Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a creamy, comforting pasta dish that brings together tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a rich, flavorful sauce with just the right touch of spice. It’s a wonderful meal that feels a bit fancy but is actually simple to make, and it always leaves everyone asking for seconds. The blend of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan gives it a delicious depth that’s hard to resist.
I love making this dish when I want something that’s both quick and impressive, especially on a weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner. It’s one of those recipes that feels special without any fuss, and I always find myself sneaking a taste straight from the pan while it simmers. Plus, it’s a great way to warm up on a chilly evening!
My favorite way to serve it is with a sprinkle of fresh basil and a side of crusty bread to soak up all that yummy sauce. It’s a meal that brings people to the table with a smile, and honestly, it’s the kind of dish that might just inspire you to say “I do” to it all over again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work great. Thighs stay juicier if you prefer more moist, tender bites. If you want a vegetarian option, you can swap chicken for mushrooms or tofu.
Cheese Tortellini: Fresh or frozen cheese tortellini adds creamy, cheesy pockets. If you can’t find tortellini, cheese ravioli or even stuffed shells can be good substitutes.
Heavy Cream: This creates the rich, velvety sauce. For a lighter version, try half-and-half or coconut cream but keep in mind the texture might be less thick.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a sweet, tangy punch. If unavailable, roasted red peppers or fresh cherry tomatoes work fine for color and flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth. Pecorino Romano or Asiago are tasty alternatives that melt well into the sauce.
Fresh Spinach: Adds freshness and color. You can use baby kale or arugula if spinach is out, but add them just before serving so they don’t overcook.
How Do You Get the Sauce Creamy and Flavorful Without It Splitting?
Making a smooth sauce is key here, and the main tip is to avoid boiling the cream. Here’s how:
- After cooking garlic, slowly add chicken broth and cream together, stirring as you pour.
- Keep the heat at medium or medium-low; let the sauce gently simmer but not boil.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese gradually until melted to thicken the sauce.
- If sauce looks too thick, add a splash of broth or reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Also, add the spinach at the end and stir gently so it wilts but stays vibrant. This technique helps the sauce coat the tortellini beautifully without curdling or splitting.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I prefer one with high sides so the sauce can simmer without spilling.
- Pot for boiling pasta – a big one to cook tortellini evenly and quickly.
- Slotted spoon – helps to remove cooked chicken and tortellini without excess water.
- Whisk or spoon – for stirring the sauce and combining ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – ensure accurate amounts, especially for liquids and seasonings.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for sautéed shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist that cooks quickly.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers to add more texture and flavor.
- Use different cheeses like Asiago, Pecorino, or mozzarella for a new taste profile.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce while simmering for extra depth.
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- 1/2 cup (75 g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 package (about 9-12 oz / 250-340 g) cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes to cook. So in just around 25 minutes, you can have a wonderful creamy chicken tortellini meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned all over and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well and scraping up any brown bits from the pan.
3. Add Flavorings and Cheese:
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes (if using) and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes to develop flavor. Then, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
4. Cook the Tortellini and Combine:
While the sauce simmers, cook the tortellini according to package instructions in boiling salted water (usually 2-4 minutes). Drain the tortellini well and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Add back the cooked chicken and fresh spinach. Stir gently and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Spoon the creamy tortellini and chicken onto plates or into bowls. Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley for a bright, fresh finish. Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Chicken Tortellini!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove extra moisture for better browning.
Can I Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken a day ahead. Store everything separately in airtight containers in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave, adding a little liquid to keep the sauce creamy.
What Can I Serve with Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?
This dish goes wonderfully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Roasted vegetables also make a great, hearty side!
