Quick and Easy One-Skillet Chicken Pesto Tortellini
Try this Quick and Easy One-Skillet Chicken Pesto Tortellini recipe.
Try this Quick and Easy One-Skillet Chicken Pesto Tortellini recipe.
- salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup chopped fresh baby spinach
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup pine nuts toasted
- 3 small boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1/2 inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons basil pesto
- 12 ounces fresh cheese tortellini (found by the deli)
- 1/4 cup sundried tomatoes (i buy them already julienned an
- Carbohydrate 12.5365925064197 g
- Cholesterol 126.061562508781 mg
- Fat 31.2292481452848 g
- Fiber 1.04895001440506 g
- Protein 50.5485868811253 g
- Saturated Fat 6.8518452528181 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (484g)
- Sodium 480.095268424377 mg
- Sugar 11.4876424920147 g
- Trans Fat 4.23126912781282 g
- Calories 531 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium-high heat.
- When the pan is hot, add cubed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
- Allow the chicken to brown on all sides. Don't stir constantly, but let the chicken sear.
- When the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden sear, remove it from the pan and set aside.
- Add another tablespoon of butter and a tablespoon of flour to the pan with the chicken drippings, and stir to loosen the brown bits.
- Add the chicken or vegetable stock, and pesto and whisk.
- When the sauce is simmering, add the fresh pasta and cover.
- Turn the heat down to medium-low and simmer for 3-5 minutes. Stir halfway through.
- Add the chicken, sundried tomatoes, spinach, toasted pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese.
- Cook for 1-2 more minutes on low, to wilt the spinach and warm the chicken.
- Serve immediately.
Quick and Easy One-Skillet Chicken Pesto Tortellini: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between work deadlines, school pick-ups, and the endless to-do list, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That's why I'm constantly on the lookout for quick and easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor or nutrition. This One-Skillet Chicken Pesto Tortellini recipe has become a weeknight staple in my home, and I'm thrilled to share it with you.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Everything cooks together in one skillet, minimizing cleanup and maximizing efficiency. The combination of tender chicken, creamy pesto sauce, and perfectly cooked tortellini is simply irresistible. It's a complete meal in itself, packed with protein, healthy fats, and just the right amount of carbs to keep you satisfied without feeling overly full. Plus, the vibrant colors of the spinach and sundried tomatoes make it a visually appealing dish, adding a touch of elegance to even the busiest weeknights.
I usually prep the ingredients ahead of time – chopping the chicken and spinach, toasting the pine nuts – so the actual cooking time is a mere 20 minutes. This makes it a perfect option for those days when you're short on time but still want a wholesome and flavorful meal. The kids love it too, which is a huge bonus! The pesto adds a delightful depth of flavor that appeals to even the pickiest eaters. I often serve it with a simple side salad for a complete and balanced dinner.
Beyond the Weeknight: While this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, it's also versatile enough for a casual weekend lunch or even a light dinner party. The vibrant colors and delicious aroma make it a conversation starter, and the ease of preparation allows you to enjoy your guests' company rather than being stuck in the kitchen. I've experimented with adding different vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, to adapt it to what's in season or what I have on hand. You could also swap the chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Tips and Tricks for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a lot of chicken, it's best to cook it in batches to ensure it browns properly.
- Toast the pine nuts: Toasting the pine nuts brings out their nutty flavor and adds a lovely crunch to the dish.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil pesto and spinach make a significant difference in the overall flavor and freshness of the dish.
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and pesto to suit your taste preferences.
- Make it your own: Experiment with different types of pasta, vegetables, or protein to create your own unique variation of this recipe.
This Quick and Easy One-Skillet Chicken Pesto Tortellini recipe is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the fact that delicious, healthy, and convenient food can coexist. It's a recipe that has simplified my weeknights and brought joy to my family. I hope it does the same for you!
