This Easy Basil Pesto Chicken dish is a simple and tasty meal! Juicy chicken is cooked with colorful veggies and mixed with delicious tortellini and fresh basil pesto. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe, but thighs can work too. They’re juicier! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using chickpeas or tofu instead.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini pairs perfectly with this dish. You could use spinach or mushroom tortellini for a twist. If you want a lower-carb option, try zucchini noodles or cauliflower gnocchi.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds great texture. If it’s out of season, use green beans or broccoli. You can also skip the veggies if you’re in a hurry, but I love the color and nutrition they bring!
Basil Pesto: Store-bought pesto is convenient, but homemade is oh-so-good! If you want to switch it up, try sun-dried tomato pesto or even a simple garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan mix.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color, but you can swap in any tomato variety you have handy. Just chop them up a bit. Canned diced tomatoes can also work in a pinch!
How Do I Cook Tortellini Perfectly?
Cooking tortellini may seem easy, but here are a few tips to get it just right:
- Use plenty of salted water to help season the pasta.
- Keep an eye on the time! Fresh tortellini usually cooks in 3-5 minutes. Frozen takes a bit longer, check the package.
- Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once it’s al dente, drain it promptly to avoid overcooking!
These steps will ensure your tortellini is perfectly cooked, soft but still slightly firm to the bite!
Easy Basil Pesto Chicken with Tortellini and Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red and yellow for color)
- 1/3 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking, with about 15 minutes for everything to come together in the skillet. A quick and delicious meal perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions—usually about 3-5 minutes—until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the tortellini and set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add in the chicken pieces, seasoning them with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s browned and cooked through.
3. Add the Veggies:
Now, toss in the trimmed asparagus into the skillet with the chicken. Cook everything together for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the asparagus is tender but still has a nice crunch to it.
4. Mix in the Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes. Let those cook for about 1-2 minutes, just until they start to soften up a little. The colors will be beautiful!
5. Combine with Tortellini and Pesto:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet along with the basil pesto. Gently toss everything together to make sure all the chicken, veggies, and pasta are well-coated in that delicious pesto.
6. Final Touches:
Cook everything together for an extra minute to warm through. Taste and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper as needed. It should smell amazing!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the vibrant pesto chicken with tortellini onto plates. If you’d like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for that extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your cozy, colorful meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While cheese tortellini works perfectly, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you enjoy, such as penne, farfalle, or even whole grain pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
What Can I Substitute for Basil Pesto?
If you’re out of basil pesto, you can make a quick alternative by blending fresh herbs like spinach or arugula with garlic, olive oil, nuts (like pine nuts or walnuts), and Parmesan cheese. Alternatively, sun-dried tomato pesto also adds a delicious twist!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it looks dry.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe is very versatile, so feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times to ensure everything is nicely cooked!
