Marry Me Chicken Tortellini: A Creamy, Dreamy Pasta Dish to Impress!

Are you looking for a recipe that’s guaranteed to wow your taste buds (and maybe even a special someone)? Look no further than Marry Me Chicken Tortellini! This dish takes the already irresistible flavors of Marry Me Chicken – a creamy, sun-dried tomato and Parmesan-infused sensation – and elevates it by incorporating cheese-filled tortellini for an even more satisfying and decadent meal. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for a romantic dinner, a cozy night in, or any occasion that calls for a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

This recipe provides detailed, easy-to-follow instructions, ensuring that even novice cooks can create a restaurant-quality dish in their own kitchen. We’ll break down each step, from prepping the chicken to simmering the creamy sauce and perfectly cooking the tortellini. Get ready to fall in love with every bite!

## What is Marry Me Chicken?

Before we dive into the tortellini version, let’s understand the magic behind the original Marry Me Chicken. It’s a chicken breast dish simmered in a creamy sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. The result is incredibly flavorful, rich, and comforting. The name supposedly comes from the fact that anyone who tastes it is immediately smitten and ready to propose marriage to the cook!

## Why Add Tortellini?

Adding cheese tortellini takes this already amazing dish to the next level. The pasta adds a delightful textural element and complements the creamy sauce perfectly. The cheese filling melts slightly into the sauce, enriching it even further. It transforms Marry Me Chicken from a simple chicken dish into a complete and satisfying meal.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a comprehensive list of the ingredients you’ll need to create your own Marry Me Chicken Tortellini masterpiece. Don’t be intimidated by the list; most of these are pantry staples, and the fresh ingredients are well worth the effort!

* **Chicken Breasts:** 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds total). Look for chicken breasts that are relatively uniform in thickness for even cooking.
* **Cheese Tortellini:** 20 ounces of fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini. You can use other fillings like spinach and ricotta or mushroom, but cheese is the classic choice for this recipe. Dried tortellini can be used in a pinch but may require longer cooking time. Aim for a good quality tortellini for the best flavor and texture.
* **Sun-Dried Tomatoes:** 1/2 cup, oil-packed, drained and chopped. Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes have the best flavor and are more pliable than dried ones. Be sure to drain them well before chopping to avoid an overly oily sauce.
* **Garlic:** 4 cloves, minced. Freshly minced garlic is essential for the authentic flavor of Marry Me Chicken. You can use a garlic press or mince the garlic finely with a knife.
* **Yellow Onion:** 1/2 medium, finely diced. Diced onion adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce. Yellow onion is preferred, but white onion or even shallots can be substituted.
* **Chicken Broth:** 1 cup, low-sodium. Low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness of the final dish. You can use homemade or store-bought broth.
* **Heavy Cream:** 1 cup. Heavy cream is what makes the sauce so rich and decadent. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce won’t be as thick.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** 1/2 cup, grated, plus more for serving. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is best for flavor and melting. Avoid using pre-shredded Parmesan, as it often contains cellulose and doesn’t melt as well.
* **Italian Seasoning:** 2 teaspoons. Italian seasoning is a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme. You can find it at most grocery stores. If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can create your own blend using these herbs.
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for heat). Red pepper flakes add a touch of spice to the dish. Adjust the amount to your preference, or omit it altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons. Olive oil is used for searing the chicken and sautéing the onion and garlic. Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its flavor.
* **Salt and Black Pepper:** To taste. Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the flavors of the dish. Taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process.
* **Fresh Basil:** Chopped, for garnish (optional). Fresh basil adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Large Skillet or Dutch Oven:** A large skillet with high sides or a Dutch oven is ideal for this recipe. It provides enough space for searing the chicken and simmering the sauce.
* **Cutting Board:** For chopping vegetables and preparing the chicken.
* **Knife:** A sharp knife for chopping and slicing.
* **Garlic Press (optional):** For mincing garlic easily.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurately measuring ingredients.
* **Tongs:** For flipping the chicken and tossing the tortellini.
* **Grater:** For grating Parmesan cheese.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these detailed steps to create your own Marry Me Chicken Tortellini.

**Step 1: Prepare the Chicken**

1. **Pound the Chicken:** Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a resealable bag. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and quickly.
2. **Season the Chicken:** Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Make sure the chicken is well coated for maximum flavor.

**Step 2: Sear the Chicken**

1. **Heat the Olive Oil:** Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. The oil should be shimmering but not smoking.
2. **Sear the Chicken:** Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. **Remove and Set Aside:** Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm.

**Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics**

1. **Add Onion and Garlic:** Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the diced onion and cook over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. **Add Garlic:** Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

**Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce**

1. **Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:** Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing their flavors to bloom.
2. **Deglaze with Chicken Broth:** Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds flavor to the sauce.
3. **Add Heavy Cream:** Pour in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
4. **Add Parmesan Cheese and Seasoning:** Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Add the red pepper flakes, if using. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

**Step 5: Cook the Tortellini**

1. **Cook According to Package Directions:** While the sauce is simmering, cook the cheese tortellini according to the package directions. Be careful not to overcook the tortellini, as they will become mushy.
2. **Drain the Tortellini:** Once the tortellini are cooked, drain them well and set them aside.

**Step 6: Combine and Serve**

1. **Slice the Chicken:** Slice the cooked chicken breasts into 1/2-inch thick slices.
2. **Add Tortellini and Chicken to Sauce:** Gently stir the cooked tortellini and sliced chicken into the creamy sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly.
3. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini immediately. Garnish with fresh chopped basil and extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

## Tips for Success

* **Don’t Overcook the Chicken:** Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of the dish. Use fresh garlic, good quality sun-dried tomatoes, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best results.
* **Don’t Burn the Garlic:** Burnt garlic can ruin the flavor of the entire dish. Cook it over low heat and watch it carefully.
* **Adjust the Seasoning:** Taste the sauce throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasoning as needed. Salt and pepper are crucial for bringing out the flavors of the dish.
* **Control the Heat:** The red pepper flakes add a touch of spice to the dish. Adjust the amount to your preference, or omit it altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.
* **Use Fresh Herbs:** Fresh basil adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** When searing the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the pan and prevent the chicken from browning properly. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Vegetarian Version:** Substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or pan-fried tofu for a vegetarian version.
* **Spicy Version:** Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier dish.
* **Lighter Version:** Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce. You can also use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a more flavorful but potentially higher-fat option.
* **Add Vegetables:** Add other vegetables to the sauce, such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
* **Different Pasta:** If you don’t have tortellini, you can use other types of pasta, such as penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Different Cheese:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Asiago or Pecorino Romano.
* **Lemon Juice:** Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce for a brighter flavor.

## Serving Suggestions

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a complete meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

* **Side Salad:** Serve with a simple side salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.
* **Garlic Bread:** Garlic bread is a classic accompaniment to pasta dishes.
* **Steamed Vegetables:** Serve with steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
* **Crusty Bread:** Serve with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
* **Wine Pairing:** Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

## Storage and Reheating Instructions

* **Storage:** Store leftover Marry Me Chicken Tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the sauce from drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it.

## Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe Card

**Yields:** 4-6 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 30 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds total)
* 20 ounces of fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini
* 1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely diced
* 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
* 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and black pepper to taste
* Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Add the red pepper flakes, if using. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. While the sauce is simmering, cook the cheese tortellini according to the package directions. Drain well.
7. Slice the cooked chicken breasts into 1/2-inch thick slices.
8. Gently stir the cooked tortellini and sliced chicken into the creamy sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly.
9. Serve immediately. Garnish with fresh chopped basil and extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

## Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a truly special dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy, flavorful sauce and cheesy tortellini, it’s sure to impress your family, friends, or that special someone. So, give this recipe a try and get ready to fall in love with every bite! Who knows, you might even get a proposal out of it!
Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!