Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe

If you’re looking for a meal that will win over your loved ones and possibly earn you a marriage proposal, this Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is the dish for you! Combining the creamy, rich flavors of Marry Me Chicken with the hearty texture of cheese-stuffed tortellini, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. With its flavorful sauce made from garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and heavy cream, paired with tender chicken and perfectly cooked tortellini, this recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser. Whether for a romantic dinner or a special family meal, this one-pan dish is not only delicious but easy to make. Read on to learn how to create this irresistible meal.

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What Is Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?

Marry Me Chicken is a dish famous for its creamy, savory sauce and tender chicken. Legend has it that the dish is so good, it might lead to a marriage proposal, hence the playful name. For this recipe, we’ve added tortellini, the cheese-filled pasta that makes the dish even more comforting and satisfying. The chicken is pan-seared until golden, then cooked in a creamy sauce made with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. The tortellini soaks up all that rich sauce, making this an irresistible meal that’s ready in under an hour.

Ingredients List for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delectable dish:

For the chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking the chicken)

For the sauce:

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and sliced)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped, for garnish)

For the tortellini:

• 1 package (9-12 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)

Ingredients List for a Creamy Twist

If you want to add a little extra richness and flavor, here are some optional ingredients you can include:

• 2 tablespoons cream cheese (for extra creaminess)
• 1 tablespoon butter (to enhance the sauce)
• ½ cup baby spinach (optional, for a pop of color and nutrition)

Substitutions and Variations

You can easily customize this recipe based on your preferences or what you have available. Here are some substitutions and variations:

1. Protein Substitutes: While chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for this dish, you can also use shrimp, pork medallions, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
2. Tortellini Alternatives: If you can’t find tortellini, substitute with ravioli, gnocchi, or even penne pasta.
3. Sun-Dried Tomato Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes, try using cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even a few tablespoons of tomato paste for a different flavor profile.
4. Dairy-Free Version: To make the recipe dairy-free, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and swap the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
5. Extra Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or peas to make the dish even heartier and more nutritious.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering dish:

1. Season the Chicken: Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sliced sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and the tomatoes are slightly softened. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom (these add a lot of flavor). Let the broth simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes. If you’re adding cream cheese or butter for extra creaminess, add them now and stir until melted and well incorporated.
6. Cook the Tortellini: While the sauce is simmering, cook the tortellini in a pot of boiling salted water according to the package instructions. Fresh tortellini usually takes 3-4 minutes, while frozen may take a bit longer. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set aside.
7. Combine Everything: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Add the tortellini and sliced chicken back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Gently toss everything together to ensure the tortellini and chicken are well-coated in the sauce.
8. Finish with Herbs: Stir in the fresh thyme and garnish with chopped basil. If you’re using spinach, toss it in at this stage and allow it to wilt slightly in the warm sauce.

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

Here’s a more detailed guide to ensure success when making this dish:

1. Get the Chicken Just Right: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly if overcooked, so keep an eye on them. You want them to be golden on the outside and juicy on the inside. Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach 165°F for safe consumption.
2. Sauce Thickness: If the sauce seems too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken. Alternatively, you can add a slurry made from 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of cold water to thicken it up quickly.
3. Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Tortellini cooks quickly, and overcooking can cause it to become mushy. Keep an eye on it and drain as soon as it reaches the perfect al dente texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Low-Heat for Chicken: Cooking the chicken over too low a heat can cause it to steam instead of sear, resulting in a pale exterior and dry meat. Make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve that perfect golden crust.
2. Curdling the Cream: If the pan is too hot when you add the heavy cream, it can curdle. Lower the heat to medium-low and stir constantly to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce.
3. Overcrowding the Pan: Overcrowding the pan can cause the chicken to release too much moisture and prevent it from browning properly. If needed, cook the chicken in batches.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is not only delicious, but it can also look stunning when plated well. Here’s how to serve and present the dish:

• Serve in a Shallow Bowl: Serve the tortellini and chicken in shallow bowls to show off the creamy sauce and garnished herbs. A sprinkle of fresh Parmesan on top adds a nice finishing touch.
• Pair with a Side Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish. Arugula, spinach, or mixed greens work well.
• Add Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Garlic bread or a warm baguette works perfectly here.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

1. Family Style: For a casual dinner, serve this dish family-style by placing the skillet or a large serving dish in the center of the table. Let everyone help themselves to the creamy chicken and tortellini.
2. Individual Plates: For a more formal setting, divide the chicken and tortellini into individual portions. Top each plate with extra Parmesan cheese, basil, and a few more sun-dried tomatoes for a beautiful presentation.

Presentation Ideas for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

• Herb Garnish: Freshly chopped basil and thyme not only enhance the flavors of the dish but also add a pop of color that looks beautiful against the creamy sauce.
• Parmesan Shavings: Instead of grated Parmesan, use a vegetable peeler to create thin shavings of Parmesan to garnish the dish. This adds an elegant touch.

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe Tips

1. Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time, then store them separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Reheat the sauce gently over low heat, and toss everything together just before serving.
2. Storing Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen tortellini?
A: Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly for this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Q: Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?
A: You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version of the sauce, but the texture may not be as rich and creamy.

Q: Can I make this dish in advance?
A: While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. Cook the tortellini just before serving to maintain its texture.

Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: If you enjoy spice, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a delicious and impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy, garlicky sauce, tender chicken, and rich cheese-filled tortellini combine to create a meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re making it for a special someone or treating yourself to a comforting dinner, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds — and maybe even a proposal! Try this recipe today, and get ready to fall in love with every bite.

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