What ingredients do I need to make pesto chicken tortellini?

To make pesto chicken tortellini, you will need cheese tortellini, boneless skinless chicken breasts, basil pesto, olive oil, grape tomatoes, and fresh basil. Additionally, salt and pepper can be used to season the chicken, and grated Parmesan cheese can be added as a garnish for extra flavor. These simple ingredients come together quickly to create a flavorful, satisfying dish.

How long does it take to cook pesto chicken tortellini from start to finish?

Preparing and cooking pesto chicken tortellini typically takes about 24 minutes. This includes roughly 10 minutes for prepping the ingredients, such as chopping chicken and tomatoes, and about 14 minutes for cooking the chicken and tortellini together. This makes the dish a great option for a quick weeknight meal.

Can I make pesto chicken tortellini without chicken to keep it vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of pesto tortellini by omitting the chicken. The combination of cheese tortellini, basil pesto, and fresh tomatoes offers plenty of flavor on its own. You can also add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added texture and nutrients.

Is it okay to use store-bought pesto for this recipe?

Absolutely. Store-bought basil pesto is a convenient option that works well in this recipe, especially when you’re short on time. Just choose a high-quality brand for the best taste. Using store-bought pesto delivers a delicious dish without the extra step of making pesto from scratch.

How should I store leftover pesto chicken tortellini, and how long will it keep?

Store leftover pesto chicken tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you can warm it on the stove or in the microwave. The dish also tastes great served cold, making it a convenient option for packed lunches or quick snacks.

Pesto Chicken Tortellini Skillet Recipe With 7 Easy Ingredients

Name: Chicken Pesto Tortellini Skillet Recipe with Simple Ingredients
Prep time: PT-493942H48M41S
Cook time: PT-493942H48M41S
Total time: PT-493942H48M41S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 (20-ounce / about 570 g) package cheese tortellini; 1/2 pound (about 225 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup basil pesto; 1/2 cup coarsely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or 1 1/2 cups halved grape tomatoes; Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, plus extra for garnish; Optional garnishes: grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes; For creamy sauce: 1 tablespoon butter; 1 1/2 cups milk; 2 ounces cream cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Ingredients

Scale

1 (20-ounce / about 570 g) package cheese tortellini
1/2 pound (about 225 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup basil pesto
1/2 cup coarsely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or 1 1/2 cups halved grape tomatoes
Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, plus extra for garnish
Optional garnishes: grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes
For creamy sauce: 1 tablespoon butter
1 1/2 cups milk
2 ounces cream cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.

2. In a small bowl, mix paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss chicken pieces in the seasoning mix, then coat evenly with flour.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and, if using, a sprig of fresh basil, sauté for about 30 seconds.

4. Add seasoned chicken and cook until fully cooked and no longer pink inside; about 5-7 minutes. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes briefly.

5. For creamy sauce: Remove chicken, melt butter in the same pan, cook flour for 1 minute. Whisk in milk until thickened, then stir in cream cheese. Add cream, pesto, and Parmesan, simmer until thickened. Return chicken and tortellini, combining thoroughly.

6. Without creamy sauce: Return cooked tortellini to skillet with chicken and tomatoes, reduce heat, and mix.

7. Stir in pesto, adjust seasoning, and optionally spice up with red pepper flakes.

8. Garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan before serving.

Last Step:

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Notes

🧄 Use sun-dried tomato oil for an added depth of flavor.
🍅 Marinate chicken for tenderness if time allows.
🧀 Enhance with fresh basil and Parmesan for finishing touches.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 10 to 20 minutes
Cook Time: 14 to 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 523 to 766
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 740 to 1120mg
Fat: 25 to 45g
Saturated Fat: 5 to 23g
Unsaturated Fat: 20g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42 to 48g
Fiber: 2 to 4g
Protein: 23 to 42g
Cholesterol: 56 to 120mg