This warm balsamic chicken tortellini salad is a fun mix of tasty flavors! With juicy chicken, chewy tortellini, and a tangy balsamic dressing, it’s sure to please everyone at your table.
I love how this dish feels like a hug on a plate. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up! Just toss everything together, and you’re ready to enjoy a yummy meal that’s perfect for any night.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Fresh cheese tortellini is the star here! If you can’t find fresh, frozen tortellini works well too. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time. Gluten-free tortellini is also available if needed.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for a quick cook, but feel free to use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Rotisserie chicken can save time if you want to skip cooking.
Spinach: I love using fresh baby spinach for its tenderness, but you can swap it for arugula or kale. Just note that kale might take a bit longer to wilt.
Balsamic Vinegar: This gives the salad its tang! If you’re out, red wine vinegar can work, though it won’t have the same sweetness. A splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors if preferred.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky, but here’s how to do it right: Start with even thickness by pounding the chicken lightly. It helps cook evenly. Season both sides with salt and pepper before heating your skillet.
- Heat the pan with oil on medium-high. Add chicken and let it sear for 5-7 minutes without moving it.
- Flip and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the internal temp reads 165°F (75°C).
- Allow to rest before slicing; this keeps it juicy!
Warm Balsamic Chicken Tortellini Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh cheese tortellini
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach or mixed greens
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup mozzarella balls or shredded mozzarella
- Optional: toasted pine nuts or walnuts for garnish
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 30 minutes in total. This includes about 15 minutes for prep and cooking the chicken and tortellini, followed by a quick toss together. It’s a speedy and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is bubbling, add the fresh cheese tortellini and cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 3-4 minutes for fresh tortellini. When they float to the top and are tender, drain them and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the tortellini cooks, season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Balsamic Dressing:
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Then, pour in the balsamic vinegar and honey (or maple syrup) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom. Let this mixture cook for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Toss Everything Together:
Reduce the heat to low. Now, add the cooked tortellini, sliced chicken, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and fresh spinach to the skillet. Gently toss everything together, ensuring all the ingredients are coated in the balsamic glaze and the spinach has wilted a bit.
5. Final Touches:
Remove from heat, then stir in the chopped fresh basil and mozzarella. Give it a good mix!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Plate up your warm balsamic chicken tortellini salad while it’s warm. If you like, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top for a lovely crunch. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ About Warm Balsamic Chicken Tortellini Salad
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works perfectly. Just increase the cooking time slightly according to the package instructions. They are usually cooked when they float to the surface and are tender.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add extra veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also include chickpeas for added protein!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time! Cook the tortellini and chicken, then store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just toss everything together with the dressing when ready to serve, and add a bit of fresh spinach to keep it vibrant!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If possible, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness. Reheat the tortellini and chicken gently in the microwave or on the stove before enjoying again.
