Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe

If you're looking for a dish that's guaranteed to impress, look no further than the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe. This creamy, savory, and downright delicious meal is perfect for date nights, family dinners, or special occasions. With its combination of juicy chicken, tender tortellini, and a luscious sauce that's packed with flavor, it’s no wonder why people claim this dish is so irresistible that it could inspire a marriage proposal. Whether you're cooking to wow someone special or just treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal, keep reading to learn how to master this incredible dish!

this Recipe

What is “Marry Me Chicken Tortellini”?

"Marry Me Chicken Tortellini" is a variation of the popular "Marry Me Chicken" recipe that has been making waves online. The original dish features pan-seared chicken breasts in a creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce. The tortellini variation adds an extra layer of indulgence by incorporating cheese-stuffed tortellini, making the meal even more filling and decadent. The dish gets its name from its rich, flavorful sauce that’s so good, it’s rumored to inspire marriage proposals after just one bite!

Ingredients List for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

To make the best Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, gather the following ingredients:

1. Chicken Breasts (or thighs) – 2 large, boneless, and skinless
2. Cheese Tortellini – 12 ounces (fresh or frozen)
3. Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons (for searing the chicken)
4. Salt and Pepper – To taste
5. Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
6. Sun-Dried Tomatoes – ⅓ cup, chopped
7. Chicken Broth – 1 cup (low-sodium)
8. Heavy Cream – 1 cup
9. Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup, freshly grated
10. Italian Seasoning – 1 teaspoon
11. Red Pepper Flakes – ¼ teaspoon (optional for heat)
12. Fresh Basil – ¼ cup, chopped (for garnish)
13. Butter – 2 tablespoons (optional for extra richness)

Ingredients List for Additional Flavor Boosts

If you want to take this recipe to the next level or add your own twist, consider these additional ingredients:

1. Mushrooms – 1 cup, sliced, to add an earthy depth to the sauce.
2. Spinach – 1-2 cups of fresh spinach leaves to sneak in some greens.
3. White Wine – ¼ cup, for deglazing the pan and adding extra richness to the sauce.
4. Mozzarella Cheese – ½ cup, shredded, for a gooey cheese pull effect when serving.
5. Lemon Zest – 1 teaspoon, to add brightness and cut through the richness of the sauce.
6. Capers – 1 tablespoon, for a briny, tangy addition.
7. Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Adjust to taste if you want more spice.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is how versatile it is. Here are some substitution ideas if you need to adjust the recipe based on what you have in your kitchen or dietary preferences:

• Pasta Substitutes: While tortellini adds a unique texture and cheesy goodness, you can substitute it with other pasta varieties like penne, fettuccine, or gnocchi.
• Protein Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of chicken, try substituting it with shrimp, pork tenderloin, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
• Vegetarian Variation: Skip the chicken and increase the amount of tortellini or add more veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to make it completely vegetarian.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace the tortellini with zoodles (zucchini noodles) or spaghetti squash for a low-carb take on this dish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to dive into the step-by-step cooking process. Follow these instructions closely for the best results:

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

• Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel, then season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Once the oil is hot, sear the chicken breasts for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Start the Sauce

• In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Pour in the chicken broth, using a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This deglazing step adds extra flavor to the sauce.

Step 3: Add Cream and Cheese

• Reduce the heat to medium-low, and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese.
• Add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using) to the sauce. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

• While the sauce is simmering, cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Fresh tortellini usually takes about 3-4 minutes, while frozen may take a bit longer. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Combine and Finish the Dish

• Add the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, allowing them to cook in the sauce for another 5 minutes so they absorb the flavors.
• Toss the cooked tortellini into the skillet, gently stirring to coat the pasta in the sauce. Add the butter here if you want to increase the richness of the sauce.
• Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan before serving.

How to Cook Marry Me Chicken Tortellini: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking Marry Me Chicken Tortellini isn’t just about following the steps—it's about paying attention to the little details that elevate the dish. Here are some tips to help you nail it:

• Sear Your Chicken: Don’t rush the searing process. You want to create a beautiful golden crust on the chicken breasts, which adds a rich depth of flavor to the dish.
• Deglaze the Pan: When making the sauce, ensure that you scrape up the brown bits (fond) from the bottom of the skillet after searing the chicken. This will infuse the sauce with extra flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Fresh tortellini cooks quickly, and overcooking it will result in a mushy texture. Keep an eye on it and taste-test for the perfect al dente texture.
• Simmer, Don’t Boil: When making the cream sauce, simmer it gently over medium-low heat. Boiling can cause the cream to separate, resulting in a grainy texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes when making Marry Me Chicken Tortellini to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time:

• Using Low-Quality Parmesan: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese can sometimes have anti-caking agents, which can affect the texture of the sauce.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the right internal temperature (165°F).
• Forgetting to Season the Sauce: Don’t forget to taste your sauce before serving. Add salt, pepper, and even a squeeze of lemon juice if needed to balance out the flavors.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a visually stunning dish with its rich, creamy sauce and vibrant colors. Here are a few tips for serving and presentation:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor to the dish.
• Serve in a Large Skillet or Cast Iron Pan: If you're serving a crowd, you can bring the entire skillet to the table for a rustic presentation.
• Plate with Parmesan: Add a final sprinkle of Parmesan on top of each serving for that perfect finishing touch.
• Wine Pairing: Serve with a glass of crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the richness of the sauce.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

This dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet. You can serve it in individual portions or present it family-style in the skillet or a large serving dish. Accompany it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the meal. The combination of creamy sauce, tender tortellini, and juicy chicken makes this an incredibly satisfying dish, so don’t be surprised if your guests ask for seconds!

Presentation Ideas for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

If you're preparing this dish for a special occasion, presentation matters. Consider these ideas:

• Use a Shallow Bowl: Serve the tortellini in a shallow bowl to show off the sauce and make it easy to spoon up every last bit.
• Rustic Chic: Serve the dish directly from a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, homey feel that’s still elegant.
• Top with Basil Ribbons: Roll basil leaves together and slice them into thin ribbons for a decorative garnish.

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, warm it up on the stove and proceed with the recipe.
• Thickening the Sauce: If your sauce isn’t thick enough, let it simmer for a few extra minutes or add a bit more Parmesan to thicken it.
• Add Veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time. You can reheat it and add freshly cooked tortellini and chicken before serving.

What other types of cheese can I use?
While Parmesan is traditional, you can also use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a slightly different flavor.

Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?
It’s best eaten fresh, but you can freeze leftovers. Reheat gently to prevent the sauce from separating.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is the ultimate comfort food with a romantic twist. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy tortellini, this dish is bound to impress. Whether you're cooking for a special someone or simply treating yourself, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results at home. Make sure to follow the step-by-step instructions and tips to create a dish so irresistible, it just might inspire a proposal!

Print