Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe

Are you looking for a dish that's so delicious it might just make someone fall in love with you? Look no further than this Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe! Combining tender chicken, pillowy tortellini, and a luscious creamy sauce infused with sundried tomatoes, garlic, and parmesan, this dish is the perfect marriage of flavors and textures. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner or simply looking for a new favorite weeknight meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and prepare to make a dish that's truly unforgettable!

this Recipe

What Is Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a spin on the popular "Marry Me Chicken" recipe, which is known for its irresistible creamy sauce made with heavy cream, parmesan, garlic, and sundried tomatoes. The tortellini twist adds a comforting, pasta-filled element to the dish that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. The tender chicken, savory sauce, and rich cheese-filled tortellini create a one-pot meal that’s decadent and satisfying. It's said that the dish is so good it could inspire a marriage proposal—hence the name!

Ingredients List for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Before you start cooking, make sure you’ve gathered all the necessary ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need to make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini:

For the Chicken and Tortellini:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 package (9-12 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
• 2 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the chicken)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (to mix with the sauce)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tablespoon butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• ½ cup chicken broth (for extra flavor and to adjust sauce consistency)
• ½ cup sundried tomatoes, drained and chopped
• ⅓ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (for a richer sauce)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

Don’t worry if you don’t have every ingredient on hand. Here are some substitutions and variations you can make to suit your preferences:

• Tortellini: Use spinach- or mushroom-filled tortellini for a different flavor. You can also use other pasta like penne, fettuccine, or ravioli.
• Chicken: Chicken thighs work well in place of chicken breasts if you prefer a juicier cut of meat. You can also substitute with turkey or omit the chicken for a vegetarian version.
• Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. You could also use a dairy-free cream if you're avoiding lactose.
• Sundried Tomatoes: If you’re not a fan of sundried tomatoes, try using roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes instead.
• Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can be used in place of parmesan for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Spice Level: Add more red pepper flakes if you like extra heat, or leave them out if you prefer a milder sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking! This recipe is simple, but the result is a dish so good it’s bound to impress anyone at the table.

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

1. Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set them aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.
2. Season and Cook the Chicken: While the tortellini is cooking, season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and melt over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Add the Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Add Sundried Tomatoes and Parmesan: Stir in the chopped sundried tomatoes and ⅓ cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. If you like a little kick, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes at this stage.
6. Combine Chicken and Tortellini with Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat the chicken in the sauce. Then, gently fold in the cooked tortellini, making sure every piece is covered in the rich, creamy sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve: Turn off the heat and sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. For extra flavor, you can also add an extra dusting of parmesan on top. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this dish is fairly simple, there are a few common mistakes that could affect your results. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Overcooking the Tortellini: Tortellini cooks quickly, and overcooking can make them too soft. Check the package instructions and be sure to drain them when they’re just al dente so they don’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns easily and can turn bitter if overcooked. When sautéing the garlic, make sure to keep the heat medium and stir it frequently, cooking only until it’s fragrant.
• Thickening the Sauce Too Much: The sauce should be creamy but not too thick. If it thickens too much while simmering, add a little more chicken broth to loosen it up.
• Undercooking the Chicken: Make sure your chicken is fully cooked before adding it back to the sauce. It should be golden on the outside and no longer pink in the center.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can make a big difference in how your dish is perceived. Whether you’re serving it for a romantic date night or a casual family dinner, here are some tips to serve your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini beautifully.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Tortellini:

• Serve the dish straight from the skillet for a rustic, cozy feel, or plate it individually for a more refined presentation.
• This dish pairs perfectly with a side of garlic bread or a light green salad to balance the richness of the sauce.
• For a more elegant meal, serve the tortellini with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, which complements the creaminess of the sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini:

• Garnish with extra basil or parsley leaves on top for a pop of color.
• Serve the dish in a wide, shallow bowl to show off the creamy sauce and colorful sundried tomatoes.
• For a final flourish, sprinkle some freshly grated parmesan over the top and add a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe Tips

To ensure your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is perfect every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Tortellini: Fresh or refrigerated tortellini has a better texture than frozen or dried tortellini, but if frozen is all you have, it will still work well—just adjust the cooking time.
• Don’t Skimp on the Sundried Tomatoes: The sundried tomatoes bring a burst of tangy sweetness that cuts through the richness of the sauce. Be sure to chop them finely and use a good-quality brand packed in oil for maximum flavor.
• Adjust the Sauce to Taste: If you like your sauce more cheesy, add extra parmesan. If you prefer a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, you can! Just follow the package instructions for cooking frozen tortellini, and then proceed with the recipe.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh, you can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and then reheat before adding freshly cooked tortellini when ready to serve.

Can I make a vegetarian version?
Yes! Omit the chicken and use a variety of mushrooms or your favorite plant-based protein instead. The sauce is so flavorful that it works well without meat.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is the perfect dish for any occasion—whether you’re trying to impress a special someone or simply want to indulge in a rich, comforting meal. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful tortellini, and a creamy sauce made with garlic, sundried tomatoes, and parmesan is pure perfection. Try this recipe tonight, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new favorite in your household! Share it with your loved ones—they’ll be asking for seconds (and maybe even a proposal) before you know it.

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