Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chicken and Mozzarella Tortellini recipe is a perfect example of a delicious dish that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. It's a fantastic option for busy weeknights, satisfying cravings for pasta, and impressing family and friends with minimal effort. This recipe is a winner for healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, and is a testament to the power of homemade cooking. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cheese tortellini (cheese and spinach blend works well too!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced (rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut!)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella, torn into small pieces
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
While the tortellini cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked chicken and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to heat through.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Stir in the drained tortellini, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil. Toss gently to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the tortellini! Al dente pasta is key to a great dish.
- Use high-quality ingredients. The flavor of your dish will be elevated by using fresh, flavorful ingredients.
- Adjust seasonings to your preference. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or white beans for extra protein.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche for a richer sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used. Always consult a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. It's a fantastic example of how delicious and healthy meals can be achieved with simple ingredients and minimal cooking time. Enjoy this amazing, crowd-pleasing dish!