Description
Looking for a quick, flavorful, and easy one-pan dinner? This Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies recipe is perfect for busy weeknights! It combines juicy chicken, cheesy tortellini, and fresh veggies, all coated in a rich basil pesto sauce. With minimal prep and cleanup, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in just 30 minutes.
This recipe is a Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s bursting with vibrant flavors from sun-dried tomatoes, asparagus, and basil. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or making a comforting dinner, this one-pan dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 (9 oz) package of cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth (or water)
Optional Add-ins & Swaps:
- For a lighter version – Use grilled chicken breast instead of thighs.
- For a vegetarian version – Swap chicken for mushrooms or chickpeas.
- For a gluten-free version – Use gluten-free tortellini or zucchini noodles.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced chicken, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning, and cook for 5-6 minutes, until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the sun-dried tomatoes, asparagus, and cherry tomatoes.
- Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still vibrant.
Step 3: Cook the Tortellini
- Add chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the cheese tortellini and cook for 4-5 minutes until tender.
Step 4: Combine & Finish
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan.
- Add the basil pesto and stir everything together until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and mix well.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Remove from heat and let sit for a minute.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil or extra Parmesan cheese.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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Use fresh tortellini – It cooks faster and has a better texture than dried tortellini.
Sear the chicken well – A golden crust adds more flavor.
Don’t overcook the veggies – Keep them crisp for better texture.
Add pesto off the heat – This prevents it from becoming bitter.
Customize with your favorite veggies – Mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers work great!