Creamy Pesto Tortellini Skillet

This Creamy Pesto Tortellini Skillet is a rich and comforting meal that features tender cheese tortellini and juicy rotisserie chicken. Enveloped in a velvety basil pesto sauce, this dish is the perfect solution for a quick, flavor-packed weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.

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The beauty of this skillet meal lies in its simple execution. By simmering the sauce and finishing the dish in one pan, the flavors of the basil and Parmesan meld perfectly with the cheese-filled tortellini, creating a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ingredients

• 1 (20 oz) package shelf-stable cheese tortellini
• 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded (skin and bones removed)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1

Bring a large skillet or sauté pan of salted water to a boil. Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually 3–4 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir in pesto and Parmesan until smooth and slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.

Step 3

Add the shredded rotisserie chicken and cooked tortellini to the skillet. Stir to coat evenly with the sauce.

Step 4

Fold in baby spinach and cherry tomatoes (if using). Cook for 1–2 minutes, until spinach is wilted and the sauce is creamy and bubbling.

Step 5

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the smoothest sauce, allow the heavy cream to come to a gentle simmer before whisking in the pesto and cheese. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a small splash of pasta water or milk to reach your desired consistency.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables such as sautéed mushrooms or zucchini. You can also swap the heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce, or use gluten-free tortellini if needed.

Serviervorschläge

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad to balance the richness of the sauce. For a complete dining experience, serve it alongside a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

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With its vibrant colors and rich textures, this Creamy Pesto Tortellini Skillet is a reliable go-to for anyone looking for a satisfying Italian-American dinner in less than half an hour.

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Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. Simply omit the rotisserie chicken and add extra vegetables such as sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes to maintain the heartiness and depth of flavor.

→ What if I want a lighter version?

You can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half to reduce the richness while still maintaining a creamy, luxurious sauce. Alternatively, use Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of pasta water for a lighter option.

→ How do I prevent the sauce from breaking or becoming grainy?

Keep the heat at medium and avoid boiling vigorously. Stir the cream and pesto together gently before adding the pasta and chicken. If the sauce seems too thick, thin it with a splash of reserved pasta water.

→ Can I use fresh pesto instead of store-bought?

Yes, fresh homemade pesto works wonderfully and often delivers superior flavor. Use the same amount as store-bought pesto, adjusting salt to taste since homemade versions may vary in seasoning.

→ What wine pairs well with this dish?

Crisp white wines like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complement the creamy pesto sauce beautifully. Their acidity cuts through the richness and brightens the basil flavors.

→ Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, simply substitute regular tortellini with gluten-free tortellini. Check all store-bought pesto and sauce ingredients for gluten, as some brands may use thickeners containing wheat.