Zesty Pesto Chicken Tortellini

Pesto Chicken Tortellini comes together in this one-pot, easy and quick dinner with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil!

Pair this delicious recipe with a Cucumber Salad, Fruit Salad, or Panzanella Salad!

Overhead shot of Pesto Chicken Tortellini, still in the pot, ready to be served. A vibrant, simple, and satisfying one-pot meal for dinner.

One-Pot Pesto Chicken Tortellini: Your New Favorite Quick & Easy Weeknight Meal

Discover the ultimate solution for busy weeknights with this incredibly simple yet profoundly flavorful One-Pot Pesto Chicken Tortellini. This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a culinary embrace in a bowl, meticulously crafted to deliver a wholesome, satisfying, and quick meal without the fuss. Our family consistently ranks this recipe as a top favorite, and its appeal is undeniable. The true genius lies in its one-pot preparation, which drastically minimizes cleanup while maximizing the depth of flavor. Imagine succulent, perfectly seasoned chicken mingling with rich, cheesy tortellini, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, and a luxurious basil pesto sauce that elegantly binds every ingredient together. It’s a meal that reliably garners eager requests from both children and adults, offering a superb balance of lean protein, fresh vegetables, and an unforgettable taste experience. Say goodbye to piles of dishes and hello to more quality time; a delicious, balanced, and easy-to-prepare dinner is now within your reach.

Process shot showing all the fresh ingredients laid out before cooking Pesto Chicken Tortellini, including chicken breasts, tortellini, basil pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This One-Pot Pesto Chicken Tortellini

This Pesto Chicken Tortellini isn’t just a recipe; it’s a lifestyle upgrade for anyone seeking flavorful meals without the kitchen chaos. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your rotation:

  • Unbeatable Convenience: The “one-pot” promise is real. From cooking the tortellini to sautéing the chicken and simmering the sauce, everything happens in a single pan. This means drastically less cleanup, liberating you from dish duty and giving you precious extra time back in your evening.
  • Lightning-Fast Preparation: In today’s fast-paced world, quick dinners are essential. This recipe is designed to go from pantry to plate in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice for unexpected cravings or those evenings when time is simply not on your side. It’s a homemade meal that rivals the speed of takeout, but with superior taste and freshness.
  • Explosion of Fresh Flavors: Despite its rapid assembly, this dish is anything but bland. The harmonious blend of savory chicken, rich cheese tortellini, the sweet-tart intensity of sun-dried tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and the bright, herbaceous notes of basil pesto creates a truly dynamic flavor profile that delights the senses.
  • Family-Friendly Appeal: This dish is a proven winner with eaters of all ages. The tender chicken and beloved cheesy tortellini make it an instant hit with children, while adults appreciate the sophisticated blend of flavors. It’s a rare gem that satisfies everyone at the dinner table.
  • Nutritious and Wholesome: Crafted with lean chicken breasts, wholesome tortellini, and nutrient-dense sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, this meal offers a balanced nutritional profile. It’s a comforting dish you can feel good about serving, knowing your family is getting quality ingredients.
  • Incredibly Versatile: This recipe serves as a fantastic foundation for culinary creativity. It’s easily adaptable to different dietary preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Want to add more vegetables? Try a different protein? This dish welcomes your personal touch with open arms.

Embrace the simplicity and savor the extraordinary flavor. This Pesto Chicken Tortellini is more than just a meal; it’s a smart choice for delicious, stress-free dining.

Key Ingredients for Pesto Chicken Tortellini: What You’ll Need

The beauty of this One-Pot Pesto Chicken Tortellini lies in its concise list of high-impact ingredients. Each component contributes significantly to the overall deliciousness, proving that you don’t need dozens of items to create a gourmet-quality meal. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the stars of our show:

  • Buitoni Three-Cheese Tortellini: We specifically recommend Buitoni for its superior quality. These fresh, delicate pasta pockets are filled with a delectable blend of three cheeses, providing a rich and comforting base that cooks quickly and absorbs the pesto sauce beautifully. Their tender texture is key to this dish’s appeal.
  • Basil Pesto Sauce: The heart of this recipe’s flavor. A high-quality basil pesto, whether store-bought for ultimate convenience or freshly homemade, is non-negotiable. Its vibrant green hue and aromatic blend of basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, and olive oil infuse the entire dish with irresistible Mediterranean flair.
  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Our choice for lean protein. Cut into uniform, bite-sized pieces, chicken breasts cook quickly and evenly, becoming tender and juicy. They absorb the seasonings and the rich flavors of the pesto and sun-dried tomatoes beautifully.
  • Flavorful Seasonings: A simple yet effective blend is used to season the chicken:
    • Paprika: Adds a hint of warmth and a beautiful reddish color to the chicken.
    • Italian Seasoning: Aromatic and classic, this blend of herbs (like oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary) instantly transports your dish to Italy.
    • Salt and Pepper: Fundamental for enhancing all the other flavors and ensuring the chicken is perfectly seasoned.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Oil: These intensely flavored little gems are a true secret weapon. Their concentrated, sweet-tart, and umami-rich taste adds a profound depth and delightful chewiness to the pasta. Crucially, the oil they are packed in is gold—it’s infused with their flavor and is perfect for sautéing, adding an extra layer of richness to your dish.
  • Fresh Basil Sprig: Used both in the cooking process to infuse the oil and as a vibrant garnish, fresh basil elevates the aroma and visually brightens the plate, reinforcing the fresh pesto notes.
  • Freshly Minced Garlic: The aromatic backbone of many Italian dishes. Minced garlic, briefly sautéed, creates a fragrant foundation that perfectly complements the pesto and tomatoes.
  • Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing. While regular extra virgin olive oil works, using the flavorful oil reserved from the sun-dried tomatoes is a brilliant hack for boosting the overall taste profile.
  • All-Purpose Flour: A small amount of flour is used to lightly coat the chicken. This helps create a better sear, locking in juices and allowing the seasonings to adhere more effectively, contributing to a golden, flavorful exterior.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese: A final flourish! A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the finished dish adds a salty, nutty, and savory dimension, along with a hint of creamy texture that’s simply irresistible.

With these carefully selected ingredients, you’re not just cooking; you’re crafting a masterpiece of flavor and convenience.

Process shot showing a small bowl of vibrant green basil pesto, ready to be incorporated into the Pesto Chicken Tortellini.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your One-Pot Pesto Chicken Tortellini

Creating this flavorful One-Pot Pesto Chicken Tortellini is not only straightforward but also incredibly satisfying. Follow these detailed instructions to ensure a perfect, restaurant-quality meal right from your kitchen, all while maintaining the ease of a single pot!

  1. Cook the Tortellini: Start by bringing a large, nonstick pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Salting the water is crucial for infusing flavor directly into the pasta. Once the water is vigorously boiling, add your Buitoni Three-Cheese Tortellini. Cook according to the package directions, which typically takes only 3-5 minutes, aiming for an al dente texture. It’s important to avoid overcooking at this stage, as the tortellini will continue to warm and soften slightly later. Once cooked, drain the tortellini thoroughly and set it aside, making sure to reserve the same pot for the subsequent steps to honor our “one-pot” philosophy.
  2. Prepare and Season the Chicken: While your tortellini is cooking, prepare the chicken. If you chose to marinate your chicken in buttermilk (a step highly recommended for enhanced tenderness and flavor, as detailed in Note 1), drain it well before proceeding. For unmarinated chicken, simply cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Pat the chicken pieces thoroughly dry with paper towels; this critical step helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown sear. In a small bowl, combine your seasonings: ½ teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Toss the chicken pieces with this spice blend until each piece is fully coated. Finally, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the seasoned chicken and toss again, ensuring a light, even coating.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Cook the Chicken: Return the same large nonstick pot to your stove. Add 3 tablespoons of the reserved olive oil from your jar of sun-dried tomatoes (or regular olive oil if you prefer) and heat it over medium heat for about 30 seconds. This flavored oil will contribute an extra layer of deliciousness to the dish. Add one sprig of fresh basil and the 2 cloves of minced garlic to the hot oil. Stir gently for another 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the coated chicken pieces to the pot, spreading them out in a single layer as much as possible. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, for approximately 5-7 minutes, until it’s beautifully golden brown on all sides and cooked through, with no pink remaining inside. If the pot starts to dry out, add a little more sun-dried tomato oil as needed.
  4. Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Once the chicken is almost fully cooked, carefully remove and discard the basil sprig, as it has now imparted its flavor. Add the ½ cup of coarsely chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the pot with the chicken. Sauté them together for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing their intense, sweet-tart flavors to meld wonderfully with the chicken. The gentle heat will soften the tomatoes further and release their rich essence.
  5. Combine Tortellini with Chicken: Reduce the heat to low. Gently add the drained tortellini back into the pot with the seasoned chicken and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir very carefully for 1–2 minutes, just enough to thoroughly warm the tortellini through and combine all the ingredients without breaking the delicate pasta. Immediately remove the pot from the heat at this stage to preserve the vibrant color and fresh flavor of the pesto.
  6. Stir in the Pesto and Finish Seasoning: Now for the grand finale! Stir in the 1 (7-ounce) container of basil pesto. If you desire a slightly looser sauce consistency or an extra boost of flavor, you can also add 1–2 tablespoons of additional oil from the sun-dried tomatoes. Taste the dish and adjust the seasonings as needed. A pinch more salt, pepper, or even a dash of red pepper flakes can enhance the profile to your personal preference.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Ladle generous portions of your spectacular Pesto Chicken Tortellini into individual bowls. Garnish each serving with a scattering of fresh basil leaves and a liberal sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an irresistible finish. Serve immediately and relish the incredible flavors of your homemade One-Pot Pesto Chicken Tortellini!

This detailed, step-by-step approach ensures that every component is perfectly cooked and seasoned, resulting in a cohesive and utterly mouthwatering dish that’s truly restaurant-worthy, all from the convenience of a single pot.

Process shot showing chicken pieces and chopped sun-dried tomatoes being sautéed together in a large nonstick pot.

Expert Tips for Crafting the Perfect Pesto Chicken Tortellini

While this Pesto Chicken Tortellini recipe is inherently simple, a few expert tips can elevate your dish from delicious to absolutely unforgettable. Pay attention to these nuances for optimal results:

  • Avoid Overcooking Tortellini: Fresh tortellini cooks incredibly fast. Follow package instructions closely and aim for al dente; the pasta should still have a slight bite. Overcooked tortellini can become mushy, detracting from the overall texture. Remember, it will continue to warm up when combined with the chicken and sauce.
  • Thoroughly Dry Your Chicken: This is a crucial step for achieving perfectly browned and flavorful chicken. Excess moisture on the chicken surface will cause it to steam rather than sear, preventing that desirable golden crust and deep, rich flavor development. Patting with paper towels makes all the difference.
  • Leverage Sun-Dried Tomato Oil: Don’t pour out the oil from your jar of sun-dried tomatoes! This flavorful oil is a hidden gem, imbued with the rich essence of tomatoes. Use it to sauté your chicken and garlic; it adds an incredible depth and a nuanced Mediterranean flavor to the entire dish that simple olive oil can’t replicate.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, ensure there’s enough space in the pot for the pieces to sear, not steam. If your pot is too full, cook the chicken in two batches. Overcrowding lowers the pan’s temperature and inhibits proper browning, leading to less flavorful chicken.
  • Add Pesto Off the Heat: For the most vibrant flavor and color, always stir in the basil pesto after you’ve removed the pot from the direct heat. High temperatures can cause the delicate basil in the pesto to oxidize, resulting in a duller color and a diminished fresh flavor.
  • Always Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, take a moment to taste your creation. Adjust the salt, pepper, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a subtle kick. A final seasoning adjustment can balance all the flavors and truly make the dish sing.
  • Consider a Buttermilk Marinade: As detailed in Note 1 of the recipe card, marinating the chicken in buttermilk for even 30 minutes (or up to 4-6 hours) yields incredibly tender and juicy results. The lactic acid in buttermilk gently tenderizes the meat without making it tough, adding a subtle tang that complements the pesto beautifully.
  • Generous Garnish is Key: A final scattering of fresh basil leaves and freshly grated Parmesan cheese isn’t just for aesthetics. The fresh basil provides an aromatic lift and a burst of green, while the Parmesan adds a salty, umami, and nutty finish that completes the dish perfectly.

By incorporating these expert tips, you’ll ensure that your One-Pot Pesto Chicken Tortellini is a resounding success, earning rave reviews from everyone who gathers at your table.

Customization and Creative Variations for Your Pesto Chicken Tortellini

One of the most delightful aspects of this Pesto Chicken Tortellini recipe is its remarkable flexibility. It serves as a perfect canvas for culinary creativity, allowing you to easily adapt it to your personal tastes, dietary requirements, or whatever ingredients you happen to have on hand. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it uniquely yours! Here are some inspiring ideas to get you started:

  • Explore Different Proteins:
    • Shrimp: For a delightful seafood twist, replace the chicken with shrimp. Add raw shrimp to the pot after the garlic, cooking for only 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them, proceed with the sun-dried tomatoes and tortellini, then stir the cooked shrimp back in at the very end to prevent overcooking.
    • Italian Sausage: Brown crumbled mild or spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken. Ensure to drain any excess fat before continuing with the recipe for a richer, more robust flavor.
    • Plant-Based Options: For a hearty vegetarian meal, omit the chicken entirely. You can substitute with plant-based chicken strips, add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or cannellini beans for protein, or simply enhance the dish with more vegetables.
  • Boost Your Vegetable Intake:
    • Fresh Spinach or Arugula: Stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach or arugula during the final step. The residual heat will quickly wilt them, adding a healthy boost of greens and a touch of freshness.
    • Cherry or Grape Tomatoes: Halved cherry or grape tomatoes can be added alongside the sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of fresh juiciness, or tossed in raw at the very end for a vibrant pop of color and a delightful textural contrast.
    • Mushrooms or Bell Peppers: Sauté sliced mushrooms or diced bell peppers with the chicken to add extra flavor, texture, and nutritional value.
    • Roasted Red Peppers: Jarred roasted red peppers, drained and roughly chopped, can be stirred in with the pesto for a smoky, sweet flavor profile.
  • Cheese Variations:
    • While three-cheese tortellini is fantastic, feel free to experiment with other fresh tortellini varieties like spinach & ricotta, mushroom, or even a spicy pepper jack tortellini for an adventurous twist.
    • For an even creamier sauce, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese, mascarpone, or a splash of heavy cream along with the pesto.
    • Garnish with shaved Parmesan, tangy Pecorino Romano, or a dollop of fresh ricotta cheese for a luxurious, restaurant-style presentation.
  • Adjust the Spice Level: If you appreciate a bit of heat, add a generous pinch (or more!) of red pepper flakes along with the garlic or when you stir in the pesto. Start small and add more to your preference.
  • Explore Different Pesto Types: While classic basil pesto is brilliant, don’t hesitate to try a sun-dried tomato pesto for a deeper, richer tomato flavor, or even a nut-free pesto if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.
  • A Zesty Finish: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens all the flavors and adds a wonderfully zesty finish that makes the whole dish pop.

These variations showcase how easily this recipe can be tailored to your specific preferences, ensuring it remains a dynamic and exciting meal for every occasion, always promising a delicious outcome.

Perfect Pairings: Complementary Dishes for Pesto Chicken Tortellini

While our One-Pot Pesto Chicken Tortellini is a deliciously complete and satisfying meal on its own, pairing it with a thoughtfully chosen side dish can elevate the entire dining experience. The goal is often to provide a refreshing contrast, a light complement, or an additional textural element to balance the rich and creamy flavors of the tortellini and pesto. Here are our top recommendations for perfect pairings:

  • Fresh Italian Salad: A crisp, vibrant green salad with a light vinaigrette is a classic choice for good reason. It offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the pasta, cleansing the palate. Think mixed greens, crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and a simple dressing of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of Italian herbs.
  • Elegant Caprese Salad: To amplify the fresh basil notes within the main dish, serve a beautiful Caprese salad. Layers of ripe, red tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella slices, and fragrant basil leaves, drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, create a simple yet sophisticated accompaniment.
  • Simple Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables is always a healthy and delicious option. Asparagus, broccoli florets, zucchini slices, or colorful bell peppers tossed with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roasted until tender-crisp, provides an earthy flavor and appealing texture that complements the pasta wonderfully.
  • Roasted Asparagus with Tomato and Feta: For a slightly more substantial but still light side, consider roasted asparagus spears. When combined with sweet, burst cherry tomatoes and salty, crumbly feta cheese, this side offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors that enhance the Mediterranean essence of your Pesto Chicken Tortellini.
  • Warm Garlic Bread or Focaccia: You can rarely go wrong with a classic! A warm, crusty slice of garlic bread or a soft, herbed focaccia is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious pesto sauce, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.
  • Refreshing Cucumber Salad: As mentioned in our introduction, a cool, crisp, and slightly tangy cucumber salad provides a refreshing textural and flavor contrast to the warm and savory pasta, offering a palate-cleansing element.
  • Light Fruit Salad: For a truly refreshing and light contrast, a fresh fruit salad can be a wonderful choice. Opt for fruits with bright, acidic notes like berries, citrus segments, or melon to cut through the richness of the pasta.
  • Hearty Panzanella Salad: If you’re looking for a more substantial salad, a Tuscan Panzanella salad is excellent. Its combination of crusty bread, ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, red onions, and a zesty dressing adds wonderful texture and flavor, and the bread will happily absorb any residual sauce.

Choose your favorite, or mix and match, to create a complete and unforgettable meal that is sure to impress every palate.

Overhead image of the finished Pesto Chicken Tortellini in the cooking pan, garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan, ready to be served.

Storage and Meal Prep: Keeping Your Pesto Chicken Tortellini Fresh

This One-Pot Pesto Chicken Tortellini is not only a delight when freshly made, but it also stands up beautifully to meal prepping and makes for fantastic leftovers. Proper storage is key to ensuring its vibrant flavors remain intact and its texture appealing for days to come. Here’s how to best store and reheat your delicious dish:

  • Refrigeration for Short-Term Storage:
    • Always allow any leftover Pesto Chicken Tortellini to cool completely to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation and keeps the food safe.
    • Transfer the cooled pasta and chicken to an airtight container.
    • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Beyond this timeframe, the pasta may begin to soften slightly, but it will still be perfectly safe and enjoyable to eat.
  • Freezing for Long-Term Storage:
    • For extended storage, this dish freezes surprisingly well. Once completely cooled, divide portions into individual airtight, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
    • Press out as much air as possible from freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. Label each container or bag with the date.
    • The Pesto Chicken Tortellini can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
  • Reheating from the Refrigerator:
    • Microwave Method: For a quick reheat, place a single portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely (to retain moisture) and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until thoroughly warmed through. If the dish seems a bit dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water before reheating.
    • Stovetop Method (Recommended for Best Texture): For the best results in reviving the dish’s texture and flavor, transfer leftovers to a nonstick pan. Add a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring gently and occasionally, until the tortellini and chicken are warmed through. This method helps to rehydrate the pasta and sauce, bringing it closer to its fresh state.
  • Reheating from Frozen:
    • Microwave Method: Place the frozen tortellini in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely and microwave on 50% power for 3-4 minutes to begin thawing, then stir and continue heating at full power for another 2-3 minutes, or until piping hot. You will likely need to add a small amount of liquid (water or broth) during the reheating process.
    • Stovetop Method (Optimal for Frozen): Ideally, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, follow the stovetop reheating instructions for refrigerated leftovers. If reheating directly from frozen on the stovetop, use a covered pot over very low heat with a few tablespoons of water or broth, stirring frequently and gently until heated through. Be patient to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.
  • Meal Prep Efficiency: This recipe is an excellent candidate for advance preparation! Consider making a large batch at the beginning of the week and portioning it into individual containers. This provides quick and easy lunches or dinners for several days. You can also prep components like the seasoned chicken and chopped sun-dried tomatoes a day ahead to streamline your cooking process on the day you plan to serve.

With these comprehensive storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy the comforting and delightful flavors of your Pesto Chicken Tortellini whenever the craving strikes, making meal times effortless and consistently delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pesto Chicken Tortellini

To help you master this delicious dish, here are answers to some of the most common questions you might have about making One-Pot Pesto Chicken Tortellini:

  • Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh? Absolutely! If using frozen tortellini, simply follow the package instructions for cooking. Generally, frozen tortellini can be added directly to boiling water, often requiring just a minute or two longer to cook than fresh tortellini to reach that perfect al dente texture.
  • What kind of pesto is best for this recipe? A high-quality basil pesto is highly recommended for the most authentic and vibrant flavor profile. Store-bought options are perfectly acceptable for convenience; just look for one with fresh ingredients and a good olive oil base. If you have access to or prefer homemade pesto, that will truly elevate the dish.
  • Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, easily! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken. You can enhance the dish by adding extra vegetables such as sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, or include a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or cannellini beans for added protein and heartiness.
  • Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Certainly! Chicken thighs would add an even richer flavor and tend to stay incredibly moist due to their higher fat content. If using thighs, cut them into bite-sized pieces as well, and note that they might require a slightly longer cooking time than breasts to cook through completely.
  • How can I make the sauce creamier? If you desire a richer, creamier sauce, you can stir in about 1/4 cup of heavy cream, half-and-half, or even a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone along with the pesto at the very end. This will add a luxurious texture without overpowering the pesto flavor.
  • What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes? Can I substitute them? While sun-dried tomatoes contribute a unique and intense flavor, if you don’t have them, you can substitute with a handful of chopped fresh cherry or grape tomatoes. Add them during the last minute of chicken cooking. They won’t have the same intensity but will still add a pleasant fresh tomato element.
  • Can I add other vegetables to this dish? Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Sautéed spinach, diced zucchini, sliced mushrooms, steamed broccoli florets, or even jarred roasted red peppers (added with the pesto) would all be delicious additions to boost flavor and nutrition.
  • Is this dish spicy? Not inherently. The recipe calls for standard seasonings like salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Red pepper flakes are an optional addition for those who enjoy a bit of heat. You can control the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes according to your preference.

We hope these FAQs empower you to confidently prepare and even customize this fantastic one-pot meal, making it a regular and celebrated part of your dinner repertoire!

More Delicious One-Pot Wonders & Quick Dinner Ideas

If you’ve enjoyed the sheer ease and incredible flavor of this Pesto Chicken Tortellini, you’ll be delighted to explore more of our collection! We specialize in crafting simple, satisfying, and quick meals that never compromise on taste, making weeknight dinners exciting and stress-free. Here are some of our other favorite pasta dishes that are perfect for any occasion:

  • Chicken Parmesan Meatballs over Pasta: Indulge in all the beloved flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan, reinvented in an easy-to-enjoy meatball form. These tender, cheesy meatballs are fantastic served over your favorite pasta, generously coated in a rich marinara sauce, offering a comforting and hearty meal that tastes gourmet but is surprisingly simple to whip up.
  • Cheese Stuffed Meatballs with Homemade Marinara: Elevate your meatball experience with these delectable, juicy meatballs, each one hiding a gooey mozzarella center. Paired with a vibrant homemade marinara sauce, they create an irresistible combination of savory and cheesy goodness that pairs perfectly with any type of pasta.
  • Roasted Veggie Ravioli with Pesto: A fantastic and vibrant vegetarian option that’s both quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Tender ravioli is tossed with a colorful assortment of perfectly roasted seasonal vegetables and bright, aromatic pesto for a wholesome, satisfying, and incredibly fresh dish.
  • Super Simple Pesto Pasta: For the ultimate in speed and simplicity, this classic Pesto Pasta recipe is an undeniable winner. Requiring just pasta and pesto (and perhaps a sprinkle of Parmesan), it’s a dinner that can be on the table in mere minutes, proving just how incredible a few high-quality ingredients can be when brought together.
  • Comforting and Creamy Sausage Pasta: A hearty and incredibly comforting dish that features savory Italian sausage enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce. This recipe is rich, deeply flavorful, and immensely satisfying, making it an ideal choice for cooler evenings or whenever you crave a truly warming and fulfilling meal.

These recipes offer a diverse array of flavors and textures, ensuring that your journey for easy, delicious, and inspiring meals continues to be a joyful and successful one. Happy cooking, and enjoy discovering your next family favorite!

Pesto Chicken Tortellini in a pot, garnished with basil and Parmesan, ready to be served
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5 from 11 votes

One-Pot Pesto Chicken Tortellini

By

Chelsea Lords
This one-pot Pesto Chicken Tortellini is a game-changer! Tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and sun-dried tomatoes come together in a rich pesto sauce with fresh basil for a quick and easy meal.
Prep Time:

20

Total Time:

20

Servings:

4
servings

Equipment

  • Large nonstick pot

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup buttermilk optional, see Note 1
  • 1 (20-ounce) package Buitoni Three Cheese Tortellini
  • 1/2 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 2 small, see Note 1
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil I use the sun-dried tomato oil from the tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • Fresh basil sprig optional, for cooking and garnish
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil coarsely chopped (and reserved sun-dried tomato oil for this recipe)
  • 1 (7-ounce) container basil pesto about 1/2 cup plus 3 to 4 tablespoons
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
  • Red pepper flakes optional, for heat

Instructions

  • Bring a large nonstick pot of salted water to boil. Follow package directions to cook tortellini until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving the same pot.
  • In a small bowl, stir together paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. If you marinated the chicken, drain it from the buttermilk. If not, cut chicken into even, bite-sized pieces. Pat chicken pieces thoroughly dry with paper towel and toss to coat in the seasoning mix. Add the flour on top and stir until chicken pieces are lightly coated.
  • In the same pot used for tortellini, add 3 tablespoons reserved olive oil from the sundried tomatoes. Heat on medium for about 30 seconds, then add a sprig of basil and the minced garlic. Stir for another 30 seconds until fragrant, then increase heat to medium-high and add the coated chicken. Cook chicken, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes, until cooked through and golden brown. If needed, add additional sun-dried tomato oil. When chicken is almost cooked through, remove the basil sprig and add the coarsely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing until chicken is fully cooked.
  • Add the drained tortellini back into the pot with the chicken and sun-dried tomatoes. Reduce heat to low. Gently stir for 1–2 minutes to warm through and combine, then remove from heat.
  • Stir in the basil pesto and 1–2 tablespoons of oil from the sun-dried tomatoes as desired for consistency and flavor. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper, and red pepper flakes if you prefer a little heat.
  • Serve immediately, garnishing plates with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Recipe Notes

Note 1 (Buttermilk Marinade for Chicken): For exceptionally tender and juicy chicken, consider marinating it ahead of time. Remove any fat from the chicken and cut into even, bite-sized pieces. Place in a large plastic bag or bowl and pour 1/2 cup buttermilk over; knead or stir to coat the chicken entirely. Place in the fridge and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4–6 hours, or until ready to use. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute: add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1/2 cup of regular milk. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes until it curdles slightly, then mix in with the chicken.

Note 2 (Serving & Garnish Ideas): Enhance your serving with optional additions such as a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat, extra fresh basil leaves for aroma, or a generous topping of Buitoni Grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, salty finish. Fresh cherry tomatoes, halved, also make a beautiful and delicious garnish.

Storage: Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 565kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.8g | Monounsaturated Fat: 19g | Cholesterol: 56mg | Sodium: 740mg | Potassium: 645mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1227IU | Vitamin C: 0.83mg | Calcium: 56mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation only. Factors such as specific brands, preparation methods, and optional ingredients can affect nutritional values.






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