Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies Recipe: A Fresh, Flavor-Packed Comfort Meal
Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies Recipe is the kind of meal that effortlessly bridges comfort and freshness. Tender cheese-filled tortellini, juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic pesto come together in one dish that feels indulgent yet balanced. Every bite delivers creamy, herby richness paired with wholesome textures, making it a favorite for both busy weeknights and relaxed family dinners.
Inspired by Italian flavors but designed for modern home cooking, this recipe highlights simplicity without sacrificing taste. The pesto adds brightness, the chicken provides satisfying protein, and the vegetables bring color and nutrition to the plate. Whether served straight from the skillet or prepared ahead for meal prep, this dish offers versatility, ease, and crowd-pleasing appeal.
Ingredients Needed
The following ingredients serve approximately 4 people. Calorie counts are estimated based on typical portions used in the recipe.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated) | 18 oz | 900 kcal |
| Chicken breast (boneless, skinless) | 1 lb | 520 kcal |
| Basil pesto | ½ cup | 480 kcal |
| Bell peppers (sliced) | 2 medium | 60 kcal |
| Zucchini (sliced) | 1 medium | 35 kcal |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup | 30 kcal |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 kcal |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | 15 kcal |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon | 5 kcal |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | 0 kcal |
| Parmesan cheese (optional garnish) | 2 tablespoons | 40 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Cook the tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Prepare the chicken
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. - Sauté the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside. - Cook the vegetables
In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add bell peppers and zucchini, cooking for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender. Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook for another minute. - Combine everything
Lower the heat and add the cooked tortellini and chicken back to the skillet. Stir in pesto until everything is evenly coated. - Finish and serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Switch the protein with shrimp, rotisserie chicken, or grilled tofu.
- Use whole-wheat or spinach tortellini for added fiber and color.
- Add creaminess by stirring in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half.
- Boost veggies with spinach, broccoli, or asparagus.
- Make it dairy-free using dairy-free tortellini and vegan pesto.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 600–650 kcal |
| Protein | 35–40 g |
| Fat | 28–32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45–50 g |
| Fiber | 4–6 g |
| Sodium | Moderate (varies by pesto and tortellini) |
This dish provides a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, making it both filling and energizing.
Serving Suggestions
Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For a lighter option, serve alongside steamed greens or a lemony arugula salad. A glass of white wine or sparkling water with citrus complements the herby flavors perfectly.
Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies Recipe: A Fresh, Flavor-Packed Comfort Meal
4
servings10
minutes15
minutes600-650
kcalIngredients
18 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
½ cup basil pesto
2 medium bell peppers, sliced
1 medium zucchini, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt & black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional garnish)
Directions
- Cook tortellini – Boil a large pot of salted water and cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare chicken – Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook chicken – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Cook vegetables – In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add bell peppers and zucchini, cooking 3–4 minutes until slightly tender. Add cherry tomatoes and cook 1 more minute.
- Combine ingredients – Add tortellini and chicken back into the skillet. Stir in pesto until evenly coated.
- Finish and serve – Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and serve hot.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Cook tortellini just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with chicken and vegetables.
Use leftover or rotisserie chicken for a quicker version without compromising flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this dish in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it creamy.
2. Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?
Absolutely. Frozen tortellini works just as well—just follow the package instructions for cooking time. Fresh tortellini gives a slightly softer texture, but frozen is convenient and delicious.
3. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Swap the chicken for grilled tofu, tempeh, or extra vegetables. Use vegetarian or vegan pesto and cheese tortellini to keep it fully plant-based.
4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure your pesto and other ingredients are labeled gluten-free. This way, the recipe stays safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing tortellini, as it can become mushy when thawed.
Conclusion
Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies is a comforting yet fresh recipe that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Its vibrant colors, rich pesto sauce, and hearty ingredients make it a reliable go-to meal for any occasion. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, this dish proves that wholesome, restaurant-quality meals can be made right at home without complexity.
