If you’ve been on the hunt for a dish that feels like a big, warm hug, the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table tonight. This creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy recipe effortlessly combines tender chicken, luscious cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich sauce studded with sun-dried tomatoes that will make you wonder why you haven’t made it sooner. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that brings both elegance and ease into everyday cooking—perfect for weeknights or impressing guests without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward and each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the juicy seasoned chicken to the creamy Parmesan sauce and the chewy tortellini, every component is essential and lovingly contributes to this irresistible dish.
- 1 pound chicken (boneless, skinless, cut into bite size pieces): Tender, juicy chicken pieces form the hearty protein base.
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild warmth to season the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavor profile with gentle garlic notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances and highlights all the other flavors.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Creates richness and helps in browning the chicken perfectly.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic brightens the sauce with aromatic depth.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds savory body to the sauce without heaviness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Provides indulgent creaminess that makes this dish special.
- 2 cups Parmesan cheese (shredded): Delivers that signature nutty, salty cheese flavor that ties it all together.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a hint of heat for those who like a little kick.
- 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes (chopped): Offers bursts of tangy sweetness and vivid color.
- 1 19 oz frozen cheese tortellini: The star carbohydrate component filled with creamy cheese, effortless to cook straight from the freezer.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken Pieces
Start by tossing your diced chicken in a bowl with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. This simple seasoning mix ensures every bite of chicken is flavorful and aromatic before it hits the pan. Taking the time to season properly is key to a dish with depth and balance.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken in Butter
Heat up 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sauté until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through. This browning creates flavor-packed bits that make the sauce even more delicious. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside for later.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet, letting it sizzle just until fragrant. Then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Toss in the optional red pepper flakes for a gentle heat, along with the chopped sun-dried tomatoes which give the sauce vibrant color and a sunny, tangy burst that beautifully offsets the richness.
Step 4: Cook the Tortellini
Bring the sauce mixture to a gentle simmer and add your frozen cheese tortellini directly to the pan. Cover it and reduce the heat to low, allowing the tortellini to cook through in the creamy sauce for 7 to 9 minutes. This step infuses the pasta with flavor while keeping it tender and chewy—perfect texture that elevates the dish.
Step 5: Finish with Chicken and Parmesan
Once the tortellini is tender, toss the browned chicken back into the pan along with the shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together so the sauce thickens slightly and coats each piece of tortellini and chicken with cheesy goodness. The final touch of Parmesan brings that comforting, velvety finish to this soul-satisfying meal.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise. Think torn fresh basil or parsley leaves, which add an herbaceous brightness and a pop of green. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can also give your serving a polished, gourmet touch.
Side Dishes
The creamy richness of the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh sides. A simple green salad with a zesty lemon vinaigrette, garlic roasted broccoli, or even some crusty bread to soak up every last drop of sauce will round out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the tortellini in shallow bowls topped with a generous scatter of Parmesan crisps or toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch contrast. You could also present it in individual ramekins for a more elegant feel or arrange the chicken pieces on top to showcase those beautifully browned morsels.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Before sealing, let it cool to room temperature to avoid sogginess. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, often tasting even better the next day.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. For best results, freeze for up to 2 months. When defrosted, the texture of the tortellini might be softer, but the sauce and chicken remain deliciously intact.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts to prevent curdling of the cream sauce. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream helps revive the luscious sauce and keeps the dish moist and creamy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of tortellini?
Absolutely! While cheese tortellini is classic here, you can swap in ravioli, gnocchi, or even small pasta shapes like penne or rotini. Just adjust cooking times since some pastas cook faster or slower than tortellini.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use a plant-based cheese substitute for the Parmesan. The taste will shift slightly, but it will still be creamy and delicious.
How spicy is the recipe with red pepper flakes?
The amount of red pepper flakes suggested adds just a mild, pleasant heat that balances the creamy sauce. If you prefer milder flavors, simply leave them out, or increase slightly if you like some kick.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can prep the chicken and chop the sun-dried tomatoes ahead of time to speed up cooking. The sauce and tortellini cook quickly, so it’s best to assemble and serve shortly after cooking for that perfect velvety texture.
What wine would pair well with this dish?
A buttery Chardonnay or a lightly oaked Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce and savory chicken. For red wine lovers, a light Pinot Noir complements the flavors without overwhelming the dish.
Final Thoughts
If you want a meal that’s comforting, flavorful, and impressively easy to pull together, the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe delivers on all fronts. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down and savor each creamy, cheesy bite, whether for a cozy night in or an effortless dinner party star. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will quickly become one of your cherished favorites too!
