Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Name: Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (19 oz) bag frozen cheese tortellini; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp paprika; 2 tbsp butter; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and sliced thin; 3 tsp minced garlic; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp paprika; 1 cup Parmesan cheese, finely shredded; 2 cups baby spinach, chopped

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Have you ever tasted a dish so good that it could inspire a marriage proposal? That’s exactly what Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is all about—a creamy, cheesy, and savory dish that’s packed with flavor yet simple enough for beginner cooks to master. The name itself adds a bit of fun to the meal, making it perfect for date nights, special occasions, or just an indulgent weeknight dinner.

This recipe brings together tender bites of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, a rich Parmesan-cream sauce, and cheesy tortellini in a single pan. Not only does it taste like something from a high-end restaurant, but it also comes together in about 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy evenings.

Why This Recipe is Special

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini isn’t just another pasta dish; it has a unique blend of ingredients that create an irresistible balance of richness and tangy depth.

One-Pan Wonder: Everything is cooked in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Beginner-Friendly: The steps are simple, with easy-to-find ingredients.
Rich Yet Balanced: The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with the acidity of sun-dried tomatoes, preventing the dish from feeling too heavy.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re cooking for family, a loved one, or just yourself, this dish is satisfying and impressive.

Ingredients and Their Roles

Each ingredient in this dish plays a crucial role in creating its signature taste and texture.

Tortellini – The cheesy filling in the pasta complements the creamy sauce, making the dish extra indulgent. You can use frozen, fresh, or even substitute it with ravioli.

Chicken Breast – The protein base of the dish, absorbing all the flavors of the sauce. Boneless thighs can be used for a juicier alternative.
Olive Oil & Butter – Olive oil helps sear the chicken, while butter adds richness to the sauce.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Their tangy, slightly sweet flavor cuts through the creaminess, adding depth to the dish.

Garlic – A must-have in Italian-style dishes, adding a robust and aromatic flavor.
Chicken Broth – Enhances the sauce with extra depth without overpowering the other flavors.
Heavy Cream – Creates a velvety, luxurious texture. For a lighter version, half-and-half can be used.

Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty, salty flavor that thickens the sauce. Grated Asiago or Pecorino Romano can work as substitutes.
Spinach – A pop of green that adds freshness and a hint of earthiness. Kale or arugula can also be used.
Seasonings (Black Pepper, Italian Seasoning, Paprika) – These enhance the overall flavor with warmth and a touch of spice.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and cut it into bite-sized pieces. This helps it cook evenly and absorb more flavor. Season with black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Melt the butter in the same skillet, then add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously as the sauce starts to bubble. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Add Tortellini and Spinach

Add the frozen (or fresh) tortellini, along with the spinach, into the skillet. Stir occasionally and let simmer for 5 minutes, until the spinach wilts and the tortellini is cooked through.

Step 5: Return Chicken to the Pan

Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Let everything simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Beginner Tips and Notes

Cut chicken evenly: This ensures it cooks at the same rate, preventing some pieces from being under or overcooked.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking chicken, give each piece space to brown properly. Overcrowding will cause it to steam instead of sear.
Slowly add the Parmesan: This prevents it from clumping and helps create a smooth, creamy sauce.

Use medium-low heat for the sauce: High heat can cause the cream to separate, so keep it gentle for a silky texture.
Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a couple of minutes helps the sauce thicken slightly and flavors to develop.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: A simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread makes a great pairing.

Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce.
Extra Protein: Add cooked pancetta or crumbled bacon for extra flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months, but the cream sauce may slightly separate upon reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s texture.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is proof that a simple recipe can still be restaurant-quality. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or just want a comforting, creamy dish for yourself, this easy one-pan meal delivers big flavors with minimal effort.

Have you tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out and any fun variations you came up with!

FAQ About Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh tortellini works just as well, but it cooks faster than frozen. Add it towards the end of the cooking process to prevent it from becoming too soft.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and a little cornstarch to maintain the creamy texture. However, the sauce will be slightly less rich.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can check by slicing a piece—it should be completely white inside with no pinkness.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance, then reheat them with the tortellini just before serving. If making ahead, store the sauce separately to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much liquid.

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