If you’re searching for a dish that’s bound to win hearts, this is it!
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini combines tender chicken, rich creamy sauce, and cheesy tortellini to create a dish that’s simply unforgettable.
According to food lovers, this meal has a reputation for inspiring wedding proposals – and it’s easy to see why!
Whether you’re making dinner for two or preparing a meal for family and friends, this recipe is a sure way to impress.
Let’s dive into the steps for crafting this sensational meal!
What is Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?
Marry Me Chicken is a popular dish known for its rich flavors and comforting ingredients. The name suggests it might just charm someone into popping the question!
Traditionally, it features sautéed chicken breasts in a creamy sauce, but we’re giving it a delightful twist by incorporating cheesy tortellini. This makes it a perfect option for romantic dinners or special gatherings when you want to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped, preferably in oil)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
For the Tortellini:
- 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
Optional Sides:
- Garlic bread or fresh salad for serving
Recommended Substitutions:
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Substitute half-and-half for a lighter version of the cream sauce.
- For a vegetarian twist, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken.
- Sear the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Allow to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 3: Cook the Tortellini
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the tortellini according to package instructions in a separate pot. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Slice the rested chicken and add it to the creamy sauce along with the cooked tortellini. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Tips for Serving and Pairing
- Ideal Sides: Serve with garlic bread for a comforting touch or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.
- Wine Pairing: A chilled Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the creamy flavors of this dish.
- Presentation: For a restaurant-quality finish, drizzle a bit of extra cream sauce over the plated dish and sprinkle with additional Parmesan and basil.
Storage and Reheating
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain creaminess. You can also use the microwave, but be sure to cover it to prevent drying out.
- Freezing Tips: If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to freeze the creamy sauce and tortellini separately, as the sauce may change texture upon thawing.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is the perfect recipe when you want to create a meal that’s as impressive as it is comforting.
The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy tortellini make it a dish that’s hard to resist!
Whether you’re serving it up for date night or a family dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Ready to make this magical recipe?
Let’s get cooking!
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream for a lighter version.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep! Just store the sauce and tortellini separately to maintain freshness.
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped, preferably in oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for a bit of heat
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
For the Tortellini:
- 12 oz cheese tortellini fresh or frozen
Optional Sides:
- Garlic bread or fresh salad for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken. Sear the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Sauce
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Incorporate Ingredients: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Allow to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 3: Cook the Tortellini
- Cook Tortellini: While the sauce is simmering, cook the tortellini according to package instructions in a separate pot. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Combine: Slice the rested chicken and add it to the creamy sauce along with the cooked tortellini. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh basil before serving.