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Tortellini Pasta Salad with Chicken Recipe


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3.9 from 75 reviews

  • Author: Jane
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This Tortellini Pasta Salad with Chicken is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender cheese tortellini, juicy grilled chicken, fresh cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, roasted red peppers, black olives, creamy mozzarella pearls, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil all tossed in a zesty Italian dressing. It’s a perfect make-ahead meal for picnics, potlucks, or a satisfying lunch that can be enjoyed chilled.


Ingredients

Pasta and Protein

  • 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
  • 2 cups cooked grilled chicken, diced

Vegetables and Cheese

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • ½ cup roasted red peppers, chopped
  • ½ cup sliced black olives
  • 1 cup mozzarella pearls
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Herbs and Dressing

  • ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
  • ¾ cup Italian dressing
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste


Instructions

  1. Cook Tortellini: Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package directions, usually boiling for around 3-5 minutes until tender. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled tortellini, diced grilled chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped roasted red peppers, sliced black olives, mozzarella pearls, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh basil. Mix gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
  3. Add Dressing and Toss: Pour the Italian dressing over the combined salad and toss thoroughly until every component is evenly coated with the dressing for maximum flavor.
  4. Season: Taste the salad and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.
  5. Chill Before Serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and serve it chilled for best taste.

Notes

  • Add fresh spinach or arugula to incorporate extra greens and nutrients.
  • Using homemade Italian dressing can enhance the freshness and flavor of the salad.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for best quality and safety.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American