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Warm Balsamic Chicken Tortellini Salad

Warm Balsamic Chicken Tortellini Salad
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Warm Balsamic Chicken Tortellini Salad is a hearty and vibrant dish featuring tender cheese tortellini, savory grilled chicken breasts, and fresh mixed greens, all brought together with a luscious balsamic dressing. Perfect as a warm main course or a satisfying side, this recipe offers a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and fresh flavors, making it ideal for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Pasta

  • 12 oz fresh or frozen cheese tortellini

Greens

  • 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, baby spinach, or spring mix)

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Add-ins & Garnishes

  • 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to season chicken and salad

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder. Grill or pan-sear them over medium heat until fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into tender strips.
  2. Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions, usually 3-5 minutes until tender. Drain well and toss immediately with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking and add a silky texture.
  3. Make the Balsamic Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper until the dressing is emulsified and smooth.
  4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the warm tortellini, sliced chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and mixed greens. Pour the balsamic dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. The warmth will slightly wilt the greens, enhancing the flavors.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Finish the salad with freshly shaved Parmesan cheese and chopped basil for an aromatic and flavorful touch. Serve the salad warm.

Notes

  • Choose fresh or high-quality frozen tortellini for best taste and texture.
  • Let the cooked chicken rest to keep it juicy and flavorful.
  • Adjust balsamic vinegar and olive oil ratio in the dressing to balance the tanginess.
  • Toss greens with warm tortellini just before serving to gently wilt without losing crispness.
  • Add toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch and texture contrast.

Nutrition

Keywords: balsamic chicken salad, warm tortellini salad, chicken tortellini, balsamic vinaigrette, gluten free salad

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/warm-balsamic-chicken-tortellini-salad/