Creamy Chicken Pesto Tortellini

If you’re craving a dish that combines the rich flavors of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant pesto with the comforting bite of cheese-filled tortellini, then this Creamy Chicken Pesto Tortellini recipe is exactly what you need. It’s an easy, satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet comes together quickly, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without the fuss. With every forkful, you get the perfect balance of savory and fresh, thanks to the homemade-style pesto, garlic, and Parmesan cheese that elevate this pasta to a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the addition of shredded cooked chicken makes it a wholesome, protein-packed dinner that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe box.

Why Cooks Rave About It

This Creamy Chicken Pesto Tortellini has quickly won over home cooks and food lovers alike for several reasons:

• Flavor harmony: The pesto’s bright basil notes blend seamlessly with the creamy Parmesan sauce, creating a luscious coating for every tortellini.
• Quick and simple: Using pre-cooked shredded chicken and store-bought tortellini means you’re just minutes away from a gourmet-feeling meal.
• Comfort food with a fresh twist: Unlike heavy cream sauces that can feel overwhelming, this recipe balances richness with herbaceous freshness.
• Customizable and versatile: Whether you want to add veggies or swap proteins, it adapts well to your preferences.

If you enjoy this recipe, you might also love the Pesto Chicken Mozzarella Stuffed Shells, another delightful way to savor the magic of pesto and chicken.

Shopping List

• 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated for best texture)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade basil pesto)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

What’s in the Gear List

• Large pot – for boiling tortellini
• Large skillet or sauté pan – to cook the garlic and combine all ingredients
• Colander – to drain pasta
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring the sauce
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure perfect ingredient ratios
• Cheese grater – if you’re grating fresh Parmesan

Method: Creamy Chicken Pesto Tortellini

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt, then drop in the 12 oz cheese tortellini. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until al dente. Drain the tortellini and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Warm Olive Oil

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 3: Add the Cooked Chicken

Toss in the 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken and stir to combine with the garlic and oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Step 4: Stir in Pesto and Cream

Reduce the heat to low and add 1/2 cup of pesto sauce and 1 cup of heavy cream to the skillet. Stir gently to combine, creating a smooth, creamy sauce.

Step 5: Incorporate Parmesan and Season

Sprinkle in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and fully incorporated. Taste the sauce and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.

Step 6: Combine with Tortellini

Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss gently until each piece is coated evenly with the creamy pesto sauce.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves to add a pop of color and fresh aroma. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Enjoy this comforting and elegant dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. If you’re looking for more creamy chicken pasta ideas, check out the Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne recipe, which is equally delicious.

Substitutions by Category

• Pasta: Replace cheese tortellini with spinach tortellini, ravioli, or even gnocchi for a different texture.
• Chicken: Use diced cooked turkey or even sautéed shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Pesto: Swap basil pesto for sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto for a unique flavor profile.
• Cream: For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
• Cheese: Instead of Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a sharper taste.

Method to the Madness

To make this recipe truly shine, keep these tips in mind:

• Use fresh basil pesto if possible: The herbal brightness is key to balancing the richness of the cream.
• Don’t overcook the tortellini: Al dente pasta holds the sauce better and maintains a lovely bite.
• Warm the cream gently: Avoid boiling it, which can cause the sauce to separate.
• Shred the chicken finely: So it blends seamlessly into the sauce and every bite has a bit of protein.
• Adjust seasoning at the end: Parmesan adds saltiness, so season gradually.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This dish is great for meal prep and leftovers:

• Store leftover creamy chicken pesto tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
• For freezing, place portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• If preparing ahead, cook the tortellini separately and keep sauce and pasta refrigerated separately to preserve texture.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen tortellini works well. Just add a minute or two to the cooking time, and make sure to drain them well before adding to the sauce to prevent it from becoming watery.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely. Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast for the cheesy flavor.

How do I make homemade pesto if I don’t want to buy it?

Homemade pesto is simple: blend fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts (or walnuts), Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust olive oil for desired consistency.

Can I add vegetables to the Creamy Chicken Pesto Tortellini?

Definitely! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers make excellent additions. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking to keep them fresh and vibrant.

Desserts to Finish

• Creamy Spinach Feta Chicken Orzo – A savory side idea to complement your meal.
• Pesto Chicken Mozzarella Stuffed Shells – Another pesto-packed pasta for your recipe rotation.
• Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne – Cheesy comfort food perfect for cozy nights.

Save & Share

If you love this Creamy Chicken Pesto Tortellini recipe as much as I do, don’t forget to bookmark it for your next weeknight dinner. Share it with your friends and family who appreciate quick, delicious meals with a gourmet touch. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this dish delivers every time.

This Creamy Chicken Pesto Tortellini recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can transform into a luxurious dinner experience. Rich, flavorful, and endlessly satisfying, it’s a dish that brings warmth and joy with every bite. Give it a try, and watch it become a favorite in your kitchen rotation.

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