Looking for a quick, flavorful, and fresh meal that screams spring and summer? This Easy Spring and Summer Dinner featuring One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies is just what you need. It’s packed with seasonal produce, cooked all in one pan, and bursting with vibrant pesto flavor — a true weeknight winner!
Let’s dive into why you’ll love this delicious and simple dish.
Why One-Pan Dinners Are Perfect for Spring and Summer
Quick and Convenient Meals for Busy Warm Days
When the weather warms up, no one wants to spend hours in the kitchen. A one-pan pesto chicken dinner comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy spring and summer evenings.
Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients Shine in One-Pan Meals
Spring and summer bring an abundance of fresh produce like asparagus and cherry tomatoes. Cooking them in one pan alongside chicken and tortellini allows their natural flavors to shine while staying juicy and tender.
Less Cleanup Means More Time Outdoors
With only one pan to wash, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying long, sunny evenings — whether it’s a backyard dinner or a quick meal before a sunset walk.
Balanced and Flavorful in Every Bite
This meal offers the perfect balance of protein, carbs, and veggies, all coated in delicious pesto for a dish that’s both wholesome and bursting with flavor.
The pesto-coated chicken fillets seared to perfection for added flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Easy Spring and Summer Dinner
Chicken, Tortellini, and Pesto – The Flavor Trio
The heart of this dish is simple but powerful:
Chicken breasts or thighs provide juicy, tender protein.
Cheese tortellini adds comforting richness.
Basil pesto brings a fresh, herby burst that ties everything together.
Fresh Veggies That Bring Color and Nutrition
Seasonal veggies elevate the dish:
Asparagus gives a lovely crunch and earthy note.
Cherry tomatoes add juicy pops of sweetness and acidity.
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor
Want to customize? Try adding:
Zucchini slices
Baby spinach stirred in at the end
Mushrooms for an umami kick
A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra savory goodness
A look at the vibrant, fresh ingredients that come together in this one-pan dinner
How to Make One-Pan Pesto Chicken, Tortellini, and Veggies
Preparing the Chicken and Veggies
Start by seasoning your chicken with salt, pepper, and a little olive oil. Trim the woody ends off your asparagus and slice the cherry tomatoes in half for quicker cooking.
Cooking Everything Together in One Pan
Sear the chicken until golden, then remove and set aside. In the same pan, lightly sauté the asparagus and tomatoes. Add cooked tortellini, return the chicken, and toss everything with pesto until beautifully coated.
Tips for Perfect Texture and Flavor
Don’t overcook the tortellini — it should stay tender but not mushy.
Keep veggies crisp-tender for that perfect fresh bite.
Use high-quality pesto (or homemade!) for the best flavor payoff.
The final dish, plated and ready to be enjoyed — a perfect, healthy spring and summer meal.
Tips and Variations for Your One-Pan Spring and Summer Dinner
Best Pesto Choices for Different Flavors
Change up the flavor by using:
Classic basil pesto (traditional and fresh)
Sun-dried tomato pesto (rich and slightly sweet)
Arugula pesto (peppery and bright)
Each type brings its own personality to the dish!
Making It Vegetarian or Low-Carb
For vegetarians, simply skip the chicken and double up on veggies and tortellini.
For a low-carb version, replace the tortellini with spiralized zucchini (zoodles).
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently to maintain the pesto’s freshness.
Not recommended for freezing due to pasta texture changes.
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Easy Spring and Summer Dinner
Quick, Healthy, and Family-Friendly:
This easy spring and summer dinner ticks every box: it’s fast, fresh, filling, and loved by everyone, from picky kids to hungry adults.
Versatile for Any Spring or Summer Gathering:
Bring it to a picnic, potluck, or outdoor dinner party. It’s vibrant and impressive-looking, but still incredibly simple to make, which makes it the perfect crowd-pleaser.
A New Weeknight Favorite:
Add this one-pan pesto chicken, tortellini, and veggies recipe to your spring and summer dinner rotation — you’ll be glad you did! The one-pan magic ensures less cleanup and more time to enjoy with family or guests.
