One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies

Name: One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts; 1 cup pesto sauce; 1 package tortellini (refrigerated or frozen); 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Jena Ellison

Update : March 21, 2026

One-Pan Pesto Chicken with tortellini and colorful veggies

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One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies is a delicious and easy meal you can prepare with minimal fuss. This recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful pesto, and hearty tortellini, all cooked together with fresh veggies in just one pan. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a wholesome dish with little cleanup.

Why make this recipe

This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it is simple and quick to make, taking under 30 minutes from start to finish. Second, it uses one pan, which means less washing up! Plus, the combination of chicken, tortellini, and fresh vegetables creates a balanced meal that is both satisfying and flavorful. Finally, you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, making it a versatile option for any dinner.

How to make One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies

Ingredients:

2 chicken breasts
1 cup pesto sauce
1 package tortellini (refrigerated or frozen)
1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Directions:

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and add them to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the asparagus and sauté for about 2-3 minutes.
Add the tortellini and broth (or water) to the skillet, and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the tortellini is cooked, about 3-5 minutes.
Stir in the pesto sauce and halved tomatoes.
Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet. Stir everything to combine and heat through.
Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to serve One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies

This dish is best served warm right after cooking. You can plate it up and sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a full meal.

How to store One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.

Tips to make One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the pesto sauce for a couple of hours before cooking.
You can use any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers or zucchini, instead of asparagus and tomatoes.
If using frozen tortellini, make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking time.

Variation

If you want to make it a vegetarian dish, you can skip the chicken entirely and use additional vegetables or even chickpeas for protein. You could also add a splash of lemon juice for a bright flavor.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pesto for this recipe?

Yes, homemade pesto can add a fantastic fresh taste to the dish. Feel free to use your own recipe if you have one!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies is perfect for meal prep as it keeps well in the fridge.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free tortellini and ensure your pesto is also gluten-free. Just check the labels to be safe.