Description
This creamy and flavorful Pesto Chicken Tortellini recipe combines tender cheese tortellini with shredded rotisserie chicken, rich pesto, and a luscious cream sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, this one-pan meal is perfect for a quick and comforting dinner that delivers Italian-inspired tastes with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Sauce and Pasta
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, or to taste)
- 1/4 cup pesto
- 1.5 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 (9 ounce) packages refrigerated cheese tortellini
Protein
- 2 cups shredded cooked or rotisserie chicken
Cheese and Seasoning
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute, stirring constantly to release its aroma without burning.
- Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (if using), 1/4 cup pesto, 1.5 cups chicken broth, and 1 cup heavy whipping cream. Mix well until smooth.
- Cook Tortellini in Sauce: Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the skillet. Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle bubble. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes. This process allows the tortellini to cook through while the sauce thickens as it absorbs released starch.
- Add Chicken and Heat Through: Stir in 2 cups shredded rotisserie or cooked chicken. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the chicken to warm thoroughly and the sauce to thicken to your preferred consistency. Add a splash more cream if the sauce reduces too much.
- Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Remove the pan from heat and stir in 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
- Use refrigerated tortellini for best texture and quicker cooking time.
- Rotisserie chicken adds convenience and rich flavor but cooked chicken breast can be used as an alternative.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes or omit depending on your heat preference.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it with additional chicken broth or cream.
- Fresh basil or grated Parmesan can be added as garnish for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
