Creamy Pesto Chicken Tortellini Simple and Tasty Meal

by Emily on March 16, 2025

Craving a simple yet delicious meal? Let me introduce you to Creamy Pesto Chicken Tortellini—a dish that’s quick to make and rich in flavor. With tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a creamy pesto sauce, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. In this article, I’ll guide you through easy steps and share tips for perfecting this tasty favorite. Get ready to impress your family or guests!

$- 12 oz cheese tortellini - 2 chicken breasts, diced - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup heavy cream - 1/2 cup basil pesto - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - Fresh basil leaves for garnish In this dish, the cheese tortellini serves as a tasty base. It cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. The chicken gives protein and heartiness to each bite. Olive oil helps brown the chicken, adding depth to the flavor. Garlic adds a nice kick. It brings warmth to the sauce. Heavy cream makes everything rich and smooth. The basil pesto adds bright, herbaceous notes. It really ties the dish together. Garnishing with grated Parmesan cheese gives a salty touch. Halved cherry tomatoes add freshness and color. Fresh basil leaves on top brighten the plate. These extras make the dish look appealing and add extra flavor. This dish is simple yet satisfying. You can find most of these items in your kitchen. If you love a tasty meal, gather these ingredients and get ready to cook! {{ingredient_image_1}} First, cook the cheese tortellini. Follow the package instructions for best results. Once it is cooked, drain it well. Set it aside while you prepare the rest. Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add two tablespoons of olive oil and let it warm up. Now, add the diced chicken breasts. Sprinkle salt and pepper on top. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure it turns golden brown and is fully cooked. After that, add two cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for one to two minutes until you smell the garlic. In the same skillet, pour in one cup of heavy cream. Bring it to a gentle simmer. Then, stir in half a cup of basil pesto. Mix it well. Now, add half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Finally, add the cooked tortellini and one cup of halved cherry tomatoes to your skillet. Toss everything together gently. Make sure the tortellini is well coated with the creamy pesto sauce. Cook for another two to three minutes on low heat. Taste it and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal! To boost the taste of your creamy pesto chicken tortellini, focus on fresh herbs. Fresh basil adds a bright note. You can also try adding a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty kick. For seasonings, consider red pepper flakes for heat or a pinch of Italian seasoning for depth. Always choose fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh garlic and ripe tomatoes will make a big difference. If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water. This will help loosen it without losing flavor. To thicken the sauce, let it simmer longer. You can also add more grated Parmesan cheese for a creamier texture. If you want a lighter sauce, try using half and half instead of heavy cream. This will keep your dish rich but less heavy. Use a non-stick skillet for even cooking. This helps to avoid sticking, making cleanup easier. A large spoon or spatula is great for mixing your tortellini and sauce. A sharp knife is essential for dicing chicken and mincing garlic. A measuring cup will help you get the right amounts of cream and pesto. Make sure you have a colander for draining the tortellini. These tools will make your cooking process smooth and fun. Pro Tips Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure your chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for the best texture and safety. Homemade Pesto Option: For an extra burst of flavor, consider making your own basil pesto with fresh ingredients; it can elevate the dish significantly. Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half for a creamier yet lighter feel. Cherry Tomato Freshness: Add the cherry tomatoes at the end of cooking to keep them juicy and vibrant, enhancing both flavor and presentation. {{image_2}} If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free tortellini. Many brands offer tasty choices that work well in this dish. You can find these in most grocery stores. If you want different proteins, consider shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a lovely flavor. Tofu is a great choice for a plant-based meal. Just make sure to press and season it well. To add more greens, try mixing in some fresh spinach or kale. These add color and nutrients. Just toss them in with the tortellini for a few minutes until they wilt down. You can also add sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor. They give a nice tang that pairs well with the creamy sauce. When serving, think about what pairs well. A fresh salad can balance the richness of the dish. A slice of crusty bread is great for soaking up the sauce. For a fun twist, use a large bowl or a platter to serve. You can layer the tortellini, sauce, and tomatoes for a beautiful presentation. Top it off with fresh basil leaves to make it pop. To keep your creamy pesto chicken tortellini fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to let the dish cool before sealing. This helps prevent moisture buildup. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze the tortellini for up to three months. If freezing, use freezer-safe containers to avoid freezer burn. When you reheat your dish, do it gently to keep the texture nice. The best methods are using a microwave or a stovetop. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between to heat evenly. On the stovetop, warm over low heat. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce is too thick. Taste and adjust the seasoning, as flavors can mellow during storage. In the fridge, your creamy pesto chicken tortellini lasts about three days. In the freezer, it can stay good for up to three months. Look for signs of spoilage like an off smell or mold. If it smells funny or looks different, it’s best to toss it. Keeping an eye on your leftovers ensures you enjoy them safely and deliciously! Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Here’s how to prep for meal prep: - Cook the tortellini: Follow the package instructions, then drain and cool them. - Prepare the chicken: Cook the chicken and let it cool down. Store it in an airtight container. - Make the sauce: Combine cream, pesto, and cheese. Store it in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, just reheat everything in a skillet. Add the chilled tortellini and cherry tomatoes. This saves time and keeps flavors fresh. Absolutely! Using homemade pesto adds a fresh touch. Here are some benefits and things to think about: - Flavor: Homemade pesto can taste brighter and more vibrant. - Control: You can control the ingredients, like oil and nuts. - Storage: Homemade pesto usually lasts up to a week in the fridge. Store-bought pesto is quick and easy. It’s a great choice for busy days. Both options work well in this recipe. Tortellini shines in this dish for several reasons: - Nutritional benefits: Tortellini often has cheese or meat, adding protein. - Cooking ease: It cooks quickly, usually in just a few minutes. - Texture: The soft and chewy texture pairs well with creamy sauces. This makes tortellini a delicious and simple choice for your meal. Creamy pesto chicken tortellini is easy and delicious. We covered the key ingredients, from cheese tortellini to olive oil and fresh basil. I shared simple steps for cooking everything, making a rich sauce, and combining it all. Use my tips for flavor and texture. You can also try fun variations to fit diets or tastes. Store and reheat your leftovers well to enjoy later. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, and you can make it your own. Enjoy your cooking journey with creamy pesto chicken tortellini!$

Why I Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This creamy pesto chicken tortellini comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of basil pesto, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and delicious sauce that elevates the dish.
Versatile Meal: This recipe can easily be customized with your choice of vegetables or protein, allowing for endless variations.
Family-Friendly: With its cheesy tortellini and tender chicken, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Creamy Pesto Chicken Tortellini

– 12 oz cheese tortellini

– 2 chicken breasts, diced

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Additional Ingredients

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1/2 cup basil pesto

Optional Garnishes and Extras

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

In this dish, the cheese tortellini serves as a tasty base. It cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. The chicken gives protein and heartiness to each bite. Olive oil helps brown the chicken, adding depth to the flavor.

Garlic adds a nice kick. It brings warmth to the sauce. Heavy cream makes everything rich and smooth. The basil pesto adds bright, herbaceous notes. It really ties the dish together.

Garnishing with grated Parmesan cheese gives a salty touch. Halved cherry tomatoes add freshness and color. Fresh basil leaves on top brighten the plate. These extras make the dish look appealing and add extra flavor.

This dish is simple yet satisfying. You can find most of these items in your kitchen. If you love a tasty meal, gather these ingredients and get ready to cook!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Tortellini

First, cook the cheese tortellini. Follow the package instructions for best results. Once it is cooked, drain it well. Set it aside while you prepare the rest.

Cooking the Chicken

Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add two tablespoons of olive oil and let it warm up. Now, add the diced chicken breasts. Sprinkle salt and pepper on top. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure it turns golden brown and is fully cooked. After that, add two cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for one to two minutes until you smell the garlic.

Making the Creamy Pesto Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in one cup of heavy cream. Bring it to a gentle simmer. Then, stir in half a cup of basil pesto. Mix it well. Now, add half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.

Combining and Serving

Finally, add the cooked tortellini and one cup of halved cherry tomatoes to your skillet. Toss everything together gently. Make sure the tortellini is well coated with the creamy pesto sauce. Cook for another two to three minutes on low heat. Taste it and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Tips & Tricks

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

To boost the taste of your creamy pesto chicken tortellini, focus on fresh herbs. Fresh basil adds a bright note. You can also try adding a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty kick. For seasonings, consider red pepper flakes for heat or a pinch of Italian seasoning for depth. Always choose fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh garlic and ripe tomatoes will make a big difference.

Consistency Adjustments

If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water. This will help loosen it without losing flavor. To thicken the sauce, let it simmer longer. You can also add more grated Parmesan cheese for a creamier texture. If you want a lighter sauce, try using half and half instead of heavy cream. This will keep your dish rich but less heavy.

Kitchen Tools to Use

Use a non-stick skillet for even cooking. This helps to avoid sticking, making cleanup easier. A large spoon or spatula is great for mixing your tortellini and sauce. A sharp knife is essential for dicing chicken and mincing garlic. A measuring cup will help you get the right amounts of cream and pesto. Make sure you have a colander for draining the tortellini. These tools will make your cooking process smooth and fun.

Pro Tips

Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure your chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for the best texture and safety.
Homemade Pesto Option: For an extra burst of flavor, consider making your own basil pesto with fresh ingredients; it can elevate the dish significantly.
Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half for a creamier yet lighter feel.
Cherry Tomato Freshness: Add the cherry tomatoes at the end of cooking to keep them juicy and vibrant, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

Variations

Substitutions for Dietary Preferences

If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free tortellini. Many brands offer tasty choices that work well in this dish. You can find these in most grocery stores. If you want different proteins, consider shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a lovely flavor. Tofu is a great choice for a plant-based meal. Just make sure to press and season it well.

Flavor Twist Ideas

To add more greens, try mixing in some fresh spinach or kale. These add color and nutrients. Just toss them in with the tortellini for a few minutes until they wilt down. You can also add sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor. They give a nice tang that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

When serving, think about what pairs well. A fresh salad can balance the richness of the dish. A slice of crusty bread is great for soaking up the sauce. For a fun twist, use a large bowl or a platter to serve. You can layer the tortellini, sauce, and tomatoes for a beautiful presentation. Top it off with fresh basil leaves to make it pop.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your creamy pesto chicken tortellini fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to let the dish cool before sealing. This helps prevent moisture buildup. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze the tortellini for up to three months. If freezing, use freezer-safe containers to avoid freezer burn.

How to Reheat Properly

When you reheat your dish, do it gently to keep the texture nice. The best methods are using a microwave or a stovetop. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between to heat evenly. On the stovetop, warm over low heat. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce is too thick. Taste and adjust the seasoning, as flavors can mellow during storage.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, your creamy pesto chicken tortellini lasts about three days. In the freezer, it can stay good for up to three months. Look for signs of spoilage like an off smell or mold. If it smells funny or looks different, it’s best to toss it. Keeping an eye on your leftovers ensures you enjoy them safely and deliciously!

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Here’s how to prep for meal prep:

– Cook the tortellini: Follow the package instructions, then drain and cool them.

– Prepare the chicken: Cook the chicken and let it cool down. Store it in an airtight container.

– Make the sauce: Combine cream, pesto, and cheese. Store it in the fridge.

When you are ready to eat, just reheat everything in a skillet. Add the chilled tortellini and cherry tomatoes. This saves time and keeps flavors fresh.

Is it possible to use homemade pesto?

Absolutely! Using homemade pesto adds a fresh touch. Here are some benefits and things to think about:

– Flavor: Homemade pesto can taste brighter and more vibrant.

– Control: You can control the ingredients, like oil and nuts.

– Storage: Homemade pesto usually lasts up to a week in the fridge.

Store-bought pesto is quick and easy. It’s a great choice for busy days. Both options work well in this recipe.

What makes tortellini a great option for this dish?

Tortellini shines in this dish for several reasons:

– Nutritional benefits: Tortellini often has cheese or meat, adding protein.

– Cooking ease: It cooks quickly, usually in just a few minutes.

– Texture: The soft and chewy texture pairs well with creamy sauces.

This makes tortellini a delicious and simple choice for your meal.

Creamy pesto chicken tortellini is easy and delicious. We covered the key ingredients, from cheese tortellini to olive oil and fresh basil. I shared simple steps for cooking everything, making a rich sauce, and combining it all. Use my tips for flavor and texture. You can also try fun variations to fit diets or tastes. Store and reheat your leftovers well to enjoy later. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, and you can make it your own. Enjoy your cooking journey with creamy pesto chicken tortellin

Creamy Pesto Chicken Tortellini

A delicious and creamy pasta dish with chicken, tortellini, and pesto.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4

Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients

12 oz cheese tortellini
2 pieces chicken breasts, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
0.5 cup basil pesto
0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
to taste salt and pepper
for garnish fresh basil leaves

Instructions

Cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and let it heat up.
Add the diced chicken breasts to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is combined.
Add the cooked tortellini and cherry tomatoes to the skillet, gently tossing everything together until the tortellini is well coated in the creamy pesto sauce.
Cook for another 2-3 minutes on low heat to heat through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

Garnish with fresh basil for added flavor.

Keyword chicken, creamy, pasta, pesto, tortellini