chicken pesto tortellini recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
chicken pesto tortellini recipe
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The Best chicken pesto tortellini recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – chicken pesto tortellini. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours too.

I first discovered this recipe on a trip to Italy, where I fell in love with the rich flavors and textures of the pesto sauce and the tender pasta. Since then, I’ve tweaked the recipe to make it easier to prepare at home, and my kids have grown up loving it just as much as I do.

One of the things I love about this recipe is the way the creamy pesto sauce coats the tender tortellini. It’s a perfect combination of flavors that never fails to impress.

My kids always ask for seconds, and I love that it’s a dish that can be easily customized with different toppings or ingredients. As a busy mom, I appreciate how quick and easy this recipe is to prepare.

The pasta cooks in just a few minutes, and the pesto sauce can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Plus, it’s a great way to get some extra veggies into my kids – they love helping me add spinach or other greens to the sauce.

If you’re looking for a new recipe to add to your rotation, look no further than chicken pesto tortellini. It’s a classic dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Chicken Pesto Tortellini

Chicken Pesto Tortellini

4.8 from 989 votes

A creamy and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, cheese tortellini, and a vibrant pesto sauce. This easy weeknight meal comes together quickly for a satisfying dinner.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 520 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken and Pasta

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini

For the Sauce

1/2 cup prepared pesto
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3Cook the chicken for 6 to 7 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
4Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
5While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
6Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions, typically 3 to 5 minutes, until they float and are tender.
7Drain the tortellini in a colander and set aside.
8In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to low.
9Add the pesto and heavy cream, stirring until the sauce is smooth and heated through, about 2 minutes.
10Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
11Add the cooked tortellini and sliced chicken to the skillet.
12Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
13If using sun-dried tomatoes, stir them in now.
14Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until everything is hot.
15Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Colander
Cutting board
Chef’s knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 520 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. You can also use grilled or rotisserie chicken to save time.

Watch Video Of How Chicken Pesto Tortellini Works

This chicken pesto tortellini recipe is always a hit with my family and friends, and it’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special dish for a holiday gathering, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Plus, it’s a great way to get some extra veggies into your diet – just add some spinach or other greens to the sauce and serve it over top of the pasta.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Pesto Tortellini

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of pasta you like, but I prefer using fresh or dried tortellini for this recipe.

Q: Can I make this recipe without using cream?

No, you can’t make this recipe without using cream. The cream is an essential ingredient in the pesto sauce.

Q: How do I store leftover chicken pesto tortellini?

You can store leftover chicken pesto tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini instead of fresh.

Q: How do I reheat chicken pesto tortellini?

You can reheat chicken pesto tortellini by placing it in the microwave or on the stovetop with some additional sauce.

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