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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the satisfaction of a creamy pasta. Creamy Chicken Pesto Tortellini is a delightful blend of tender chicken, rich pesto, and delicate pasta that promises a burst of flavor in every bite. This dish showcases a perfect harmony between the savory notes of the chicken and the lush, vibrant flavors of basil pesto, all enveloped in a creamy sauce that ties everything together.

Creamy Chicken Pesto Tortellini

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Chicken Pesto Tortellini recipe. Combining tender chicken, flavorful basil pesto, and cheese-filled tortellini in a rich, creamy sauce, this dish is sure to satisfy. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it offers a burst of delicious flavors and a beautiful presentation. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this easy, delightful meal that you’ll want to share with family and friends. Enjoy a cozy dining experience that elevates your pasta game!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions
 

Cook the Tortellini: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package directions, ensuring they are al dente. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set them aside.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are beautifully browned and cooked through.

      Add Garlic: Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.

        Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir the mixture well and allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes until it slightly thickens.

          Incorporate Pesto: Introduce the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes rich and creamy. If you enjoy a bit of spice, you can add the red pepper flakes at this point.

            Mix in Tortellini: Add the cooked tortellini and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Gently toss all the ingredients together until the tortellini are well-coated in the creamy pesto sauce and heated through.

              Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves. Taste your creation and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

                Enjoy: Serve the creamy chicken pesto tortellini immediately, with extra grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who want a little more cheesy goodness.

                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 servings

                    - Presentation Tips: For a beautiful presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls, and drizzle extra pesto on top before garnishing with fresh basil and Parmesan for a colorful finish.