Warm Balsamic Chicken Tortellini Salad (Print Version)

A flavorful mix of balsamic chicken, tortellini, and fresh vegetables for a satisfying meal.

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 2 chicken breasts, sliced
02 - 1 pound asparagus
03 - 3/4 cup shredded carrots
04 - 3/4 cup grape tomatoes, sliced
05 - 1 20-ounce package cheese tortellini, cooked according to package instructions
06 - Fresh minced basil, optional, for garnish

→ Dressing and Seasoning

07 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
08 - 1/4 cup Italian dressing
09 - 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
10 - 1 1/2 tablespoons honey
11 - 1/8 teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flakes
12 - 1 teaspoon salt

# Instructions:

01 - Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside in a large bowl.
02 - Combine Italian dressing, balsamic vinegar, honey, and red pepper flakes. Whisk together in a small bowl or shake in a sealed jar. Set aside.
03 - Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken breast, season with salt, and cover. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until browned and cooked through.
04 - Add 1/4 cup sauce to the chicken and bring to a boil. Simmer for 1 minute, turning the chicken to coat all sides. Transfer the chicken to the cooked tortellini and toss.
05 - Add chopped asparagus to the frying pan. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Add shredded carrots and cook until vegetables are tender but slightly crunchy.
06 - Add the cooked vegetables and sliced grape tomatoes to the tortellini and chicken. Pour the remaining sauce over the mixture, simmer for 1-2 minutes until thickened, then gently toss together.
07 - Garnish with fresh minced basil, if desired, and serve immediately.