Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

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Introduction

There are some meals that just feel like a celebration on a plate. Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is one of those dishes. You know the kind—the one that you make and immediately think, “This could be the one.” It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, with tender chicken and soft, pillowy tortellini, all coated in a luscious, garlicky sauce. If that doesn’t sound like love at first bite, I don’t know what does! This dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser and, trust me, it has the power to make everyone gather around the table with big smiles and full stomachs.

It’s the kind of comfort food that’ll have your family or friends raving about it long after the last bite is gone. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or looking to impress at a weekend gathering, this dish hits all the right notes. Plus, it’s easy to make, so you don’t have to be a gourmet chef to pull it off. In fact, I’m pretty sure you’ll be wondering why you hadn’t made it sooner!

What makes this recipe so special is the balance of flavors. The juicy chicken, the creamy sauce, and the perfect addition of tortellini come together in the most magical way. And the name? “Marry Me” Chicken is no joke! The story behind the name goes that this dish is so delicious, it could make someone want to propose on the spot. After making it a few times, you’ll understand why! If you’re looking to add a little excitement to your kitchen, this recipe is the way to go.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are a million reasons to fall head over heels for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, but here are the top five that’ll have you reaching for your apron and gathering your ingredients:

1. Easy and Quick: Even if you’re a kitchen beginner, this dish is incredibly simple to put together. You won’t need any fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. It’s all about getting a few pantry staples and fresh items, and then letting the flavors work their magic.
2. Comfort Food with a Twist: We all love a good bowl of pasta, but this dish takes things to a whole new level. The chicken and tortellini combo is like a cozy hug in a bowl, but the rich, garlicky cream sauce brings it up a notch.
3. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or a special someone, this meal will not disappoint. It’s one of those dishes that’s guaranteed to make everyone around the table ask for seconds. And who doesn’t love a recipe that brings people together?
4. Flavorful and Filling: This recipe is loaded with flavor, and the combination of creamy sauce and tender chicken makes it super satisfying. Plus, the addition of tortellini adds a little extra heartiness, making it a complete meal.
5. Customizable: You can easily tweak this recipe to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Want to make it spicier? Add some red pepper flakes. Looking for a lighter version? Use grilled chicken and swap out the cream for a lighter sauce.

This dish is truly a showstopper, and I promise you’ll love it from the first bite. Whether you’re cooking it for a romantic dinner or just because you deserve something amazing, this recipe will hit the spot every time.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories per serving: 620
• Protein: 38g
• Carbs: 40g
• Fat: 38g

You’ll have plenty of time to relax and enjoy your meal once everything’s prepared—this dish comes together fast, and it serves 4, which is perfect for a small family dinner or a get-together with friends.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for this irresistible dish:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 package of cheese tortellini (about 9 ounces)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Fresh basil (for garnish)

Why These Ingredients Are Essential:

• Chicken: The chicken breasts bring lean protein and tenderness to the dish. They soak up all the delicious flavors from the creamy sauce.
• Heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce rich and indulgent. It creates that luxurious texture you’ll love spooning over the tortellini.
• Tortellini: Tortellini adds substance to the dish. You can choose from a variety of fillings (cheese, spinach, etc.) based on your preference.
• Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor to the sauce, helping to balance out the richness.
• Butter and garlic: The combination of butter and garlic is a tried-and-true pairing that sets the foundation for the sauce’s depth of flavor.

Step-by-Step

Instructions

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making this delicious dish. Don’t worry, it’s easier than it looks, and I’ll walk you through every step.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Season the chicken: Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Simple, right? This is key for enhancing the natural flavor of the chicken.
• Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know the chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to rest.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

• Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. The garlic should be golden but not burnt—keep an eye on it!
• Create the creamy base: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and thicken.
• Add seasonings: Stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). These spices will really elevate the sauce and give it that extra burst of flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Tortellini

• While your sauce is simmering, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your tortellini according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, drain the water and set the tortellini aside.

Step 4: Bring it All Together

• Slice the chicken: While the tortellini is cooking, slice your chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
• Combine everything: Add the cooked tortellini into the creamy sauce and stir to coat the pasta evenly. Toss in the sliced chicken and stir to combine. Let everything cook together for a couple of minutes to heat through and blend the flavors.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

• Serve it up: Spoon the creamy, dreamy chicken tortellini onto plates. Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if you like.
• Enjoy: Serve this right away while it’s hot and creamy! It’s the perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and comforting.

How to Serve

Here are some delicious ways to serve your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini:

• Simple Side Salad: Pair with a light, crunchy salad to balance out the richness of the dish. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette would be perfect!
• Garlic Bread: What’s pasta without some crispy, buttery garlic bread to soak up that creamy sauce?
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside some roasted veggies, like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, to add some color and texture to your meal.

Additional Tips

To make sure your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini turns out perfectly, here are a few extra tips:

1. Season your chicken well: Don’t skip the step of seasoning your chicken before cooking—it makes a huge difference in the overall flavor.
2. Don’t overcook the tortellini: Keep an eye on the tortellini while it’s cooking. Overcooking it can make it mushy, and nobody wants that!
3. Adjust the sauce thickness: If your sauce feels too thick, add a little more chicken broth or a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
4. Garnish generously: A little extra Parmesan and fresh basil goes a long way in making the dish look as good as it tastes.
5. Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese can sometimes have a weird texture when melted. Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully and adds a richer flavor.

Recipe Variations

There are plenty of ways to customize Marry Me Chicken Tortellini to fit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use grilled mushrooms or cauliflower for a vegetarian option. Add a handful of spinach for a little extra veggie goodness!
• Spicy: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle them on top as a garnish.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini to make this recipe suitable for those avoiding gluten. There are plenty of delicious gluten-free pasta options out there these days.
• Dairy-Free: Swap the heavy cream for a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk and use dairy-free Parmesan for a dairy-free version.

Serving Suggestions

For a truly satisfying meal, here are some side dishes and drinks that complement this recipe perfectly:

• Side Dishes: Pair with roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or cherry tomatoes, for a colorful and nutritious side. A creamy mashed potato also pairs beautifully with this dish.
• Drinks: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay would work wonderfully with the creamy chicken tortellini. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon is refreshing.

Freezing and Storage

This dish makes great leftovers, and if you’re looking to store it or freeze it for later, here’s how to do it:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Freezing: To freeze, store the cooked dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

Special Equipment

You won’t need anything fancy to make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, but a few tools will help:

• Large Skillet: A wide, heavy-bottomed skillet is perfect for making the sauce and cooking the chicken.
• Large Pot: For boiling the tortellini.
• Grater: A microplane or box grater will help you shred Parmesan finely and evenly.

FAQ Section

Can I use store-bought tortellini?

Yes! You can use store-bought tortellini for a quick and easy meal. Fresh or frozen tortellini works well in this dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, and then assemble the dish with the tortellini just before serving. This will save you time when it’s time to eat!

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or milk, though the sauce will be slightly less creamy. Adding a little extra butter can help mimic the richness of cream.

Can I use different protein?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even tofu if you’re looking for a different protein source.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a dish that’s not just about food—it’s about creating memories and sharing moments of joy with those you love. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or someone special, this dish is sure to be a hit. The creamy, cheesy goodness combined with the tender chicken and tortellini will have everyone asking for seconds. I can’t wait to hear how your version turns out—be sure to leave a comment or tag me on Instagram so I can see your creations. Happy cooking!