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In the delightful realm of creamy pasta dishes, few recipes capture the heart and palate quite like Creamy Pesto Chicken Tortellini. This dish seamlessly combines the comforting embrace of pasta with the vibrant flavors of fresh herbs, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts and home cooks alike. Tortellini, with its tender, stuffed pockets, offers a unique texture that elevates any meal, while pesto brings a burst of freshness that transforms a simple dish into a culinary experience.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Tortellini

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Creamy Pesto Chicken Tortellini! This delightful dish combines tender tortellini with a rich and creamy pesto sauce, bringing vibrant flavors to your table. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special gathering, it's easy to prepare and impresses everyone. With a blend of fresh ingredients, including juicy chicken, spinach, and cherry tomatoes, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy creating this delicious pasta dish that warms both the heart and soul!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz fresh or frozen cheese tortellini

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup baby spinach, rinsed and drained

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Tortellini:

    In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 3-5 minutes, until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain the tortellini in a colander and set them aside.

      Sauté Chicken & Garlic:

        In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. If you're using pre-cooked chicken, toss it into the skillet, allowing it to warm for about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté, stirring frequently, for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden.

          Create the Creamy Base:

            Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, mixing well to combine it with the chicken and garlic. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

              Add Pesto and Spinach:

                Stir in the basil pesto and the baby spinach. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts down, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

                  Combine Tortellini:

                    Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet. Gently toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy pesto sauce.

                      Incorporate Cherry Tomatoes:

                        Carefully fold in the halved cherry tomatoes. Heat it all through for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until the tomatoes are warmed. At this stage, season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.

                          Finish with Parmesan:

                            Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it’s melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.

                              Serve:

                                If desired, garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of flavor and color. Serve immediately to enjoy this comforting and creamy pasta delight.

                                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 30 min | 4 servings