Chicken Pesto Tortellini: 7 Reasons You'll Love This Dish

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Chicken Pesto Tortellini is a herby, flavor-packed dish that has become a staple in my home. This quick and family-friendly dinner combines cheesy tortellini, juicy chicken, and vibrant basil pesto, all ready in just 20 minutes. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this delightful Italian meal!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pesto Tortellini

This Chicken Pesto Tortellini is not just another pasta dish; it offers an array of benefits that make it a must-try. Firstly, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it ideal for a Quick Chicken Pesto Tortellini Dinner. Secondly, the combination of flavors from the pesto and cheese creates a creamy and rich sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Thirdly, it is a versatile dish that can be customized with extras like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, giving you options to fit your preferences. Fourthly, it’s a Gluten-Free Chicken Pesto Tortellini option if you choose gluten-free tortellini. Additionally, this recipe is packed with protein from the chicken, making it a hearty meal. Lastly, it’s a fantastic dish for meal prep, ensuring you have delicious leftovers. Who wouldn’t love that?

Ingredients for Chicken Pesto Tortellini

Gather these items:

9 ounce package of three cheese tortellini
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic (minced)
⅓ cup basil pesto
¼ cup chicken broth
4 ounces 1/3 less fat cream cheese (cut up in a few chunks)
2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
12 ounces cooked chicken breasts (diced)
10 ounces bag baby spinach
4 slices fresh mozzarella (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh basil ribbons (for garnish)

How to Make Chicken Pesto Tortellini Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cook the pasta. Cook the tortellini according to the directions on the package.
Step 2: Sauté. In the meantime, heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet. Add the garlic and cook for 15 seconds, or until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the sauce. Stir in the pesto. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Then, whisk in the cut-up cream cheese. Add the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, and continue whisking until you get a creamy sauce.
Step 4: Add the chicken. Stir in the chicken and spinach; cook for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the spinach is wilted.
Step 5: Add tortellini. Drain the tortellini and add them to the skillet; slowly stir to coat.
Step 6: Add cheese (optional). If you’re adding mozzarella cheese, layer the slices over the top of the tortellini mixture and broil for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Step 7: Enjoy! Garnish with fresh basil ribbons and serve.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Pesto Tortellini

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh basil for garnish to enhance the flavor.
For a lighter meal, consider using less cream cheese or a cream cheese alternative.
Make sure to stir the sauce continuously to prevent it from sticking.
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Pesto Tortellini

There are many delicious ways to enjoy this dish. Serve the Chicken Pesto Tortellini Salad style with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. Alternatively, pair it with a light green salad to balance the richness of the pasta. You can also enjoy it as a Pesto Chicken Tortellini Bake by adding breadcrumbs on top and baking until golden.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Pesto Tortellini

To store leftovers, place the Chicken Pesto Tortellini in an airtight container and refrigerate. When reheating, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive the creaminess. You can also use a microwave to heat it, but make sure to stir it halfway through to ensure even warming. This method makes it perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Pesto Tortellini

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Pesto Tortellini?

The secret to perfect Chicken Pesto Tortellini lies in the quality of the pesto and cooking the tortellini just right. Don’t overcook it; the pasta should be al dente for the best texture.

Can I make Chicken Pesto Tortellini ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Chicken Pesto Tortellini ahead of time. Just store the sauce and cooked tortellini separately in the fridge and combine them when you’re ready to eat.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Pesto Tortellini?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that your cream cheese is softened before adding it to the sauce. This helps achieve that creamy consistency. Also, be mindful of the heat to prevent the sauce from curdling.

Variations of Chicken Pesto Tortellini You Can Try

For a twist on the classic, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or grilled chicken for a smoky flavor. You can also make Homemade Pesto Tortellini with Chicken for a fresh take. If you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a healthier, creamy sauce.

For more delicious recipes, check out Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta or Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Recipe. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, visit Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet for inspiration!