One-Pan Pesto Chicken with Tortellini and Fresh Veggies

One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies

ByNaya Lucas

Why make this recipe

One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies is a fantastic dish to prepare when you want something quick, tasty, and easy to clean up. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts, chewy tortellini, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful pesto, all cooked in one pan. It’s a complete meal that pleases both kids and adults, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.

How to make One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies

Ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 1 cup pesto sauce
  • 1 package tortellini (cheese or meat)
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Directions:

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
  3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add asparagus and cherry tomatoes, cooking for about 3-5 minutes until they start to soften.
  5. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Stir in the pesto sauce and return the chicken to the skillet. Cook everything together for another 2 minutes until heated through.
  7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

How to serve One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies

This dish is best served hot right from the skillet. You can place it directly on the table for a family-style meal. Add extra grated Parmesan cheese on top for a cheesy finish. A side salad or garlic bread can also complement this meal well.

How to store One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This meal lasts for about 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it up in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat until heated through.

Tips to make One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies

  • Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken; this helps it brown better.
  • Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein.
  • Use homemade pesto if you prefer a fresher flavor.

Variation

For a more colorful dish, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also switch up the tortellini flavors to cater to your taste.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini can be used. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they’re heated through.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance and store them separately. However, it’s best to cook the dish fresh to enjoy the flavors and textures at their best.

Is this dish gluten-free?
The recipe as is contains tortellini, which often has gluten. You can look for gluten-free tortellini to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

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