Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a creamy, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken and soft cheese-filled tortellini in a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s got a little bit of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and a touch of parmesan that makes every bite feel special and satisfying.
I love making this dish when I want something that feels fancy but is actually pretty simple to whip up. The sauce gets nice and creamy without needing a ton of ingredients, and the chicken stays juicy and tender. I always find myself sneaking extra bites while it’s cooking because the smell fills the whole kitchen with warmth.
One of my favorite ways to serve this is with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top and a big side of garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. It’s a meal that always gets requests for leftovers, and honestly, I don’t blame anyone for wanting more. It’s cozy, delicious, and feels like a little extra love on a plate.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts work well for quick cooking and tenderness. If you prefer, thighs add more flavor and stay juicy but take a little longer to cook.
Sun-dried Tomatoes: These add a tangy, rich depth to the sauce. If you can’t find sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers can be a tasty alternative.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce creamy and smooth. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mix of cream and milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty, nutty flavor. If unavailable, Romano or Asiago cheeses work well.
Tortellini: Cheese-filled tortellini is the classic choice here. You can swap for ravioli, or even use pasta shells or gnocchi to mix things up.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach wilts quickly and adds freshness. If needed, kale or Swiss chard can be used, though they need a bit longer to cook.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Tender and Juicy?
Since the chicken cooks quickly and is the star protein here, keeping it tender is key. Follow these tips:
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized, even pieces so they cook uniformly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to get a nice golden sear.
- Cook over medium-high heat but watch closely so pieces don’t dry out or burn.
- Remove the chicken once cooked through to avoid overcooking while making the sauce.
These steps keep your chicken juicy and perfectly cooked, blending well into the creamy sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large nonstick skillet – perfect for browning chicken and cooking the creamy sauce without sticking.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring the sauce gently without scratching the pan.
- Medium pot – needed to boil the tortellini until tender.
- Colander – to drain the cooked tortellini quickly and easily.
- Chef’s knife – to cut the chicken and chop the sun-dried tomatoes finely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for Italian sausage for a spicier, heartier taste that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Use mozzarella or provolone cheese tortellini for a milder, gooier filling instead of the classic cheese blend.
- Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor and extra texture that complements the sauce nicely.
- Stir in fresh basil or oregano instead of parsley for a slightly different fresh herb note.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (150 g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably packed in oil)
- 2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 package (about 9 oz/250 g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
Time Needed:
This creamy dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken and sauce, 7-9 minutes boiling the tortellini, and a few minutes combining everything. It’s a quick and satisfying recipe perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and put it aside for now.
2. Make the Sauce Base:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté them for about 1 to 2 minutes until you can smell their wonderful flavors. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Let it come to a gentle simmer.
3. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes. Keep simmering the sauce for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Taste and add salt and pepper as you like.
4. Cook the Tortellini:
While the sauce simmers, cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until it’s tender but still firm (al dente). Drain well.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the chicken to the skillet and add fresh baby spinach. Stir and cook just until the spinach wilts. Gently fold the drained tortellini into the sauce, making sure each piece is coated in that creamy goodness.
6. Final Touches and Serving:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil on top for bright color and fresh flavor. Serve your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini right away, with crusty garlic bread or a crisp green salad on the side if you wish. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the cold water method by placing the chicken in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. This ensures even cooking and helps the chicken stay tender.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter option, try using half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream. Keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and creamy but still tasty. Avoid using skim milk as it may cause the sauce to curdle.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Marry Me Chicken Tortellini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini make great additions. Add them right after cooking the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to let them soften before adding the liquids and cream.
