini instead of asparagus.
• Crowd-Pleasing: The creamy pesto and cheesy tortellini create a flavor combination that everyone will enjoy.

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Preparation Phase

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Skillet: For sautéing chicken and vegetables.
• Pot: To cook the tortellini.
• Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping vegetables and chicken.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures precise ingredient proportions.

Preparation Tips

• Chop all vegetables and chicken before starting to streamline cooking.
• Use pre-made pesto for convenience or make a fresh batch for enhanced flavor.
• Keep a strainer handy for quick draining of tortellini.

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Ingredients

Protein

• 1 lb chicken thighs (boneless, skinless, sliced into strips)

Vegetables

• 1 lb asparagus, ends trimmed and halved
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (yellow and red), halved
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped

Pasta and Sauce

• 1 cup cheese-filled tortellini (uncooked)
• ¼ cup basil pesto, or more to taste

Cooking Essentials

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced chicken thighs, seasoned with salt, and ¼ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Cook for 5–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked.
4. Remove the chicken and sun-dried tomatoes from the skillet, leaving the oil behind.

2. Cook the Asparagus

1. In the same skillet, add the asparagus and the remaining ¼ cup of sun-dried tomatoes.
2. Season generously with salt.
3. Cook over medium heat for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the asparagus is tender but still crisp.
4. Transfer the asparagus to a serving plate.

3. Cook the Tortellini

1. While the asparagus is cooking, boil the tortellini according to the package instructions.
2. Drain and set aside.

4. Combine Chicken, Tortellini, and Pesto

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the basil pesto. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Cook over low-medium heat for 1–2 minutes, until the chicken is reheated.
3. Add the cooked tortellini and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Adjust seasoning as needed and add more pesto, if desired.

5. Assemble and Serve

1. Place the chicken, tortellini, and cherry tomatoes on the serving plate with the asparagus.
2. Serve warm and enjoy!

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Tips and Variations

• Pesto Options: Use store-bought pesto for convenience or homemade pesto for a fresher flavor.
• Vegetable Swaps: Green beans, zucchini, or broccoli can replace asparagus for variety.
• Tortellini Types: Cheese-filled tortellini works best, but spinach or mushroom varieties are excellent alternatives.
• Meal Prep Tip: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation matters just as much as flavor when serving this vibrant Mediterranean dish. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

• Plating: Arrange the chicken, tortellini, and vegetables on a large serving platter. Add a drizzle of extra pesto for a visually appealing finish.
• Garnish: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or chopped fresh basil for extra flavor and color.
• Bread Pairing: Serve with warm garlic bread or crusty baguettes to soak up any leftover pesto sauce.
• Salad Accompaniments: Pair with a crisp green salad or a refreshing Mediterranean-style salad with cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even a simple recipe like this can benefit from avoiding common pitfalls:

1. Overcooking Tortellini

• Follow the package instructions and cook until al dente. Overcooked tortellini can become mushy.

1. Using Too Much Pesto

• While pesto is delicious, adding too much can overpower the dish. Start with ¼ cup and adjust to taste.

1. Skipping Seasoning

• Season each component (chicken, vegetables, pasta) for a balanced flavor profile.

1. Overcooking Vegetables

• Asparagus should remain tender-crisp to retain its vibrant color and texture.

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Side Dish Recommendations

Enhance your meal with these complementary side dishes:

1. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery, and infused with garlic for a comforting pairing.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic salad with crisp Romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Oven-roasted and seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and a touch of balsamic glaze.
4. Caprese Salad: Layers of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar.
5. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic: A quick and flavorful green side dish.
6. Lemon Orzo: Light and zesty, this pairs beautifully with the pesto’s basil flavor.
7. Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant brushed with olive oil and grilled to perfection.
8. Cucumber Yogurt Salad: Cool and refreshing, with creamy yogurt, dill, and a hint of lemon.

These sides complement the richness of the pesto chicken tortellini while adding variety to your table.

Recipe Tips

1. Choose Fresh Ingredients

• Opt for fresh chicken, vibrant vegetables, and high-quality pesto for the best flavor.
• If using store-bought pesto, choose one with minimal additives for a more authentic taste.

1. Perfectly Cooked Tortellini

• Cook tortellini until al dente. Overcooking can make the pasta too soft and cause it to break apart.

1. Cooking Vegetables

• Sauté asparagus just until tender-crisp to maintain its bright color and slight crunch.

1. Customizations

• Swap proteins by using shrimp or diced turkey instead of chicken.
• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Avoid freezing if using store-bought tortellini, as the texture may change upon reheating.

Reheating

1. Stovetop Method

• Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
• Add the leftovers with a splash of water or broth to loosen the pesto sauce.
• Stir gently and heat until warmed through.

1. Microwave Method

• Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish.
• Cover loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap.
• Heat on medium power for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway.

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FAQs

1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

• Absolutely! Replace the chicken with plant-based proteins like chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh.

2. What type of pesto works best?

• Basil pesto is traditional, but you can experiment with spinach, kale, or arugula pesto for a twist.

3. How can I make this dairy-free?

• Use dairy-free pesto and opt for tortellini without cheese filling.

4. Can I freeze this dish?

• While freezing is possible, the texture of the tortellini and asparagus may change. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

• Yes, if you use gluten-free tortellini and ensure the pesto is gluten-free.

6. What other proteins can I use?

• Shrimp, turkey, or thinly sliced beef are great alternatives to chicken.

7. How do I adjust the recipe for larger servings?

• Simply double the ingredients and ensure you use a large skillet or two for even cooking.

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Conclusion

Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies is the perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. With tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and vibrant vegetables, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress your family or guests. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or planning for casual entertaining, this recipe delivers every time.

Ready to try it? Share your results and let us know your favorite customizations! Don’t forget to explore more Mediterranean-inspired recipes for your next meal adventure.