If you are looking for a dish that combines creamy indulgence with hearty comfort and a touch of elegance, the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe is exactly what you need. This rich and flavorful recipe brings together tender chicken, luscious sun-dried tomatoes, and cheese-filled tortellini tossed in a velvety, parmesan-packed sauce that will have you swooning with every bite. Whether you are cooking for a special someone or treating yourself to a delicious dinner, this dish promises an unforgettable flavor experience that’s deceptively simple yet deeply satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, bringing layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe sing. From the creamy parmesan sauce to the fresh baby spinach, these staples are easy to find but essential for crafting this perfect meal.
- 19 oz frozen cheese tortellini: The star pasta of the dish, filled with cheese for a rich, creamy bite.
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and mild, chicken forms the hearty protein base.
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil: Adds vibrant color and a sweet-tart punch that elevates the sauce.
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic: Provides aromatic depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
- 2 cups heavy cream: The creaminess foundation that makes the sauce irresistible.
- 1 cup parmesan cheese (shredded): Sharp, nutty, and essential for that classic Italian flair.
- Baby spinach: Adds freshness, a slight earthy note, and a pop of vibrant green.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing chicken and infusing richness without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Brings subtle heat and enhances the savory notes.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A handy blend of herbs that frames the dish in authentic Mediterranean taste.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds mild smokiness and gorgeous color highlights.
- 2 tablespoons butter: For sauteeing and enriching the sauce with silky smoothness.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Balances the cream with a savory, lighter component.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Additional seasoning to deepen the herbaceous layers.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Enhances the overall spice and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: A last touch to round out the smoky undertones.
- 2 cups baby spinach (chopped): Added toward the end for fresh texture and color contrast.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts evenly with black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. These spices not only add flavor but also create a beautiful golden crust when cooked. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until it turns golden brown, around 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside—this searing step locks in juices and gives you a tender, flavorful protein base for the dish.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
In the same skillet, melt the butter to deglaze any flavorful bits left from the chicken. Add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, letting them sauté together for about 30 seconds. This quick process releases their enticing aromas and flavors, setting the stage for the rest of the sauce.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Whisk together with Italian seasoning, black pepper, and paprika, bringing the mixture to a gentle bubble. This simmering step helps the flavors meld into a smooth, creamy sauce that coats every ingredient perfectly.
Step 4: Melt in Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle in the shredded parmesan cheese gradually while stirring the sauce. The cheese melts beautifully, creating a luscious thickness and an irresistible nutty flavor that’s key to this Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer Everything Together
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add chopped baby spinach for freshness and color. Finally, toss in the frozen tortellini. Allow everything to simmer gently for about 5 minutes or until the spinach wilts and the tortellini is heated through. This final melding step is where the magic happens, uniting all the elements into one harmonious dish.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the top to add a burst of herbal brightness. A little extra parmesan cheese grated on top enhances the savory depth and gives an elegant look. If you enjoy a touch of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a fiery contrast that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
This dish stands well on its own but pairs delightfully with light, crisp sides. Consider serving with a simple green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is ideal for soaking up every last bit of the indulgent sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts also complement the flavors without overpowering the main course.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Serve the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe in individual shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors and creamy sauce. For a rustic feel, plate it on a large wooden board with garnishes artfully scattered. Hosting a dinner? Pair it with a glass of chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay to elevate the dining experience perfectly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Marry Me Chicken Tortellini keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before sealing to maintain its flavor and texture. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat gently to avoid overcooking the chicken or wilting the spinach too much.
Freezing
This recipe can be frozen, but for best results, freeze before adding spinach, as its texture changes after thawing. Store the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to bring back its creamy goodness without losing any flavor.
Reheating
For reheating, gently warm the leftovers on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up. Avoid microwaving to prevent uneven heating or drying out the chicken, keeping every bite tender and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh tortellini will cook faster and can add an even lighter texture to the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe. Just reduce the simmering time to avoid overcooking the pasta.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious and creamy.
Can I use thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Chicken thighs work great and can add more juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through and tender.
How spicy is the dish?
The Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe has a mild warmth from paprika and black pepper, making it gentle on the palate. Feel free to add chili flakes or cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicier kick.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
You can cook the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time, then store separately. When ready to eat, reheat the sauce gently, add the spinach and tortellini, and simmer until warmed and combined.
Final Thoughts
I truly cannot recommend the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe enough. It’s one of those dishes that feels special enough for date night but easy enough for a weeknight dinner, offering comfort and luxury in equal measure. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be hooked on the creamy, flavorful goodness that makes this recipe a new favorite in your kitchen.
Print
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a creamy, comforting one-pan Italian-inspired dish featuring tender seasoned chicken breasts, cheesy tortellini, sun-dried tomatoes, and baby spinach all simmered in a rich parmesan cream sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this hearty meal combines savory herbs and spices with decadent creaminess for a quick gourmet dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
Sauce and Add-ins
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cups baby spinach, chopped
- 19 oz frozen cheese tortellini
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Pat the boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry and season evenly on all sides with ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning, and ½ teaspoon paprika to infuse flavor.
- Sear the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown on each side and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 3 teaspoons of minced garlic and ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the cream sauce: Pour in 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth and 2 cups heavy cream. Add 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon paprika. Whisk the mixture continuously until it starts bubbling and slightly thickens.
- Add parmesan cheese: Stir in 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese until it completely melts into the sauce, creating a rich, creamy texture.
- Combine and simmer: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add 2 cups chopped baby spinach and 19 oz frozen cheese tortellini directly into the sauce. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, until the spinach wilts and the tortellini is tender.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to keep sodium levels moderate.
- The sun-dried tomatoes in oil add depth and richness; drain excess oil if preferred.
- Ensure chicken is cooked through by checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Frozen tortellini can be substituted with fresh or refrigerated tortellini; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer a bit longer before adding the cheese.
- Spinach can be substituted with kale or arugula as preferred.
