Creamy Pesto Chicken Tortellini

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the allure of creamy pasta. The rich, indulgent textures and flavors provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. One such dish that embodies this charm is Creamy Pesto Chicken Tortellini. This recipe artfully combines the velvety goodness of a creamy sauce with the fresh, aromatic notes of basil pesto, all while incorporating the heartiness of chicken and tender tortellini. Whether you're seeking a quick and satisfying meal for a busy weeknight or a dish that impresses guests at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to deliver.

Savor the ultimate comfort food with Creamy Pesto Chicken Tortellini, a dish that combines rich, creamy textures with fresh basil pesto, tender chicken, and delightful tortellini. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this recipe is versatile and adaptable to various tastes. Featuring colorful vegetables like cherry tomatoes and spinach, it’s visually stunning and full of flavor. Dive into this comforting meal and explore endless customizations for an unforgettable experience!

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Ingredients

12 oz fresh or frozen cheese tortellini

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup baby spinach

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Tortellini:

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Chicken & Garlic:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. If using pre-cooked chicken, add it to the skillet and warm through for about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Create the Creamy Base:

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, stirring well to combine with the chicken and garlic. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Add Pesto and Spinach:

Stir in the basil pesto and baby spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.

Combine Tortellini:

Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, gently tossing to ensure all the pasta is well coated with the creamy pesto sauce.

Incorporate Cherry Tomatoes:

Carefully fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and heat through, allowing them to warm for an additional 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Finish with Parmesan:

Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated.

Serve:

Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve immediately for a comforting, creamy pasta dish.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 30 min | 4 servings