Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe

If you’ve ever wished for a dinner that’s impossibly rich, creamy, and dreamy, look no further: this Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe is an absolute showstopper. Succulent chicken, plump cheese tortellini, and a sun-dried tomato cream sauce come together in the ultimate cozy combination—one bite and you’ll understand why people call it “Marry Me.” It’s weeknight-easy, totally company-worthy, and each forkful is a celebration of luscious flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a sweetheart or treating yourself, this is the pasta dish destined to win hearts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe lies in its impressive yet straightforward ingredient list. Each component brings a unique flavor, texture, or color that makes this dish unforgettable—don’t skip a thing!

• Chicken breasts: Tender, boneless, skinless chicken brings protein to the party and soaks up all that creamy sauce goodness.
• Cheese tortellini: These joyful pasta pockets are cheesy, satisfying, and made for soaking up rich sauce.
• Olive oil: For sautéing and adding a subtle fruity base note.
• Butter: Adds richness and a hint of decadent flavor to the chicken and sauce.
• Garlic: Essential for its aromatic, savory kick that permeates the whole dish.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Sweet-tart and chewy, these deliver big flavor and gorgeous color.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs to tie all the flavors together, reminiscent of your favorite trattoria.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Adds just a whisper of heat to balance the richness—use as much or as little as you like.
• Heavy cream: The foundation of the ultra-creamy, dreamy sauce you’ll want to lick off your plate.
• Chicken broth: Thins out the sauce just enough and imparts subtle savory depth.
• Parmesan cheese: Salty and nutty, this is a must for flavor and that beautiful cheesy pull.
• Salt and pepper: Basic, but crucial for seasoning every layer to perfection.
• Fresh basil or parsley: A shower of bright green, herby freshness right before serving makes everything pop.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat. Once they’re shimmering and smelling irresistible, add your thinly sliced chicken breasts. Sear them until crisp and golden outside and just cooked through inside—about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm; you’ll add it back soon for that final saucy reunion.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same glorious skillet, add minced garlic and sliced sun-dried tomatoes. Let them sizzle and release all their aroma into the oil and butter left behind. Cook until fragrant, about a minute, stirring so nothing burns but everything gets beautifully coated. This is where the magic starts!

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like things a touch spicy. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then scatter in the Parmesan cheese. Give everything a loving stir, letting the cheese melt and the sauce soften those sun-dried tomatoes. Simmer gently for 5 minutes—watch as the sauce thickens and turns silky.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

While the sauce does its thing, cook the tortellini according to package directions—usually just a few minutes in boiling salted water. Drain them well; these little cheese-filled gems are now ready to join the party.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Add the seared chicken back into your skillet along with the cooked tortellini. Toss everything gently so the sauce envelopes every piece of chicken and pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let it all warm together for a minute or two. You’re looking for creamy, dreamy, saucy unity!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, scatter chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top. This final touch brings color and a fresh, herby aroma that brightens up the entire Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe

Garnishes

This dish is already a stunner, but a generous sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley just before serving makes it restaurant-worthy. A final grating of parmesan never hurts either—those nutty shavings almost melt into the sauce, making each bite pop even more.

Side Dishes

The Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe begs for something simple on the side to soak up that luscious sauce. Think buttery garlic bread, a crisp green salad with lemony vinaigrette, or even gently roasted veggies like asparagus or broccoli. Keep it uncomplicated—you want the pasta to shine.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual weeknight, serve straight from the skillet at the table, family-style. If you’re going for wow-factor, pile generous scoops into shallow bowls and shower with fresh herbs. Or, for a party, serve in mini ramekins for a unique appetizer—don’t forget extra sauce for dipping!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have any leftovers, transfer the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen a bit, making tomorrow’s lunch a treat!

Freezing

While tortellini and creamy sauces don’t always freeze well (the sauce can separate), you can freeze the chicken and sauce without the pasta for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, cook fresh tortellini and combine with the reheated sauce and chicken for the best taste and texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of extra chicken broth or cream to help loosen up the sauce. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until everything is hot and creamy again. Avoid overcooking so the tortellini stay tender.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of tortellini?

Absolutely! While cheese tortellini makes this dish extra hearty and decadent, other stuffed pastas like ravioli work well. You could even use penne or fettuccine in a pinch—just make sure to cook it until al dente for best results.

Is there a lighter substitute for heavy cream?

You can swap in half-and-half or a combination of milk and a splash of cream, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be quite as rich. Full-fat coconut milk can work for a dairy-free twist, though it will add a subtle coconut note.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. You might add sautéed mushrooms, extra cheese tortellini, or even pan-fried tofu for protein—the creamy sauce is delicious with almost anything!

What’s the best way to get the chicken juicy and tender?

Slice or pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness so they cook quickly and evenly. Don’t overcrowd the skillet—give each piece space to sear for maximum golden color and juiciness.

Can I prepare Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe ahead of time?

You can make the sauce and cook the chicken ahead, then combine everything just before serving. Tortellini is best cooked fresh, so wait to add it until you’re ready to eat for optimal texture.

Final Thoughts

I’m so excited for you to experience the magic of the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe. With its irresistible golden chicken, pillowy tortellini, and sun-dried tomato cream, this is the kind of meal that makes any day feel special. Trust me—once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular at your dinner table!

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