Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

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

---

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with flavor: The rich basil pesto perfectly complements the tender chicken, juicy tomatoes, and crisp asparagus.
• Quick and easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
• Customizable: Swap vegetables or choose different tortellini fillings to suit your taste.
• Meal-prep friendly: This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet: For cooking chicken, vegetables, and combining all ingredients.
• Medium saucepan: To cook the tortellini.
• Cutting board and sharp knife: For prepping the chicken, vegetables, and cherry tomatoes.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring ingredients during cooking.

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet ensures even cooking and ample space to toss the chicken, vegetables, and tortellini together.
• Sharp knife allows for precise slicing of chicken and vegetables for uniform cooking.
• Wooden spoon prevents scratching non-stick cookware while evenly mixing the dish.

Preparation Tips

• Slice chicken thighs and asparagus into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
• Drain the sun-dried tomatoes thoroughly to prevent excess oil in the dish.
• Use pre-made basil pesto for convenience or try a homemade recipe for a fresher flavor.
• Halve cherry tomatoes for even cooking and a balanced flavor profile.

---

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

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

---

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Chicken

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

2. Cook the Asparagus

• In the same skillet, add asparagus seasoned with salt and the remaining ¼ cup of sun-dried tomatoes.
• Cook over medium heat for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the asparagus is tender but retains a crisp bite.
• Transfer the asparagus to a serving plate.

3. Cook the Tortellini

• While the asparagus cooks, prepare tortellini according to package instructions.
• Drain and set aside.

4. Combine Chicken, Tortellini, and Pesto

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add ¼ cup basil pesto and stir until the chicken is evenly coated.
• Heat over low-medium for 1-2 minutes, just until the chicken is warmed through.
• Add the cooked tortellini and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine. Add more pesto, if desired.

5. Assemble and Serve

• Arrange the chicken, tortellini, and cherry tomatoes on a serving plate alongside the asparagus.
• Adjust seasoning with additional salt, if needed. Serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant dish pairs wonderfully with complementary sides and beverages. Here are some ideas:

Bread and Grains

• Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful pesto sauce.
• Herbed focaccia: Adds a rustic, Mediterranean touch to your meal.

Vegetables and Salads

• Caprese salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes echo the dish’s flavors.
• Grilled zucchini: A smoky side dish that pairs perfectly with the pesto.

Other Pairings

• Tzatziki and pita bread: Add a creamy, refreshing component to balance the flavors.
• Lemon-roasted potatoes: Crispy, tangy potatoes provide a hearty side.

Drinks

• White wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement the basil and chicken.
• Sparkling water with lemon: A light and refreshing choice for non-alcoholic pairings.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the chicken:
   • This results in a dry and rubbery texture. To prevent this, cook chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
2. Under-seasoning the dish:
   • Salt and seasoning are critical to bring out the dish’s natural flavors. Season each component separately for a well-rounded taste.
3. Soggy vegetables:
   • Asparagus should be tender-crisp for the best texture. Avoid overcooking by checking for doneness early.
4. Using too much pesto:
   • Pesto can overpower the dish if used excessively. Start with the recommended amount and add more gradually if needed.

---

Side Dish Recommendations

Bread and Pasta Options

1. Cheesy garlic breadsticks: A kid-friendly favorite.
2. Parmesan-crusted flatbread: Adds a rich, crunchy contrast.

Light Salads

3. Greek salad: Cucumber, olives, and feta create a refreshing side.
4. Spinach and arugula salad: Tossed with lemon vinaigrette for a tangy bite.

Roasted Vegetables

5. Oven-roasted Brussels sprouts: Add a nutty, caramelized flavor.
6. Honey-glazed carrots: Sweet and savory for a delightful pairing.

Other Ideas

7. Couscous salad: Light and fluffy with parsley and lemon.
8. Stuffed mushrooms: Filled with spinach and feta for a hearty appetizer.

---

How to Perfect This Recipe

• Pesto Alternatives: Experiment with sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto for variety.
• Add texture: Toss in toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a crunchy finish.
• Spice it up: Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a gentle heat.

Recipe Tips

Customize the Ingredients

• Protein substitutes: Swap chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Tortellini options: Cheese-filled tortellini is ideal, but spinach or mushroom fillings add variety.
• Vegetable alternatives: Use green beans, broccoli, or zucchini if asparagus isn’t available.

Elevate the Flavor

• Add a zesty touch: Finish the dish with freshly grated lemon zest for brightness.
• Cheesy boost: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano over the finished dish.
• Fresh herbs: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an aromatic kick.

Adjust to Your Taste

• Add more pesto for a stronger basil flavor or use a homemade pesto recipe for a fresher taste.
• If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche.

---

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: While the dish is best fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before freezing.

Reheating

• On the stove: Reheat in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra pesto to revive the sauce.
• In the microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
• Avoid overcooking the tortellini during reheating to maintain its texture.

---

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken with plant-based protein, tofu, or additional vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.

2. What kind of pesto works best?

Traditional basil pesto is ideal, but you can also use sun-dried tomato pesto, arugula pesto, or even kale pesto for a twist.

3. Can I use a different pasta?

Absolutely! While tortellini adds a cheesy element, you can substitute it with gnocchi, penne, or bow-tie pasta.

4. How do I prevent the dish from being too oily?

Make sure to drain the sun-dried tomatoes thoroughly, and start with a moderate amount of olive oil and pesto. You can always add more later.

5. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free pesto and replace cheese-filled tortellini with a vegan option or plain pasta.

6. Is this dish good for meal prep?

Definitely! This recipe reheats well, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

---

Conclusion

This Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies recipe is a Mediterranean-inspired masterpiece that’s quick, flavorful, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner, a gathering with friends, or meal prepping for the week, it’s guaranteed to impress. Pair it with your favorite sides, make it your own with creative substitutions, and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this satisfying dish.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out our other Mediterranean-style recipes to add variety to your weeknight dinners!