One-Pan Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies : A Weeknight Wonder

If you’ve ever dreamed of a dinner that’s quick, flavorful, and made in a single pan, this One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies recipe will be your new favorite. Creamy, comforting, and loaded with color, this dish brings together tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and bright vegetables, all tossed in aromatic basil pesto.

It’s the perfect balance of comfort and freshness — a wholesome weeknight meal that feels gourmet but takes minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner, this easy skillet meal will impress everyone with its flavors and beautiful presentation.

If you love one-pan wonders like this, you might also enjoy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers or cozy pasta dishes such as Cheesy Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce.

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Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Dinner Recipe

This dish checks every box for the ideal weekday meal — fast, flavorful, balanced, and family-friendly.

🌿 One-pan simplicity: Everything cooks together in the same skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
🍗 Protein-packed: Tender chicken adds heartiness and flavor.
🍅 Loaded with veggies: Cherry tomatoes and spinach add freshness and nutrients.
🍝 Comfort food made light: Cheesy tortellini and herby pesto deliver creamy satisfaction without heavy sauces.
🥄 Ready in 30 minutes: Perfect for busy nights or last-minute guests.

For another balanced, flavorful dinner, try the Ground Turkey and Peppers Stir Fry or a Mediterranean-style One Pan Greek Vegetables Recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need for One-Pan Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

Here’s what you’ll need to create this beautiful and nourishing dish:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 9 ounces (250 g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
• ¼ cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• ¼ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Optional Add-Ins:

• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor
• A handful of fresh basil for garnish
• Toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch

Tip: Use high-quality basil pesto or make your own for a more vibrant, fresh flavor. You can also use kale or arugula pesto for a twist.

For another vegetable-forward meal, check out the Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes, Carrots, and Zucchini.

Choosing the Best Ingredients: One-Pan Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies

The key to this dish’s success lies in using fresh, high-quality ingredients:

• Chicken: Opt for chicken breasts or thighs for juicy, tender bites.
• Tortellini: Use refrigerated or fresh cheese tortellini for the best texture.
• Pesto: Homemade pesto with basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan makes all the difference.
• Veggies: Choose ripe cherry tomatoes and crisp baby spinach for color and flavor contrast.

For a vegetarian twist, try substituting chicken with roasted chickpeas or grilled zucchini.

Kitchen Equipment for Easy One-Pan Meals

You only need a few basic tools to bring this dish to life:

• Large non-stick skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs

Keeping it simple is part of the magic — one pan, one utensil, one quick dinner.

If you enjoy simple cooking setups, you’ll also love Crockpot Fajitas for another easy dinner solution.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making One-Pan Pesto Chicken and Tortellini

Follow these easy steps to create your perfect One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Tortellini
In the same skillet, add ½ cup of water (or chicken broth) and bring to a simmer. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually 3–5 minutes, until tender.

Step 3: Add the Veggies
Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2–3 minutes, just until they start to soften.

Step 4: Add the Chicken and Pesto
Return the chicken to the pan. Add pesto, heavy cream (if using), and toss everything together. Simmer for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Step 5: Finish and Serve
Add baby spinach and cook just until wilted. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top, drizzle with lemon juice if desired, and serve warm.

You can pair this dish with a side of Cheesy Zucchini Bread or a light Cucumber Dill Salad for a complete meal.

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Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken and Tender Tortellini

✔️ Cut chicken evenly so it cooks uniformly.
✔️ Don’t overcook the tortellini — it should be tender but firm.
✔️ Add pesto at the end to preserve its bright green color and fresh flavor.
✔️ Use a large skillet to avoid overcrowding the ingredients.
✔️ Finish with lemon juice to lift the flavors and balance richness.

For a lighter, plant-forward option, try Vegetarian Pasta Primavera, which also features fresh veggies and a bright sauce.

Vegetable Variations and Add-Ins for Custom Flavor

This dish is endlessly adaptable — perfect for using whatever vegetables you have on hand. Try:

• Asparagus or zucchini for spring freshness.
• Broccoli or green beans for more crunch.
• Mushrooms or artichokes for an earthy touch.
• Roasted red peppers for color and sweetness.

For added variety, you can toss in a handful of spinach ravioli instead of tortellini or add roasted cherry tomatoes for extra depth.

Healthy Swaps and Dietary Modifications for This Dish

If you’d like to make your One-Pan Pesto Chicken a bit lighter or fit specific dietary goals:

• Lower-calorie: Use light pesto or homemade pesto with less oil.
• Dairy-free: Skip the cream and use a coconut milk alternative.
• Gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free tortellini or zucchini noodles.
• Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas.

If you’re looking for other healthy weeknight inspiration, check out Ground Beef Wellington or Garlicky Kale with White Beans and Lemon.

Serving Ideas: Family Dinner and Weeknight Comfort Food

This pesto chicken tortellini is delicious served straight from the skillet, but here are a few ideas to elevate your presentation:

• Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan.
• Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for heat.
• Serve with garlic bread or Cheddar Bay Biscuits.
• Pair with a simple side salad for color and crunch.

You can also serve it alongside a lighter drink like Lavender Lemonade to balance the richness.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Pesto Chicken and Tortellini

To Store:
Cool leftovers completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

To Reheat:
Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving too long, as it can dry the pasta.

To Freeze:
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers (without spinach) for up to 1 month.

Pairing Ideas: Side Dishes and Light Salads

Serve this one-pan meal with easy sides for a balanced dinner:

• Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes
• Cottage Cheese Flatbread
• Cucumber Shrimp Salad
• Apple Crisp with Oatmeal for dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking One-Pan Pasta Recipes

❌ Overcrowding the pan – it prevents even cooking.
❌ Overcooking pasta – tortellini should stay al dente.
❌ Adding pesto too early – it can lose its flavor and color.
❌ Skipping seasoning – taste as you go for perfect balance.
❌ Ignoring texture – add veggies last to keep them crisp.

For more tips on quick, balanced dinners, try Slow Cooker Chicken Stew or Vegetarian Baked Ziti.

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Frequently Asked Questions About This Pesto Chicken Recipe

Q1: Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely! Just choose one with quality ingredients like olive oil and real Parmesan.

Q2: Can I make this ahead?
Yes — cook the chicken and tortellini, then toss with pesto right before serving.

Q3: Can I substitute another pasta?
Yes, ravioli or short pasta like penne also work well.

Q4: Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes — just cook it a few minutes longer, following the package directions.

Q5: What protein alternatives can I use?
Grilled shrimp, turkey, or tofu all pair beautifully with pesto.

Final Thoughts: A Simple, Flavorful One-Pan Meal You’ll Make Again and Again

This One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies recipe brings together everything we love about quick, satisfying dinners — it’s creamy, colorful, and ready in under 30 minutes. The combination of tender chicken, cheesy pasta, and garden-fresh veggies in fragrant pesto makes every bite a delight.

It’s the kind of dish that feels special yet effortless — a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something truly comforting.

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