If you’re looking for a delicious, quick-fix dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this chicken tortellini with pesto is the perfect solution. Bursting with fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and cheesy tortellini, this dish comes together in no time and delivers a satisfying meal. The pesto adds a fresh, herby kick, while a hint of chili gives it just the right amount of heat. It’s an ideal dinner for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.
Ingredients:
- 10 oz chicken breast, cut into chunks (you can also use chicken thighs or sausage)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 zucchini, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 yellow squash, diced into small cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped into large pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- A handful of cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup pesto
- Pinch of hot pepper flakes or 1 teaspoon of Calabrian chili in oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of garlic and herb seasoning
- 10 oz fresh cheese-filled tortellini
Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
- Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken chunks and season with salt, pepper, and garlic herb seasoning.
- Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked through.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pan, pour in an additional tablespoon of olive oil.
- Toss in the diced zucchini, yellow squash, and red bell pepper.
- Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring now and then, until the veggies start to tenderize.
- Mix in the minced garlic and cook for an extra minute until it releases its aroma.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and continue cooking for 2 more minutes, letting them soften a bit.
3. Cook the Tortellini:
- As the vegetables cook, bring a pot of water seasoned with salt to a rolling boil.
- Add the cheese-filled tortellini and cook according to package instructions (usually about 3-4 minutes for fresh tortellini). Drain and set aside.
4. Combine and Flavor:
- Once the vegetables are tender, return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Stir in the pesto and the pinch of hot pepper flakes or Calabrian chili. Toss everything together to coat the chicken and vegetables with the pesto.
- Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, gently tossing everything to combine.
5. Serve:
- Divide the chicken tortellini with pesto into bowls and serve hot. You can sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top if you like or garnish with fresh basil.
Conclusion:
This quick and delicious chicken tortellini with pesto is a perfect go-to meal when you’re craving something hearty yet easy to make. The fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and cheesy tortellini come together with the rich, herby pesto for a balanced, flavorful dish. It’s an ideal weeknight dinner that offers both nutrition and satisfaction in every bite. Enjoy!