Chicken Ravioli with Pesto and Veggies

Chicken Ravioli with Pesto and Veggies is a delightful and easy-to-prepare dish that combines tender chicken-filled ravioli with vibrant vegetables and aromatic basil pesto. This meal offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
• Flavorful Combination: The rich taste of chicken ravioli pairs beautifully with the fresh vegetables and herby pesto.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with your choice of vegetables or store-bought ravioli.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein and vitamins from the chicken and assorted vegetables.

Ingredients

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

• Chicken ravioli (store-bought or homemade)
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• Basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the Ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chicken ravioli and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the ravioli and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the asparagus pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Then, add the cherry tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
3. Combine Ravioli and Pesto: Lower the heat and add the cooked ravioli to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the basil pesto and gently toss to combine, ensuring the ravioli and vegetables are evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta cooking water until the desired consistency is reached.
4. Season and Serve: Season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Transfer to serving plates and garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Choices: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers based on availability and preference.
• Protein Options: For added protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken strips or shrimp.
• Pasta Alternatives: If chicken ravioli is unavailable, cheese or spinach ravioli can be used as substitutes.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing process for a subtle heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking and to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen ravioli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen ravioli works well. Cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the skillet with the vegetables.

Is it better to use store-bought or homemade pesto?

Both options are suitable. Store-bought pesto offers convenience, while homemade pesto provides a fresher taste. Choose based on your time and preference.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply use cheese or vegetable-filled ravioli instead of chicken ravioli to make the dish vegetarian-friendly.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving. Store the cooked ravioli and sautéed vegetables separately in the refrigerator.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

A light green salad and crusty bread complement this dish well, making for a complete and satisfying meal.

How do I prevent the ravioli from sticking together?

After draining, toss the ravioli with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking if not combining immediately with the sauce.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes, grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese can be added for extra flavor.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well and can be a great option for meal prepping lunches. Store in individual containers for convenience.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Certainly, while ravioli adds a unique texture, other pasta types like penne or fusilli can be used in a pinch.

How can I enhance the flavor of store-bought pesto?

To brighten the flavor of store-bought pesto, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a pinch of salt before mixing it into the dish.

Conclusion

Chicken Ravioli with Pesto and Veggies is a flavorful and versatile dish that brings together the richness of chicken ravioli, the freshness of seasonal vegetables, and the aromatic notes of basil pesto. It’s an ideal choice for a quick yet satisfying meal that can be easily customized to suit various tastes and preferences. Enjoy this delightful combination that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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