Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a rich, creamy, and flavor-packed pasta dish that combines tender chicken with cheese-filled tortellini in a sun-dried tomato cream sauce. Inspired by the popular “Marry Me Chicken,” this version adds pasta for a heartier, more satisfying meal that’s perfect for date nights, special dinners, or when you want something truly comforting.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)cheese tortellinisaltpepperolive oilgarlic (minced)chicken brothheavy creamParmesan cheesesun-dried tomatoes (chopped)Italian seasoningcrushed red pepper flakes (optional)fresh basil (for garnish)
directions
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds.
Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Add Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened.
Meanwhile, cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Slice the cooked chicken and return to the skillet.
Add the cooked tortellini to the sauce and stir gently to coat everything evenly.
Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes
Variations
Use spinach or mushroom tortellini for a flavor twist.
Add fresh baby spinach to the sauce for extra greens.
Swap chicken for shrimp or Italian sausage for a different protein.
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Top with mozzarella and broil briefly for a baked finish.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.Not recommended for freezing, as the cream sauce may separate.
FAQs
What is Marry Me Chicken?
It’s a creamy, flavorful chicken dish with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs, said to be so delicious it could inspire a marriage proposal.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, just cook it according to the package instructions before adding to the sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the components ahead and combine before serving. Add extra broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Is this dish spicy?
It’s mild unless you add crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust to taste.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works well—just slice and warm it in the sauce.
What cheese is in the tortellini?
Typically ricotta, Parmesan, and sometimes mozzarella or Romano.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely—spinach, mushrooms, or peas are great additions.
What can I serve with it?
A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s creamy and cheesy with mild flavors.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Let it simmer uncovered or add a bit more Parmesan cheese.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a creamy, dreamy dish that turns a romantic classic into a pasta lover’s delight. Whether you’re making it to impress someone or just treating yourself, this flavorful meal is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for a weeknight and special enough for an occasion.
Print
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a creamy, flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich garlic parmesan cream sauce that’s irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cheese tortellini
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season chicken strips with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Add to the skillet and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any brown bits from the skillet.
- Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add red pepper flakes if using. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Add cooked tortellini and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat through.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
- For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Adjust red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.