Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, soft cheese-filled tortellini, and a creamy, flavorful sauce. The sauce usually features juicy sun-dried tomatoes and…
Tip: save now, cook later.Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, soft cheese-filled tortellini, and a creamy, flavorful sauce. The sauce usually features juicy sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs, which make every bite pop with taste. It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy but is actually pretty simple to make, perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
I love making this dish when I want something that feels special but isn’t complicated. The creamy sauce clings to the tortellini just right, and the chicken stays juicy and tender. I often add a little extra garlic or sprinkle some Parmesan on top because that little touch always takes it to the next level. It’s a recipe that always impresses without needing a lot of time or effort.
My favorite way to enjoy Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up every bit of that creamy sauce. It’s a meal that brings people together around the table, making any night feel a bit more memorable. Honestly, once you try it, you might just find yourself making it again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless chicken breast because it cooks quickly and stays tender. You can swap it for chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier texture.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is the star here. Fresh works best for tenderness, but frozen is a good, easy option. You can try spinach or mushroom-filled tortellini for a twist.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a tangy, slightly sweet flavor. If you don’t have them, fire-roasted red peppers can be a nice alternative.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce creamy and rich. For a lighter version, try half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese.
Parmesan Cheese: It gives a salty, nutty finish. Pecorino Romano or Asiago work well as substitutes.
How Do You Get the Chicken Tender and Flavorful Without Overcooking?
Cooking the chicken just right can be tricky. Here’s how I do it:
- Cut the chicken into small, evenly sized pieces for quick, even cooking.
- Heat the pan before adding oil and chicken to get a nice sear which locks in juices.
- Season well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to build flavor early.
- Cook over medium-high heat, turning just enough to brown the chicken without drying it out.
- Remove the chicken as soon as it’s cooked through to avoid overcooking—it will finish cooking later in the sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking the chicken and making the creamy sauce all in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring without scratching your skillet.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your cream, broth, and seasonings just right.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping chicken, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for Italian sausage for a richer, spicier flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies and texture—their earthiness complements the dish nicely.
- Use spinach or kale interchangeably to add a fresh, green element that balances the richness.
- Mix in fresh basil or oregano instead of dried herbs for a brighter, more vibrant herb flavor.
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 (9 oz) package of cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped (if packed in oil, drain excess oil)
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish—around 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. It’s a great quick meal perfect for busy weeknights but still feels like something special to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not burnt.
3. Make the Sauce and Cook Tortellini:
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer. Add tortellini, cover, and cook according to the package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes), stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
4. Finish the Dish:
Stir in Parmesan cheese, the remaining Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the fresh spinach and cooked chicken back into the pan. Stir gently until spinach wilts and the chicken is heated through. Let cook for 1-2 minutes more to thicken the sauce slightly.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Remove from heat, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if you like. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, delicious Marry Me Chicken Tortellini!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly! Just add a minute or two to the cooking time to ensure it’s fully heated through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Try substituting the heavy cream with coconut milk or a creamy dairy-free alternative, and use a vegan Parmesan cheese substitute. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and make the sauce in advance, then refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to heat evenly and prevent the sauce from separating.
