Marry Me Chicken Tortellini: A Recipe So Good, It’s Proposal-Worthy!

Are you looking for a dish so delicious it could inspire a marriage proposal? Look no further! This Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe takes the internet-famous Marry Me Chicken and combines it with cheesy, comforting tortellini for a meal that’s truly unforgettable. It’s creamy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. Get ready to impress your loved ones (or maybe even get a ring!) with this culinary masterpiece.

## What is Marry Me Chicken?

If you haven’t heard of Marry Me Chicken, you’re in for a treat. It’s a chicken dish bathed in a creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce that’s so delicious, it’s rumored to inspire marriage proposals. The original recipe typically includes chicken breasts, sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian herbs. Its simplicity and incredible flavor profile have made it a viral sensation.

## Why Tortellini?

Tortellini adds a delightful textural element and a cheesy filling that complements the rich, creamy sauce perfectly. The pasta soaks up the flavorful sauce, making each bite an explosion of taste. It also transforms the dish into a more substantial and satisfying meal.

## Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe

This recipe is broken down into easy-to-follow steps, ensuring even novice cooks can create this amazing dish. Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list; it’s all about layering flavors to create a truly unforgettable experience.

**Yields:** 6 servings
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Cook time:** 35 minutes

### Ingredients:

* **For the Chicken:**
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

* **For the Sauce:**
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
* Salt and pepper to taste

* **For the Tortellini:**
* 20 oz package of cheese tortellini (fresh or dried)

* **Garnish:**
* Fresh basil, chopped
* Grated Parmesan cheese

### Equipment:

* Large skillet or Dutch oven
* Large pot
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Knife and cutting board

### Instructions

**Step 1: Prepare the Chicken**

1. In a medium bowl, toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture. This ensures each piece of chicken is flavorful and delicious.

**Step 2: Sear the Chicken**

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a nice sear. Searing the chicken helps to lock in the juices and add flavor.
2. Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the temperature and prevent the chicken from browning properly. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
3. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is cooked through and lightly browned on all sides. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

**Step 3: Make the Sauce**

1. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make the sauce bitter.
2. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes. The sun-dried tomatoes will release their oil and add a rich, intense flavor to the sauce.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze it, lifting any browned bits that have stuck to the pan. These browned bits are full of flavor and will enhance the overall taste of the sauce. Let the broth simmer for a minute or two.
4. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
5. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Remember to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.

**Step 4: Cook the Tortellini**

1. While the sauce is simmering, cook the tortellini according to the package directions. Be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking time, as it may vary depending on whether you are using fresh or dried tortellini.
2. Drain the cooked tortellini and set aside.

**Step 5: Combine and Serve**

1. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to combine, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
2. Gently fold in the cooked tortellini. Be careful not to over-stir, as this can cause the tortellini to break apart.
3. Garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy this marriage-worthy dish!

## Tips and Variations

* **Chicken:** You can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a richer flavor. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly.
* **Vegetables:** Add some spinach or kale to the sauce for extra nutrients and flavor. Sauté the greens with the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes before adding the broth.
* **Mushrooms:** Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy flavor.
* **Spicy:** Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
* **Wine:** Add a splash of dry white wine to the sauce for a more complex flavor. Add the wine after the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, and let it reduce slightly before adding the chicken broth.
* **Cream Cheese:** For an even creamier sauce, stir in a tablespoon or two of cream cheese at the end.
* **Pesto:** Add a spoonful of pesto to the sauce for a vibrant, herby flavor.
* **Make it Lighter:** Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce the fat content.
* **Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

## Serving Suggestions

This Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping into the delicious sauce. Here are a few suggestions:

* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
* **Garlic Bread:** Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts would be a healthy and flavorful side dish.
* **Caesar Salad:** A classic Caesar salad is always a crowd-pleaser.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

You can prepare the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini in advance, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining. Here’s how:

* **Sauce:** The sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat the sauce over medium heat before adding the chicken and tortellini.
* **Chicken:** The chicken can be cooked and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add it to the sauce when reheating.
* **Tortellini:** Cook the tortellini just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.
* **Complete Dish:** You can assemble the entire dish ahead of time, but it’s best to add the tortellini just before serving to prevent it from absorbing too much sauce. If you do assemble the dish ahead of time, add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to loosen the sauce.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerator:** Store leftover Marry Me Chicken Tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat or in the microwave.
* **Freezer:** While it’s not ideal, you can freeze Marry Me Chicken Tortellini. The sauce may separate slightly when thawed, but it will still be delicious. Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

## Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving)

* Calories: 650-750
* Protein: 40-50g
* Fat: 40-50g
* Carbohydrates: 40-50g

*Note: Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

## Conclusion

This Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe is a guaranteed hit. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re trying to impress a date, feed a crowd, or simply enjoy a delicious and comforting meal, this dish is sure to please. So, grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a dish so good, it might just lead to a proposal! Enjoy!