Description
This warm balsamic chicken tortellini salad recipe combines tender cheese tortellini, juicy balsamic-glazed chicken, fresh spinach, and roasted cherry tomatoes in a tangy warm balsamic dressing. A hearty yet fresh dinner salad perfect for family meals or entertaining.
Ingredients
2 chicken breasts
12 oz cheese tortellini
4 cups baby spinach
1 pint cherry tomatoes
1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tbsp honey (optional)
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through.
2. Reduce heat, add balsamic vinegar and honey if desired, letting it reduce into a syrupy glaze that coats the chicken.
3. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to package instructions until just tender. Drain and set aside.
4. Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt and pepper, then roast at 400°F for about 15 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.
5. In a large bowl, layer fresh spinach and roasted tomatoes. Slice the glazed chicken and add it on top along with warm tortellini. Drizzle with additional balsamic glaze and sprinkle with Parmesan.
6. Toss gently to combine and serve while still warm, letting the spinach wilt slightly and soak up the flavors.
Notes
Cook the tortellini just until al dente to avoid mushiness.
Watch the balsamic glaze carefully so it doesn’t burn.
Add the spinach at the end so it stays slightly crisp.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop + Oven
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg