Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only delicious but also sure to impress, then you’ve come to the right place! Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is one of those recipes that has a special place in my heart. It combines tender chicken, rich sun-dried tomatoes, and cheesy tortellini into a creamy sauce that feels like a warm hug. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish brings everyone to the table with smiles on their faces.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up something that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen. Trust me, your loved ones will be asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds) when they taste this comforting meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Crowd-pleaser: The creamy sauce and cheesy tortellini make it irresistible for both kids and adults alike!
• Versatile: You can easily modify ingredients or add extras based on what you have at home.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the sauce in advance and cook the pasta later for an effortless dinner.
• Rich flavors: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and spices creates a depth of flavor that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To bring this delightful dish to life, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; most of them are probably already in your kitchen! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Main Dish

• 1 (19 oz) bag frozen cheese tortellini
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil (drained and sliced thin)
• 3 teaspoons garlic (minced)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup parmesan cheese (finely shredded)

For Garnish

• 2 cups baby spinach (chopped)

Variations

One of the best things about Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Substitute chicken with turkey or even grilled shrimp for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the sauce.
• Gluten-free option: Swap regular tortellini with gluten-free versions available at most grocery stores.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. This step is essential as it builds flavor right from the beginning!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and add the seasoned chicken. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through—this should take about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. This step helps seal in those delicious juices!

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

Reduce heat to medium-low and melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing them for about 30 seconds. This quick sauté enhances their flavors, making your dish even more aromatic.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Now it’s time to add depth! Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream while whisking continuously until bubbling. Then slowly whisk in parmesan until melted and smooth. This creamy sauce is what makes Marry Me Chicken Tortellini so irresistible!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return your cooked chicken back into the skillet along with chopped spinach and tortellini. Stir occasionally until spinach wilts—about five minutes of simmering creates magic as all those flavors meld together.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan before serving. Dig in while it’s warm—you won’t be able to resist going back for more!

This Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe is a true celebration of flavors that will make any meal feel special. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Creating the perfect Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is all about the little details that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out absolutely delightful!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes can significantly elevate the flavor profile of your dish, making it taste gourmet.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cooking the chicken just until golden brown will keep it juicy and tender. This helps maintain a delicious texture when combined with the creamy sauce.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, consider substituting half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a plant-based cream alternative. This still keeps the richness while reducing calories.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color, making your meal more vibrant and nourishing.
• Serve Immediately: Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is best enjoyed fresh, as the tortellini can become mushy if left to sit too long in the sauce. Serve it hot for an irresistible experience!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Serving this dish beautifully can make your meal feel even more special! Here are some ideas to present your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini in style.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Extra Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of finely shredded parmesan on top not only enhances flavor but also gives a lovely finishing touch to your plate.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your tortellini, making every bite memorable.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the creamy chicken tortellini perfectly, adding crunch and a refreshing balance to your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts provide a healthy and colorful side that pairs beautifully with this rich dish.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious element while keeping the meal light and vibrant, offering a nice contrast in textures.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress with your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is not only delicious but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and save your leftovers:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool before portioning it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen tortellini in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about preparing Marry Me Chicken Tortellini:

Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh tortellini can be used in this recipe. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, so keep an eye on it while simmering.

What makes Marry Me Chicken Tortellini so special?

This dish combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and cheesy tortellini in a rich, creamy sauce that’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in!

Can I substitute any ingredients in Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out heavy cream for a lighter alternative like half-and-half or coconut cream, and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

How do I make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini healthier?

Consider using whole wheat tortellini, reducing cheese quantity, or adding more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting Marry Me Chicken Tortellini! It’s a wonderful dish that brings people together at the table, whether it’s for an ordinary weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite, and don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family. Happy cooking!