These Tortellini and Chicken Skewers are the perfect appetizer for summer gatherings, backyard barbecues, potlucks, and family celebrations.
They combine tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, juicy tomatoes, and savory black olives, all drizzled with Italian dressing for a simple but flavorful bite.
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Use leftover grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time, or quickly prepare tender chicken breasts in the Instant Pot®.
The skewers can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve, making them a great choice for entertaining.
If you’re a fan of easy Italian-inspired appetizers, be sure to check out our Tortellini Antipasto Salad and Italian Chopped Salad recipes too.
Why You’ll Love These Tortellini Chicken Skewers
- Easy to prepare ahead of time – Like these Caprese Skewers, these can be made ahead and chilled until serving time.
- Great for parties, picnics, and potlucks
- Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients
- Can be made with leftover chicken
- Colorful presentation that looks impressive on a serving platter
- Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients
Pair them with fresh summer favorites like our Mediterranean Pasta Salad, Orzo Salad, or Grilled Mediterranean Vegetable Platter for an easy warm-weather menu.
Ingredients
For the Chicken (Optional)
Skip this section if using leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken.
- 16 oz boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Italian dressing
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Skewers
- 9 oz package refrigerated tortellini
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pint large grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 (6 oz) can large black olives, drained
- ½ cup Italian dressing, divided
- 15 wooden skewers (10-12 inches)
How to Make Tortellini and Chicken Skewers
Place the chicken breasts in a large freezer bag with two tablespoons of Italian dressing. Seal tightly and turn to coat evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, turning once halfway through.
Place the Instant Pot® trivet inside the cooking container and arrange the marinated chicken breasts on top. Add the water and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Secure the lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on Manual High Pressure for 8 minutes.
While the chicken cooks, prepare the tortellini according to the package directions. Add olive oil to the cooking water if directed on the package to help prevent sticking. Drain well and transfer to a large bowl.
Allow the Instant Pot® pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and allow it to cool slightly.
Cut the chicken into one-inch cubes and add it to the bowl with the tortellini.
Add the olives, tomatoes, and two tablespoons of Italian dressing. Season lightly with salt and pepper and gently toss to combine.
Thread the ingredients onto the skewers. A suggested order is olive, tomato, chicken, tortellini, chicken, tortellini, tomato, olive.
Arrange the finished skewers on a serving platter. Serve with the remaining Italian dressing on the side for dipping.
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Variations
Try some of these easy variations:
- Substitute mozzarella pearls for some of the tortellini.
- Use marinated artichoke hearts for extra flavor.
- Add cubes of provolone or cheddar cheese.
- Replace black olives with green olives.
- Use basil pesto instead of Italian dressing.
- Add fresh basil leaves between ingredients for a caprese-inspired version.
If you love caprese flavors, you’ll also enjoy our Caprese Garlic Bean Salad and Caprese Twice-Baked Potatoes.
Make Ahead Tips
These skewers can be assembled several hours in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to serve.
If making them the day before, wait to drizzle on any additional dressing until just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
What to Serve with Tortellini Chicken Skewers
These skewers pair beautifully with:
- Pasta salad
- Fresh fruit trays
- Vegetable platters
- Garlic bread
- Italian-inspired charcuterie boards
- Sparkling lemonade or iced tea
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these without an Instant Pot®?
Absolutely. You can use grilled chicken, baked chicken, rotisserie chicken, or any leftover cooked chicken you have on hand.
Can I serve these cold?
Yes. These skewers are delicious chilled, making them ideal for summer entertaining and potlucks.
How long do leftovers last?
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes. Simply cook according to the package directions and allow it to cool before assembling the skewers.
Recipe Tips
- If using smaller cherry tomatoes, leave them whole.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 20-30 minutes before assembling if you plan to place them on a grill.
- Toss any leftover ingredients together with a little extra dressing and serve as a side salad.
- Refrigerate the skewers until serving time for the freshest flavor and texture.
These colorful Tortellini and Chicken Skewers are always a hit at parties. They’re easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and make a beautiful addition to any appetizer table alongside appetizers like Classic Poolside Dip, 7 Layer Dip Cups, or Pasta Chips.
Tortellini and Chicken Skewers
Equipment
- 15 wooden skewers (10-12 inches)
Ingredients
For the Chicken (Optional)
- Skip this section if using leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken.
- 16 oz boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Italian dressing
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Sea salt and black pepper to taste
For the Skewers
- 9 oz package refrigerated tortellini
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pint large grape tomatoes halved
- 1 6 oz can large black olives, drained
- ½ cup Italian dressing divided
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in a large freezer bag with two tablespoons of Italian dressing. Seal tightly and turn to coat evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, turning once halfway through.
- Place the Instant Pot® trivet inside the cooking container and arrange the marinated chicken breasts on top. Add the water and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Secure the lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on Manual High Pressure for 8 minutes.
- While the chicken cooks, prepare the tortellini according to the package directions. Add olive oil to the cooking water if directed on the package to help prevent sticking. Drain well and transfer to a large bowl.
- Allow the Instant Pot® pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and allow it to cool slightly.
- Cut the chicken into one-inch cubes and add it to the bowl with the tortellini.
- Add the olives, tomatoes, and two tablespoons of Italian dressing. Season lightly with salt and pepper and gently toss to combine.
- Thread the ingredients onto the skewers. A suggested order is olive, tomato, chicken, tortellini, chicken, tortellini, tomato, olive.
- Arrange the finished skewers on a serving platter. Serve with the remaining Italian dressing on the side for dipping.
Notes
Nutrition
