One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies

Name: One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts; 1 cup tortellini; 1 cup asparagus, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup pesto sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil

kate

Update : March 31, 2026

One-Pan Pesto Chicken with Tortellini and Fresh Veggies in a skillet

This recipe is a simple one-pan meal. It brings together chicken, tortellini, asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and pesto for a fast, tasty dinner.

introduction

This dish cooks in one pan and uses simple ingredients. It makes a quick weeknight meal. The flavors are fresh and Mediterranean-style. You can cook it in about 30 minutes.

why make this recipe

It is fast and easy to cook.
You clean only one pan.
It mixes protein, pasta, and vegetables in one dish.
Pesto adds bright flavor without much work.

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

Heat a little olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add them to the hot skillet. Cook until golden and done, about 6–7 minutes per side.
Add the chopped asparagus and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
While the chicken and veggies cook, boil the tortellini following the package instructions.
Drain the tortellini and put it in the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Add the pesto sauce and stir to combine. Heat everything for 2–3 minutes so the flavors mix.
Serve hot and enjoy your Mediterranean-style dinner.

Ingredients :

2 chicken breasts
1 cup tortellini
1 cup asparagus, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup pesto sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil

Directions :

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
Add asparagus and cherry tomatoes to the skillet, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until veggies are tender.
Meanwhile, cook tortellini according to package instructions.
Drain tortellini and add to the skillet along with the pesto sauce. Stir to combine and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
Serve hot and enjoy your Mediterranean-style dinner!

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

Serve on warm plates. Slice the chicken and place it over the tortellini and vegetables. Add extra pesto or a sprinkle of grated cheese if you like. A side salad or crusty bread goes well with this meal.

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

Cool the dish to room temperature within two hours. Put it in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil if it feels dry.

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

Pound chicken to even thickness so it cooks evenly.
Cook tortellini al dente so it keeps texture when mixed.
Warm the pesto slightly before adding if your pesto is very cold from the fridge.
Use fresh asparagus for the best taste; you can swap for green beans if you prefer.

variation (if any)

Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you want richer flavor.
Use spinach instead of asparagus for a softer green.
Try a sun-dried tomato pesto for a different taste.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen tortellini?
A: Yes. Cook frozen tortellini according to package directions before adding to the skillet.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes. Check the pesto label for cheese and use a dairy-free pesto if you need.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Yes. If you use pre-cooked chicken, warm it in the skillet with the veggies and pesto just to heat through.

Q: Is this dish good for meal prep?
A: It works for short-term meal prep. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat well.

Conclusion

If you want a similar recipe to compare or try a different version, see Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies – Julia’s Album for another take. For more ideas and tips on pesto chicken with tortellini, check Pesto Chicken Tortellini – Chelsea’s Messy Apron.