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A vibrant chicken pesto tortellini skillet showcasing a high-protein pasta meal.

Classic Chicken Pesto Tortellini Skillet — high-protein pasta meal.

This classic chicken pesto tortellini skillet is a high-protein pasta meal featuring tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a flavorful pesto cream sauce cooked in one pan for an easy weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

  • large skillet or Dutch oven

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cooking Steps

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add cubed chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through (5-7 minutes); set aside.
  • Reduce heat to medium, add chopped onion and cook until softened (3-5 minutes), then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth, then bring to a simmer and scrape the pan to loosen any browned bits.
  • Add tortellini to the simmering liquid, stir, cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes until al dente and liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally.
  • Return chicken to the skillet, stir in heavy cream, basil pesto, and Parmesan cheese, then cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through and slightly thickened; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  • Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

Ensure chicken is fully cooked before setting aside. Stirring the tortellini occasionally helps prevent sticking to the bottom of the pan and promotes even cooking. For a richer flavor, use full-fat heavy cream; for a lighter option, half-and-half works well. Adjust salt and pepper to your taste preferences.