Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a creamy, comforting dish that blends tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a rich tomato cream sauce. The sauce is smooth and flavorful, with just the…
Tip: save now, cook later.Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a creamy, comforting dish that blends tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a rich tomato cream sauce. The sauce is smooth and flavorful, with just the right hint of herbs and a touch of spice, making every bite feel like a warm hug. It’s one of those dishes that looks fancy but is surprisingly simple to make.
I love making Marry Me Chicken Tortellini when I want to treat myself or impress someone without spending hours in the kitchen. The chicken stays juicy, and the tortellini soaks up all the beautiful sauce, which makes it feel special but still super cozy. My secret? Adding a little fresh basil on top—just enough to brighten the flavors and add a fresh pop to the creamy sauce.
One of my favorite ways to serve this dish is with a crisp green salad on the side or some garlic bread to scoop up every last bit of sauce. It’s a meal that always brings smiles around the table and can turn any regular night into something memorable. Trust me, once you try it, it’s hard not to find yourself making it over and over again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cheese Tortellini: Fresh or refrigerated tortellini works best for a tender bite. If you can’t find cheese-filled, spinach or mushroom tortellini are nice swaps. Frozen can work too but adjust cooking time.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly. You could also use chicken thighs for juicier, richer flavor, though they take slightly longer to cook.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes add tang and sweetness. If you only have dry ones, soak them in warm water first to soften. They really brighten the sauce.
Heavy Cream & Parmesan: Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter version, try half-and-half or whole milk but the sauce won’t be as thick. Parmesan adds salty depth; Pecorino Romano can be a sharper substitute.
Spinach & Basil: Fresh spinach wilts nicely without overpowering the dish. You can swap with kale or arugula if you prefer a different green. Fresh basil on top adds a fresh, herbal note that lifts the creaminess.
How Can I Make the Sauce Thick and Creamy Without It Separating?
Making a smooth cream sauce can feel tricky, but a few simple tips help you get it just right.
- Cook gently: Simmer the cream and broth slowly over medium-low heat. Boiling can cause the cream to separate.
- Add cheese gradually: Stir in Parmesan slowly off the heat or on very low heat to prevent clumping.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Cold cream or cheese can shock the sauce and cause curdling.
- Stir constantly: Keep stirring when adding dairy ingredients to keep the sauce smooth.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking chicken in batches helps it brown properly, adding flavor without releasing excess moisture that can thin the sauce.
Following these steps will give you a luxurious, creamy sauce that hugs every piece of chicken and tortellini perfectly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – to boil the tortellini easily without crowding.
- Large skillet – for cooking chicken and making the creamy sauce in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula – helps stir the sauce without scratching your skillet.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping chicken, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the cream, broth, and spices just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for Italian sausage for a spiced, meaty twist that pairs well with creamy sauce.
- Add mushrooms for an earthy flavor and extra texture.
- Use kale instead of spinach if you want a heartier, more bitter green.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky heat.
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped (oil-packed recommended)
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes for preparation and cooking. You’ll boil the tortellini, cook the chicken, and whip up the creamy sauce, all coming together quickly for a fresh, delicious dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package directions until tender but still firm (al dente). Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and black pepper. Cook them until they’re nicely browned and fully cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Build the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until aromatic. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and the red pepper flakes for a minute to release their flavors.
4. Finish the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, mixing well. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes rich and creamy.
5. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked chicken, baby spinach, and tortellini to the sauce. Gently stir until the spinach wilts and everything is coated evenly in the creamy sauce. Taste and add salt or pepper if needed.
6. Serve Up:
Dish out the tortellini and chicken onto plates. Sprinkle freshly chopped basil and extra Parmesan cheese on top for a fresh, tasty finish. Enjoy your comforting, creamy Marry Me Chicken Tortellini!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen tortellini works well! Just cook it according to the package instructions, usually a minute or two longer than fresh. Make sure to drain it well before adding to the sauce to avoid extra water in the dish.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Substitute Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! Italian sausage, shrimp, or even tofu can be great swaps. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein is fully cooked before combining with the sauce.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter version, try half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be less thick and creamy. You can also use coconut milk for a dairy-free option, though it will alter the flavor slightly.