Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe
If you’re searching for a dish that’s both comforting and impressive, then the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe is about to become your new go-to. This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy tortellini in a way that’s irresistibly delicious and quick to prepare. It’s the perfect balance of rich flavors and satisfying textures that will make anyone at your table feel truly special. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a casual get-together, this dish brings warmth and wow-factor all in one pan.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is a breeze with this recipe, and each one plays a vital role in bringing out the best flavors and textures. From the tender chicken breasts to the creamy heavy cream, every component helps make the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe truly unforgettable.
- Chicken breasts: Choose fresh, boneless pieces cut into bite-sized chunks for even cooking and tender bites.
- Cheese tortellini: Fresh or frozen, this adds cheesy pockets of comfort that soak up the sauce perfectly.
- Olive oil: For a subtle richness and to create a golden sear on the chicken.
- Chicken broth: Adds depth and a savory base to the creamy sauce.
- Heavy cream: Creates a luscious, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the tortellini and chicken.
- Garlic powder: A quick way to infuse the dish with warm, aromatic flavor.
- Red pepper flakes: Optional, but they give a gentle kick that livens up the creamy sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for that nutty, salty finish that melts into the sauce.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a bright pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes at the end.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Start by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package directions. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen, this step ensures those cheesy pockets are tender and ready to soak up all the amazing sauce that comes next. Once cooked, drain and set them aside so they’re primed and waiting for the creamy goodness.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Next, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook them until golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 5 to 6 minutes. This step locks in the juiciness of the chicken while giving it a deliciously crispy exterior that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
After your chicken is perfectly cooked, stir in the garlic powder, red pepper flakes if using, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld together and the sauce starts to thicken slightly. This creamy sauce is what makes the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe so unforgettable—rich, smooth, and just the right amount of spice.
Step 4: Combine Tortellini and Cheese
It’s time to bring everything together by adding the cooked tortellini and freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir everything gently to coat the pasta and chicken in that irresistible sauce. Let it heat through for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a perfect consistency, coating every bite with creamy, cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish the dish by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley over the top. Not only does it add a beautiful burst of green color, but it also brings a touch of freshness that nicely balances out the richness of the sauce. Now your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe is ready to serve hot and enjoy immediately.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, or a few more red pepper flakes can elevate the dish visually and taste-wise. A twist of lemon zest or drizzle of good olive oil also adds a fresh brightness that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
Side Dishes
While this recipe serves as a hearty main course on its own, pairing it with a simple green salad or garlic bread can balance out the richness. Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also make lovely companions, adding both texture and color to the table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party touch, serve the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe in shallow bowls and garnish each portion with a sprig of parsley and a wedge of lemon on the side. You can also sprinkle crushed toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs on top for an added crunch that surprises and delights your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce may thicken as it cools, so a quick stir with a splash of broth or cream when reheating helps bring back that lovely silky texture.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, but because of the cream in the sauce, the texture might change slightly. For best results, freeze the chicken and tortellini separately from the sauce and combine when reheating. If you freeze the whole dish, consume within 1 month.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a bit of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it’s become too thick. Alternatively, warming in the microwave works well if you cover the dish to maintain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of tortellini?
Absolutely! While cheese tortellini is classic for this recipe, you can substitute with gnocchi, ravioli, or even penne. Just adjust cooking times accordingly so the pasta is perfectly tender.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream or a creamy plant-based alternative, and use dairy-free Parmesan substitutes or nutritional yeast for that cheesy umami flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe with chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Using chicken thighs works beautifully and adds extra juiciness. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces and adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.
How spicy is the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe?
The red pepper flakes add a mild heat that can be omitted if you prefer a milder dish. It’s easy to adjust the spice level so the recipe fits your taste perfectly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! It stores well and reheats nicely, making it a fantastic option for preparing meals ahead and enjoying flavorful, comforting dinners all week long.
Final Thoughts
After trying the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a fast favorite in so many kitchens. Its creamy, cheesy sauce paired with tender chicken and pillowy tortellini is pure comfort food perfection. So, grab your skillet and ingredients, and get ready to fall in love with a dish that’s sure to impress and satisfy every time.
Print
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a quick and delicious one-pan Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken pieces simmered in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, tossed with cheese tortellini, and garnished with fresh parsley. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Pasta
- 1 (9–12 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini: Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set it aside for later use.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook them for 5 to 6 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Prepare Sauce: Stir in 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional), 1/2 cup chicken broth, and 1/2 cup heavy cream to the skillet with the chicken. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to blend flavors.
- Combine Tortellini and Cheese: Add the cooked tortellini and 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir well to coat the pasta and chicken with the creamy sauce. Continue heating for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, and serve the dish hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use fresh tortellini for the best texture, but frozen works well too.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference or omit for a milder dish.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use milk, though sauce will be less rich.
- Make sure chicken is cooked fully to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
