Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe

The Ultimate Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe for Love Birds

A creamy chicken tortellini that could seriously marry your taste buds at first bite.

This Italian-inspired dish brings together tender chicken and cheesy pasta in a luxurious sauce that feels like a warm culinary hug.

Rich sun-dried tomatoes add unexpected bursts of tangy brightness to each forkful.

Fragrant herbs weave through the sauce, creating layers of complex flavor that dance across your palate.

Weeknight dinners deserve something special, and this recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal.

Simple yet sophisticated, the combination of ingredients promises a restaurant-quality experience straight from your kitchen.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this delightful pasta creation.

Tricks For Perfect Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

  • Boost Flavor Depth: Toast the Italian seasoning in the skillet for 30 seconds before adding liquid to enhance its aromatic profile and intensify the dish's taste.
  • Prevent Sauce Separation: Gradually add Parmesan cheese while stirring constantly to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce without clumping or breaking.
  • Customize Heat Level: Adjust red pepper flakes to match your spice preference, starting with a pinch and increasing gradually for controlled heat.
  • Make It Lighter: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lower-calorie version without sacrificing richness.
  • Vegetarian Transformation: Replace chicken with roasted portobello mushrooms or plant-based chicken alternatives to create a meat-free version of this delicious dish.

How To Keep Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Tasty

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Let the dish cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
  • Reheating Skillet Method: Warm the tortellini and chicken over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore moisture and prevent drying out. Stir gently to distribute heat evenly.
  • Microwave Option: Heat in short 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even warming. Add a tablespoon of cream or broth to maintain sauce consistency.
  • Freezing Tips: While possible, cream-based sauces can separate when frozen. If freezing, separate sauce and pasta. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat slowly to preserve texture.

Serving Ideas For Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: A chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the creamy sauce, balancing the rich flavors with its bright, zesty notes.
  • Complement with Fresh Salad: A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty tortellini, adding a peppery crunch and citrus brightness.
  • Match with Garlic Bread: Crusty, toasted garlic bread helps soak up the decadent sauce, offering a perfect textural companion that enhances the dish's Italian-inspired profile.
  • Serve with Sparkling Water: A fizzy mineral water with a slice of lemon cleanses the palate between bites, preventing the creamy sauce from feeling too heavy.

Tasty Twists On Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

  • Mediterranean Herb Fusion: Replace Italian seasoning with fresh oregano, thyme, and rosemary for a more robust Mediterranean flavor profile.
  • Spicy Southwestern Style: Add diced green chiles, swap red pepper flakes for chipotle powder, and sprinkle some smoked paprika to create a zesty southwestern kick.
  • Creamy Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with roasted portobello mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, maintaining the rich, luxurious sauce texture.
  • Lean Protein Swap: Replace chicken with grilled shrimp or seared salmon for a lighter protein alternative that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Answers To Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Questions

  • What makes this Marry Me Chicken Tortellini so special?

This dish combines creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy tortellini in a flavor-packed meal that’s guaranteed to impress. The sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning create a restaurant-quality taste that feels luxurious yet easy to make.

  • Can I make this recipe spicy or mild?

Absolutely! The red pepper flakes are optional, so you can adjust the heat level to your preference. For no heat, skip the red pepper flakes entirely. For more kick, add extra flakes or use a spicy Italian seasoning blend.

  • Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store separately. When ready to eat, reheat the sauce, cook fresh tortellini, and combine. The dish reheats well and maintains its delicious creamy texture.

  • What kind of tortellini works best in this recipe?

Any cheese-filled tortellini will work great – whether it’s fresh, frozen, or refrigerated. Cheese tortellini pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce and complements the chicken beautifully.

Why You’ll Crave Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

  • Savor Creamy Comfort: This dish delivers a luxurious, velvety sauce that hugs each tortellini with rich, indulgent flavor.
  • Quickly Craft Gourmet Meal: Busy home cooks can whip up this restaurant-quality dinner in just 25 minutes with simple ingredients and straightforward cooking steps.
  • Transform Ordinary Ingredients: Sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning elevate basic chicken and pasta into a mouthwatering meal that feels special without complicated techniques.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, tender combination of chicken and tortellini in a creamy, slightly spicy sauce that satisfies every palate.

What You Need For Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Main Protein:
  • Chicken: Tender protein that forms the heart of the dish, boneless and skinless for easy cooking.
  • Tortellini: Cheese-filled pasta that adds delightful texture and flavor to the meal.
Dairy and Cream Components:
  • Heavy Cream: Rich base that creates a luxurious and smooth sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp, salty depth and helps thicken the sauce, best when freshly grated.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that provides intense, warm flavor base.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Concentrated, sweet-tangy element that brings Mediterranean brightness.
  • Italian Seasoning: Herb blend that adds classic Mediterranean warmth.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Optional spicy kick for those who enjoy heat.
  • Fresh Basil or Parsley: Fresh herb garnish for color and bright finish.
Cooking Basics:
  • Olive Oil: Helps sear chicken and prevent sticking.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings for enhancing natural flavors.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds additional depth and moisture to the sauce.

How To Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

How To Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Step 1: Sizzle and Season Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium flame. Sprinkle chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Cook chicken until it turns golden and reaches perfect doneness, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Awaken Fragrant Flavors

In the same skillet, toss in minced garlic and let it dance until aromatic. Pour in these delightful ingredients:
  • Heavy cream
  • Chicken broth
  • Sun-dried tomatoes
  • Italian seasoning
  • Red pepper flakes

Stir the mixture and let it bubble gently.

Step 3: Create Creamy Magic

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese into the sauce, stirring until it melts into a silky smooth consistency. Return chicken to the skillet, letting it swim in the luxurious sauce for 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Introduce Tortellini

Boil tortellini in a separate pot following package directions. Drain the pasta and slide it into the skillet. Carefully toss everything together, ensuring each tortellini gets coated in the dreamy sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Scatter fresh basil or parsley on top. Plate immediately and watch everyone’s eyes light up with anticipation. Enjoy your show-stopping Marry Me Chicken Tortellini!

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Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe


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4.6 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy marry me chicken tortellini brings Italian-inspired romance to dinner tables with its irresistible blend of tender chicken and cheesy pasta. Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luxurious sauce promise to make hearts flutter and taste buds dance.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 lb (454 grams) chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Dairy and Cheese:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 package (20 ounces / 567 grams) cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)

Seasonings and Flavor Enhancers:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish:

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken by seasoning with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage across each piece.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium flame, then sear chicken until golden and thoroughly cooked, approximately 5-7 minutes.
  3. Transfer cooked chicken to a separate plate, keeping the flavorful skillet remnants for the next stage.
  4. Introduce minced garlic to the same skillet, sautéing until its aromatic essence permeates the pan.
  5. Create a rich sauce by incorporating heavy cream, chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes.
  6. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing the ingredients to meld and develop deep flavors.
  7. Whisk Parmesan cheese into the simmering liquid, creating a smooth, creamy consistency.
  8. Return chicken pieces to the skillet, allowing them to bathe in the luxurious sauce for 3-5 minutes.
  9. Simultaneously, cook tortellini in a separate pot according to package guidelines until perfectly tender.
  10. Drain tortellini and gently fold into the chicken and sauce mixture, ensuring each piece is lavishly coated.
  11. Finish the dish by scattering fresh basil or parsley over the top for a vibrant, aromatic garnish.
  12. Serve immediately while the sauce remains warm and inviting.

Notes

  • Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking and tender meat.
  • Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior.
  • Control spice levels by adjusting red pepper flakes to personal heat preference.
  • Consider using fresh tortellini from the refrigerated section for a more authentic, restaurant-quality taste.
  • Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version of the sauce.
  • Ensure sun-dried tomatoes are well-chopped to distribute flavor evenly throughout the dish.
  • Add extra Parmesan cheese for a richer, more intense cheese flavor.
  • For a gluten-free option, swap tortellini with zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta alternatives.
  • Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the dish’s visual appeal and add a bright, fresh note.
  • Keep the sauce simmering on low heat to prevent separation and maintain a smooth consistency.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 650
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 35 g
  • Saturated Fat: 16 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 150 mg
Jenna Stewart

Jenna Stewart

Head Chef & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-Table Cooking; Seasonal Menu Development; Visual Plating Techniques; Flavor Layering and Simple Prep Hacks.

Education

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on training in classic and modern techniques, global cuisines, and flavor development, combined with real-world experience in restaurant operations, business management, and industry internships.

Jenna Stewart is the inventive spirit behind many of our standout dishes at Pro of Delicious Creations. A proud graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, she built her skills mastering both classic recipes and fresh, modern twists.

Now, Jenna celebrates the beauty of seasonal, local ingredients, often sourced from her garden and nearby markets, to create recipes that are bursting with flavor yet easy to follow. When she’s not experimenting in the kitchen, Jenna loves exploring nature on hikes and discovering new treasures at local co-ops.

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