Who doesn’t love a hearty, flavorful dish that comes together effortlessly in one skillet? That’s exactly how I felt after cooking and devouring this Italian Chicken Tortellini Skillet. 🍅 The cheesy tortellini, succulent chicken, and vibrant tomatoes infused with herbs were a match made in food heaven!
While it’s easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight, it’s elegant enough to serve guests or enjoy on a cozy weekend night. Whether you’re an experienced cook or someone just dipping their toes into the world of Italian cooking, you’re bound to fall in love with this recipe.
Why This Dish Will Win You Over?
Let’s talk about what makes this Italian Chicken Tortellini Skillet a standout. Aside from its swoon-worthy taste, there are plenty of reasons to cherish this recipe.
Quick and Convenient
Life’s busy, but that doesn’t mean you should have to sacrifice good food. This dish comes together in a single skillet, meaning fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your meal. From prep to serving, you’re looking at less than an hour.
Packed With Flavor
Between the cheesy tortellini, juicy chicken marinated with garlic and oregano, and fresh basil that ties everything together, every bite explodes with rich, satisfying flavors.
Customizable to Your Preferences
Have dietary restrictions or different flavor preferences? No problem! Swap chicken for shrimp, add extra veggies, or tweak the spice level to suit your tastes.
Great for Leftovers
One of the best things about making this skillet meal is how well it reheats. It tastes just as delicious (if not better) the next day, so your lunch prep is sorted!
Your Cooking Timeline
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of cooking, here’s how long you’ll need to set aside.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to gather to get started.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Garlic
- Dried oregano
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Olive oil
- Cheese tortellini
- Cherry tomatoes
- Fresh basil leaves
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Sun-dried tomatoes
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large Skillet: For cooking chicken and combining ingredients
- Mixing Bowl: To prepare the chicken marinade
- Large Pot: For boiling tortellini
- Spatula or Tongs: To cook and toss the ingredients
How To Whip This Up Like a Pro?
One of my favorite things about the Italian Chicken Tortellini Skillet is how easy the steps are. Even if you’re not a seasoned cook, you’ll find this recipe incredibly doable (and fun, especially with the emojis!)
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken 🥩
Start by preparing your chicken. Combine minced garlic, dried oregano, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Give it a good mix, then coat the chicken breasts. Set them aside for at least 30 minutes to infuse with flavor!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken 🍳
Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Sear the marinated chicken breasts until they’re cooked through and golden brown on both sides. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Tomatoes 🍅
Using the same skillet, toss in halved cherry tomatoes and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté them until they soften and release all their delicious juices.
Step 4: Prepare the Tortellini 🥟
While the tomatoes are cooking, boil a pot of salted water. Add the cheese tortellini and cook them according to the package instructions until they are beautifully al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 5: Put It All Together 🥘
Return the chicken to the skillet. Add in the basil leaves, cooked tortellini, and stir everything gently to combine. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top and watch it melt into cheesy perfection.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy! 🥂
Your gorgeous Italian Chicken Tortellini Skillet is ready to dazzle! Plate it with some extra basil as garnish and an optional drizzle of olive oil for added flair.
Pro Tips to Elevate Your Dish
A few tweaks here and there can make this dish even more satisfying.
- Rest the Chicken: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes. This keeps it juicy and allows the flavors to settle.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Whenever possible, opt for fresh basil instead of dried. It makes every bite pop!
- Cheesy Goodness: Want it extra indulgent? Add mozzarella or even goat cheese for a flavor twist.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation is key! To make every plate look as good as it tastes, serve your skillet creation in shallow bowls, allowing the flavorful juices to pool at the bottom. Top with fresh basil, a sprinkle of Parmesan, or even chili flakes if you love a bit of heat. Pair it with crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad, and you’ve got yourself a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Nutritional Breakdown
Here’s an overview of what you’re consuming (per serving):
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 20g
It’s a delicious balance of flavors and nutrients that’s filling without being overly heavy.
Make It Ahead or Store for Later
If you love meal prepping, this recipe is perfect for you.
Refrigerate for Short-Term Storage
Transfer leftovers into an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to keep the dish from drying out.
Freeze for Long-Term Storage
To enjoy this dish even weeks later, portion everything into freezer-safe bags or containers. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
By planning ahead, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go whenever hunger strikes!
Check out this video for a step-by-step guide:
Italian Chicken Tortellini Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Garlic
- Dried oregano
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Olive oil
- Cheese tortellini
- Cherry tomatoes
- Fresh basil leaves
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Sun-dried tomatoes
Instructions
- Start by preparing your chicken. Combine minced garlic, dried oregano, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Give it a good mix, then coat the chicken breasts. Set them aside for at least 30 minutes to infuse with flavor!
- Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Sear the marinated chicken breasts until they’re cooked through and golden brown on both sides. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Using the same skillet, toss in halved cherry tomatoes and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté them until they soften and release all their delicious juices.
- While the tomatoes are cooking, boil a pot of salted water. Add the cheese tortellini and cook them according to the package instructions until they are beautifully al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Return the chicken to the skillet. Add in the basil leaves, cooked tortellini, and stir everything gently to combine. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top and watch it melt into cheesy perfection.
- Your gorgeous Italian Chicken Tortellini Skillet is ready to dazzle! Plate it with some extra basil as garnish and an optional drizzle of olive oil for added flair.
Notes
- Rest the Chicken: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes. This keeps it juicy and allows the flavors to settle.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Whenever possible, opt for fresh basil instead of dried. It makes every bite pop!
- Cheesy Goodness: Want it extra indulgent? Add mozzarella or even goat cheese for a flavor twist.
