Tortellini with Chicken & Pesto

Cheese tortellini and diced cooked chicken tossed in a homemade basil pesto. A great recipe for leftover chicken.

Recipe Ingredients:

2 large bunches fresh basil
3/4 cup olive oil
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
4 garlic cloves
1/4 cup pine nuts
1 pound cheese tortellini
2 cups diced cooked chicken
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Additional Parmesan cheese for sprinkling

Cooking Directions:

1. Purée first 5 ingredients in processor until almost smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Cook tortellini according to package directions, drain; reserving 1/2 cup cooking water.
3. Combine cooked tortellini, chicken and 1 cup pesto in large skillet over medium heat. Toss until mixture is heated through, adding reserved cooking water and additional pesto by tablespoonfuls until sauce coats pasta. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
4. Serve sprinkled with additional Parmesan.

Makes 4 servings.

Tip: You may use purchased pesto for easier, and quicker preparation.