Balsamic Chicken Tortellini Salad

Balsamic Chicken Tortellini Salad is a delightful Italian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and crisp vegetables, all tossed in a tangy balsamic dressing. This versatile salad can be served warm or cold, making it perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The rich taste of balsamic-marinated chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy tortellini and fresh vegetables.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or a hearty side dish, suitable for lunch, dinner, or potlucks.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad can be prepared in advance and served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Cheese-filled tortellini
• Asparagus
• Shredded carrots
• Grape tomatoes
• Olive oil
• Balsamic vinegar
• Italian dressing
• Honey
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Italian dressing, honey, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. Cook the Tortellini: Prepare the cheese tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and place in a large mixing bowl.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Pour in a portion of the prepared dressing, bring to a simmer, and cook for an additional minute, ensuring the chicken is well-coated. Transfer the chicken and its sauce to the bowl with the tortellini.
4. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped asparagus and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add shredded carrots and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.
5. Combine All Ingredients: Add the sautéed vegetables and halved grape tomatoes to the bowl with the tortellini and chicken. Pour the remaining dressing over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
6. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with fresh minced basil. Serve immediately for a warm salad or refrigerate and serve chilled.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
• Cheese Options: While cheese tortellini is traditional, feel free to experiment with different fillings such as spinach and ricotta.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Enjoy the salad cold or reheat gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It’s delicious both cold and at room temperature.

What type of tortellini works best for this recipe?

Cheese-filled tortellini is commonly used, but you can experiment with other fillings like spinach and ricotta.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

To make a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and consider adding grilled tofu or extra vegetables.

Can I use store-bought balsamic dressing?

Yes, a quality store-bought balsamic dressing can be used to save time.

How do I prevent the tortellini from becoming mushy?

Cook the tortellini until al dente and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

What can I serve alongside this salad?

This salad pairs well with crusty bread or a light soup for a complete meal.

Can I freeze this salad?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the tortellini and vegetables may change upon thawing.

How can I add more flavor to the chicken?

Marinating the chicken in the balsamic dressing for at least 30 minutes before cooking can enhance its flavor.

Is this salad gluten-free?

To make this salad gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I add nuts or seeds for extra crunch?

Yes, adding toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds can provide a delightful crunch and additional flavor.

Conclusion

Balsamic Chicken Tortellini Salad is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its combination of tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and fresh vegetables tossed in a tangy balsamic dressing makes it both satisfying and delicious. Whether served warm or cold, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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