Nora
Savor the irresistible combination of juicy balsamic-glazed chicken, tender cheese-filled tortellini, and fresh garden vegetables all tossed together in a vibrant salad. Each bite brings a balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, making this dish perfect for a wholesome dinner or an elevated lunch.
This salad isn’t just visually stunning with its bright cherry tomatoes, fresh greens, and golden seared chicken—it’s also incredibly satisfying. The warm tortellini adds heartiness, while the balsamic dressing ties everything together with a glossy, flavorful finish.
Why You’ll Love This Warm Balsamic Chicken Tortellini Salad
- Restaurant-quality flavors at home – The balsamic glaze gives the chicken a gourmet twist.
- Hearty yet refreshing – A perfect balance of warm pasta and crisp vegetables.
- Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Versatile – Serve it as a main course or a side dish at gatherings.
- Healthy indulgence – Protein-rich chicken, fresh veggies, and wholesome pasta.
What Type of Tortellini Works Best for This Salad?
For the best results, choose fresh refrigerated cheese tortellini. Its soft texture and rich filling complement the warm balsamic chicken beautifully. If you want to experiment, spinach and ricotta tortellini add a subtle earthy flavor, while meat-filled tortellini make the salad even heartier. Avoid dried tortellini if possible—it tends to be firmer and doesn’t soak up the balsamic dressing as well.
Ingredients for the Warm Balsamic Chicken Tortellini Salad
The magic of this salad lies in the quality of its fresh ingredients. Each component adds depth, texture, and flavor to create a harmonious bite every time.
- Chicken breasts – Lean protein that soaks up the balsamic marinade beautifully.
- Cheese tortellini – Creamy, soft pasta pockets that add a hearty base.
- Cherry tomatoes – Juicy and slightly sweet, balancing the tangy dressing.
- Fresh spinach or mixed greens – Adds freshness and crunch to the salad.
- Cucumber – Provides a crisp, refreshing bite.
- Feta or mozzarella cheese – Crumbles of creamy, salty goodness to contrast the sweetness of the balsamic glaze.
- Balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar – The star of the dressing, adding tangy sweetness.
- Olive oil – Smooth and rich, it helps carry all the flavors.
- Garlic & Italian herbs – Infuses the chicken with a warm, aromatic taste.
- Salt & black pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.
How To Make the Warm Balsamic Chicken Tortellini Salad
Step 1: Marinate and Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic, and Italian herbs. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil, then sear in a hot skillet until golden brown and cooked through. Slice into strips for serving.
Step 2: Cook the Tortellini
Boil the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables
Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and wash the fresh spinach or mixed greens.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, layer the greens, cooked tortellini, fresh vegetables, and sliced chicken.
Step 5: Dress and Serve
Drizzle generously with balsamic glaze, sprinkle with feta or mozzarella cheese, and serve warm for the best flavor experience.
Serving and Storing the Warm Balsamic Chicken Tortellini Salad
This recipe serves 4 people generously, making it perfect for a family dinner or a lunch meal prep option. Serve it warm for the best flavor, but it also tastes great chilled for a refreshing next-day meal.
To store, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. For reheating, gently warm the chicken and tortellini separately, then toss them back with the fresh vegetables just before serving.
What to Serve With Warm Balsamic Chicken Tortellini Salad?
Garlic Breadsticks
Soft, buttery breadsticks are perfect for soaking up the balsamic dressing.
Roasted Vegetables
A tray of roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots complements the salad’s tangy-sweet notes.
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A comforting soup that pairs beautifully with the freshness of the salad.
Lemonade or Iced Tea
A refreshing, slightly citrusy drink cuts through the richness of the chicken and cheese.
Crispy Fried Mushrooms
Add some crunch with golden, breaded mushrooms for a fun side.
Cheesy Zucchini Casserole
The creamy, cheesy flavor balances the lightness of the salad.
Classic Chicken Salad
If serving a crowd, offer another chicken-based option for variety.
Want More Salad and Pasta Ideas?
If you love this Warm Balsamic Chicken Tortellini Salad, you’ll probably enjoy these other flavorful dishes too:
• Avocado Egg and Chickpea Salad with Lemon and Herbs for a protein-packed vegetarian option.
• Easy Veggie Patties – A Crispy, Flavorful Delight when you’re craving a crunchy side.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a hearty pasta twist.
• Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup if you want a warm, cozy pairing.
• Italian Grinder Salad – A Bold and Flavorful Twist for another bold salad idea.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner or pasta board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra vegetables or try a different cheese? Did you make it with grilled chicken or roasted?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.
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Warm Balsamic Chicken Tortellini Salad
Equipment
- Skillet
- Large pot
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 9 oz cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach or mixed greens
- 1 small cucumber, diced
- 1/3 cup feta or mozzarella cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic, and Italian herbs. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil, then sear in a skillet until golden brown and cooked through. Slice into strips.
- Boil tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and toss with a bit of olive oil.
- Halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber, and wash greens.
- Layer greens, tortellini, vegetables, and sliced chicken in a large bowl.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze, sprinkle cheese, and serve warm.