Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and simplicity? Look no further than these delightful Chicken Tortellini Pesto Bowls! In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant Italian-inspired meal that will have your family asking for seconds. With tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a fresh basil pesto that ties it all together, this recipe is not just a feast for the palate but also a feast for the eyes. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure that’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups cheese tortellini
- 1/2 cup pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by dicing chicken breast into bite-sized cubes and halving the cherry tomatoes.
- Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, ensuring even coating on all pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers and is hot.
- Add seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden brown and cooked through with no pink remaining.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook cheese tortellini according to package instructions, typically 7-9 minutes until al dente.
- Drain tortellini and return to the pot, then add pesto and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Add cooked chicken to the tortellini and mix gently to combine.
- Fold in halved cherry tomatoes and transfer mixture to serving bowls.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over each bowl and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve immediately while warm, enjoying the fresh and vibrant flavors of the dish.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, consider prepping your ingredients in advance. Dice the chicken and halve the tomatoes the night before, so you can quickly throw everything together when you're ready to cook.
- Perfectly Cooked Tortellini: Keep a close eye on your tortellini while it's cooking. Aim for al dente texture for the best bite; it should be tender but still have a slight chew.
- Customize Your Pesto: If you want to add a personal touch, try making your own pesto using fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. Store-bought pesto works great, but homemade can take the flavors to the next level!
- Add Vegetables: For a more nutritious meal, feel free to toss in some sautéed spinach or zucchini along with the chicken. This adds color and extra vitamins to your bowls.
- Serve Warm: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and warm. If you have leftovers, reheat gently to maintain the texture of the tortellini and the chicken.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the fresh basil and Parmesan cheese when serving. They add a burst of freshness and flavor that truly elevates the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 492kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 93mg
