Chicken Ravioli with Basil Pesto and Veggies

Chicken Ravioli with Basil Pesto and Veggies is an easy pasta dinner! This gourmet meal takes only 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With its delightful combination of flavors and textures, this dish is packed with protein and vibrant vegetables like asparagus and fresh tomatoes. Enjoy the richness of basil pesto that ties everything together for a truly satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for a fast weeknight dinner.
• Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with protein from chicken and rich in vitamins from veggies, it’s a healthy choice.
• Flavorful: The creamy basil pesto brings a burst of flavor that elevates the dish.
• Versatile: You can easily swap out veggies or use different types of ravioli to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this colorful, tasty meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cooking pot
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for cooking chicken and veggies evenly while allowing enough space for everything to cook without overcrowding.
• Cooking pot: Essential for boiling the ravioli quickly and efficiently.
• Measuring cups: Ensure you add just the right amount of ingredients for perfect results every time.

Ingredients

For the Ravioli

• 10 oz ravioli

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breast (boneless skinless, sliced)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• salt

For the Veggies

• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained of oil, chopped)
• 1 lb asparagus (ends trimmed, cut in half)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (yellow and red, sliced in half)

For the Sauce

• 1/4 cup basil pesto

How to Make Chicken Ravioli with Basil Pesto and Veggies

Step 1: Cook the Ravioli

1. Cook 10 oz ravioli according to package instructions, then drain. While the ravioli cooks, proceed with the rest of the recipe.

Step 2: Sauté Chicken

1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil on medium heat.
2. Add sliced chicken breast, seasoned with salt, along with 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes. Cook on medium heat for 5-10 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

Step 3: Cook Asparagus

1. Remove chicken and sun-dried tomatoes from skillet, leaving the oil behind.
2. Add trimmed asparagus, seasoned generously with salt, along with another 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Cook on medium heat for 5-10 minutes until asparagus is tender.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Return cooked chicken and sun-dried tomatoes back to the skillet.
2. Stir in 1/4 cup basil pesto, coating everything well. Heat on low-medium until warmed through, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Finish Dish

1. Add cooked ravioli and halved cherry tomatoes. Stir gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
2. Adjust seasoning with more salt if necessary.
3. Serve your Chicken Ravioli with Basil Pesto and Veggies alongside asparagus for a beautiful presentation.

Enjoy your meal! If you’re interested in making homemade pesto, consider trying out our flavorful 20-Minute Homemade Basil Pesto Recipe for an added touch!

How to Serve Chicken Ravioli with Basil Pesto and Veggies

Serving Chicken Ravioli with Basil Pesto and Veggies is a delightful experience. This dish not only looks beautiful but also offers a burst of flavors and textures. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil Leaves: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for an aromatic touch.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over the dish for added richness.

Pair with a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens: Serve alongside a mixed green salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette for freshness.
• Caprese Salad: A classic Caprese salad complements the ravioli’s flavors beautifully.

Offer Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Provide garlic bread to soak up the delicious pesto sauce.
• Baguette Slices: Serve slices of baguette as a crunchy side option.

Add a Touch of Lemon

• Lemon Wedges: Include lemon wedges on the side for those who enjoy a zesty kick.
• Lemon Zest: Grate lemon zest over the dish just before serving for an extra zing.

How to Perfect Chicken Ravioli with Basil Pesto and Veggies

Perfecting your Chicken Ravioli with Basil Pesto and Veggies ensures every bite is delightful. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh vegetables and high-quality ravioli for better flavor.
• Adjust the Salt: Taste as you go; adjust salt levels based on your preference.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your ravioli is cooked al dente for the best texture.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite seasonal vegetables.
• Experiment with Pesto: Try different types of pesto, like sun-dried tomato or arugula, for variety.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy this dish right after cooking for optimal taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Ravioli with Basil Pesto and Veggies

Pairing the right side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside your Chicken Ravioli with Basil Pesto and Veggies.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up leftover pesto sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and richness, balancing the meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted mixed veggies provide additional nutrition and flavor.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and complements the dish well.
5. Bruschetta: Fresh bruschetta topped with tomatoes and basil brings a refreshing taste.
6. Risotto: A creamy risotto can make this meal feel extra gourmet.
7. Antipasto Platter: An antipasto platter filled with cured meats, olives, and cheeses pairs beautifully.
8. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles alongside your ravioli.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Chicken Ravioli with Basil Pesto and Veggies can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish.

• Using the wrong pasta: Make sure to use fresh or frozen ravioli specifically designed for quick cooking. Avoid dry pasta as it will not yield the same texture.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cook chicken breast just until it is no longer pink in the center. Overcooking makes it tough and dry.
• Not seasoning enough: Season each component of the dish, especially the chicken and vegetables, to enhance flavors. Taste as you go!
• Skipping the drain step for ravioli: Always drain your ravioli properly before adding it to the skillet. Excess water can dilute flavors.
• Ignoring fresh ingredients: Use fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes and asparagus for better taste and nutrition. Frozen options may alter texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure the food has cooled completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Chicken Ravioli with Basil Pesto and Veggies

• You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag and remove as much air as possible.

Reheating Chicken Ravioli with Basil Pesto and Veggies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Chicken Ravioli with Basil Pesto and Veggies from scratch?

You can make homemade ravioli filled with seasoned chicken and blend basil with olive oil, garlic, and nuts for pesto. This requires more time but is very rewarding!

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought basil pesto works perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure it’s high quality for best flavor.

What veggies work well with Chicken Ravioli with Basil Pesto and Veggies?

Aside from asparagus and cherry tomatoes, consider adding bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and color.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to swap out veggies based on what you have on hand or prefer. You can also change proteins by using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Ravioli with Basil Pesto and Veggies is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. This versatile dish allows room for customization based on your taste preferences or what’s available in your kitchen. Give it a try today!