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Creamy Pesto Chicken Tortellini

Creamy Pesto Chicken Tortellini
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Creamy Pesto Chicken Tortellini is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a rich creamy basil pesto sauce. This quick and easy meal is perfect for weeknights, offering a delicious blend of savory, fresh, and indulgent tastes that everyone can enjoy.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Cheese tortellini – 12 oz (fresh or refrigerated)
  • Boneless chicken breast – 2 medium, diced
  • Basil pesto (store-bought or homemade) – 1/3 cup
  • Heavy cream or half-and-half – 1 cup
  • Parmesan cheese, grated – 1/2 cup
  • Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic, minced – 2 cloves
  • Salt – to taste
  • Black pepper – to taste

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh basil leaves – for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
  2. Prepare the chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season diced chicken breast with salt and pepper and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and keep warm.
  3. Make the creamy pesto sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Let the sauce thicken slightly; add reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.
  4. Combine and finish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained tortellini. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in the creamy pesto sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh basil pesto for brighter, more vibrant flavor.
  • Do not overcook the tortellini to maintain a perfect texture.
  • Reserve some pasta water to help thin and bind the sauce to the pasta.
  • Cut chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best flavor and melting quality.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy pesto chicken, tortellini recipe, pesto pasta, easy dinner, Italian chicken pasta, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/creamy-pesto-chicken-tortellini/