Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe

When it comes to comfort food that impresses everyone at the table, “Marry Me Chicken Tortellini” stands out as a top contender. Combining tender chicken with creamy, flavorful sauce, and perfectly cooked tortellini, this dish is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or looking for something comforting for a family gathering, this recipe is sure to steal the spotlight. Read on to discover the magic behind Marry Me Chicken Tortellini and learn how to prepare it step by step!

What Is “Marry Me Chicken Tortellini”?

“Marry Me Chicken” is a popular dish, typically made with chicken breasts, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and heavy cream, all simmered together to create a rich and creamy sauce that’s absolutely irresistible. The name comes from the idea that the dish is so good, it could inspire someone to propose marriage after tasting it. In this variation, tortellini adds an extra layer of comfort and texture to the already delicious chicken and sauce combination. The pasta’s cheesy filling makes the dish heartier, while the creamy sauce ties everything together for a truly decadent meal.

Ingredients List for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Before getting started, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients to create this delicious dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 large chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 package (20 oz) of cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the chicken)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

These ingredients are easy to find in most grocery stores and come together to create a delicious, satisfying meal that will have your guests asking for seconds—or even the recipe!

Ingredients List for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Sauce

The heart of this dish is the creamy sauce that envelops the chicken and tortellini. Here's a breakdown of what you’ll need for the sauce:

• Heavy cream: This provides the rich and creamy base of the sauce. You could substitute half-and-half if you’re looking for a slightly lighter version, but for the best results, stick with heavy cream.
• Chicken broth: Used to thin the sauce slightly and enhance the flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: This adds a sharp, salty note to the sauce, making it extra flavorful.
• Garlic: For that deep, savory aroma that pairs perfectly with cream-based sauces.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: These add a bit of sweetness and tang, along with a pleasant chewiness to balance out the creamy texture.
• Red pepper flakes: Just enough to add a slight kick to the sauce, without overwhelming the dish.
• Basil: For garnishing, fresh basil adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal aroma to the finished dish.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe is its versatility. Whether you're missing an ingredient or catering to specific dietary needs, there are plenty of ways to tweak the dish while keeping its signature flavor.

• Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts: If you prefer darker meat or want a juicier texture, chicken thighs are a great alternative. They cook just as well in the creamy sauce and can make the dish a little more flavorful.
• Swap tortellini fillings: Cheese tortellini is classic, but you can experiment with different fillings like spinach or mushroom to add another layer of flavor.
• Add veggies: To make the dish a bit healthier, consider adding vegetables like spinach, kale, or even mushrooms to the sauce. They cook well in the creamy sauce and add a nutritional boost.
• Make it vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use a meat substitute or extra vegetables for a vegetarian version. You could even add a bit of tofu for extra protein.
• Lighten up the sauce: If you want a lighter dish, substitute the heavy cream for half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative. You’ll sacrifice a little creaminess, but the dish will still be delicious.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the tortellini: Begin by cooking the tortellini according to package instructions. Make sure to salt the water to season the pasta. Once the tortellini is al dente, drain it and set it aside.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then cook them in the skillet for about 6-8 minutes, or until they are golden and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes, stirring well for another minute.
4. Add the liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.
5. Incorporate the cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
6. Combine everything: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the tortellini. Gently toss everything together so the pasta and chicken are coated in the creamy sauce.
7. Garnish and serve: Top the dish with freshly chopped basil and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.

How to Cook Marry Me Chicken Tortellini: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re feeling a bit unsure about tackling this recipe, don’t worry. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the cooking process to guide you through every step:

• Step 1: Prepping the chicken is key. Cut the chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Season them well with salt and pepper.
• Step 2: Cooking tortellini can be a bit tricky. Follow the package instructions closely, and make sure to remove the pasta while it’s still al dente since it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
• Step 3: Creating a good sauce is all about patience. Allow the cream and broth to simmer gently, but don't let it come to a rolling boil. You want it to thicken gradually to maintain that silky texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the chicken: Keep an eye on your chicken while it cooks. Overcooked chicken can become dry and chewy, which will negatively impact the dish.
• Using too much heat for the sauce: When making the sauce, it’s important to keep the heat at a simmer rather than a full boil. Boiling can cause the cream to separate, leading to a grainy texture instead of a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Not salting the pasta water: This is a small step but makes a big difference in the final flavor of the dish. Be sure to add a generous amount of salt to the pasta water before cooking the tortellini.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can take your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini from delicious to spectacular. Here are a few ideas to make it look as good as it tastes:

• Serve in a large shallow dish: Spread the tortellini and chicken out in an even layer so everyone can see the creamy sauce and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Garnish generously: Freshly chopped basil and extra Parmesan cheese add color and make the dish look more professional.
• Add a side: Serve this dish with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad to balance out the richness of the sauce.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

This dish is perfect as a stand-alone meal, but it can be elevated with the right sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• With garlic bread: The creamy sauce begs for a good piece of bread to mop it up.
• Paired with a green salad: A light, tangy salad can be a great contrast to the richness of the dish.
• Wine pairing: For a romantic dinner, serve with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to balance the creamy sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

• Serve in individual bowls: For a cozy, intimate dinner, serve the dish in individual bowls with the garnishes sprinkled over each serving.
• Plating with flair: Place a small basil leaf on top of each portion for an elegant touch. Drizzle a tiny bit of olive oil around the plate for that restaurant-style look.

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce and cook the tortellini fresh.
• Double the recipe for leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, so consider making extra for next-day lunches or dinners.
• Adjust the spice level: The red pepper flakes add a mild heat, but you can increase or decrease the amount depending on your taste preference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen tortellini? A: Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly for this recipe. Just cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the sauce.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Absolutely! The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and toss in freshly cooked tortellini.

Q: What can I use instead of heavy cream? A: If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative, though it may slightly alter the texture and flavor.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a dish that combines comfort, elegance, and flavor in one easy-to-make recipe. Whether you’re preparing it for a romantic night in or serving it to impress guests, this creamy, rich pasta will leave everyone asking for more. With easy-to-find ingredients, simple steps, and room for variations, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. So, gather your ingredients, follow this guide, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen!

Print