Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe

Are you looking to create a dish so irresistible that it might just lead to a marriage proposal? Look no further! The Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a delectable recipe that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheese-filled tortellini into a dish that’s bound to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds. Read on for a step-by-step guide to creating this mouthwatering dish.

this Recipe

What is Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a luxurious and indulgent dish that combines the best of Italian cuisine with a rich, creamy sauce. The name "Marry Me Chicken" comes from the idea that this dish is so delicious, it could inspire a marriage proposal. The chicken is cooked to perfection, then simmered in a flavorful sauce made with cream, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Toss in some cheese-filled tortellini, and you have a meal that's both comforting and sophisticated.

Ingredients List for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

To create this heavenly dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 package (about 20 oz) cheese tortellini
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Ingredients List for the Sauce

The sauce is the heart of this dish, adding a creamy richness that ties all the flavors together. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Substitutions and Variations

If you’re looking to customize this recipe, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try:

• Protein Swap: Instead of chicken breasts, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Vegetarian Option: To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. You can also use a meatless chicken substitute.
• Pasta Alternatives: If you don’t have tortellini on hand, you can use other pasta varieties like ravioli, penne, or even gnocchi. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Dairy-Free Version: For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan cheese alternative.
• Add Veggies: Feel free to add some vegetables to this dish, such as spinach, kale, or peas, for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of red pepper flakes.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the perfect Marry Me Chicken Tortellini.

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of oregano and basil on both sides.
• Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Make the Sauce

• In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
• Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
• Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.
• Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.

3. Cook the Tortellini

• While the sauce is simmering, cook the tortellini according to the package instructions in a separate pot. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set aside.

4. Combine Everything

• Slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips.
• Add the sliced chicken and cooked tortellini into the skillet with the sauce.
• Stir everything together, ensuring the tortellini and chicken are well coated with the sauce.
• Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

How to Cook Marry Me Chicken Tortellini: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking Marry Me Chicken Tortellini may seem like a fancy task, but it’s actually quite simple. Here's a detailed guide to ensure you get it right:

1. Season and Sear the Chicken: Properly seasoning the chicken is key to developing flavor. Make sure your skillet is hot enough to give the chicken a nice sear, which locks in juices and adds depth to the dish.
2. Garlic and Deglazing: When sautéing garlic, be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can turn bitter. Deglazing the pan with chicken broth after cooking the chicken is important to incorporate all those flavorful browned bits into your sauce.
3. Creating the Creamy Sauce: Simmering the cream with Parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes creates a rich, velvety sauce. Don't rush this step; let it cook down a bit to thicken naturally.
4. Perfectly Cooked Tortellini: While tortellini is boiling, keep an eye on it. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta, which you want to avoid.
5. Combine and Cook Through: Once everything is in the skillet, give it time to meld together. The tortellini will soak up some of the sauce, making each bite incredibly flavorful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the simplest recipes can go awry if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Marry Me Chicken Tortellini:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Dry chicken can ruin the dish. Make sure to cook the chicken breasts just until they are done, then remove them from the skillet to rest.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly and can become bitter. Make sure to sauté it just until it’s fragrant.
• Overcooking the Tortellini: Tortellini should be cooked just until al dente. Overcooked tortellini can become mushy and lose its texture.
• Under-seasoning the Sauce: Taste your sauce as it cooks and adjust the seasoning as needed. You want a balanced flavor that complements the rich creaminess.
• Rushing the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken. Rushing this step can result in a watery sauce that doesn’t cling to the pasta.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can elevate a dish, making it even more enticing. Here’s how you can serve and present your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini for maximum impact:

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

• Family Style: Serve this dish in a large, shallow serving dish, garnished with fresh basil leaves. This approach is perfect for a cozy, family-style meal where everyone can help themselves.
• Individual Plates: For a more refined presentation, plate the tortellini in shallow bowls, placing the chicken strips neatly on top. Drizzle a bit of extra sauce over the chicken and garnish with fresh basil.
• Accompaniments: Pair this dish with a simple green salad and crusty garlic bread to round out the meal. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, would complement the creamy sauce perfectly.

Presentation Ideas for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

• Herb Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top of the dish adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Extra Parmesan: Offer freshly grated Parmesan cheese on the side, so guests can add more to their liking.
• Serve with Style: Use white or light-colored plates to make the rich colors of the dish stand out. A sprig of basil on each plate adds a touch of elegance.

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe Tips

To ensure your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic, fresh basil, and high-quality Parmesan cheese. These ingredients make a significant difference in the flavor of the dish.
• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer until it reaches the desired thickness. This not only improves the texture but also intensifies the flavors.
• Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a little more heat, add extra red pepper flakes. If you love garlic, don’t be shy to add another clove or two.
• Keep an Eye on the Tortellini: Tortellini cooks quickly, so make sure to check it often to avoid overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini ahead of time. Prepare the dish as instructed, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?

While the dish is best served fresh, you can freeze it. Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use store-bought tortellini?

Absolutely! Store-bought tortellini works perfectly for this recipe. Just follow the package instructions for cooking.

How can I make the dish spicier?

If you enjoy a bit of spice, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the sauce. Alternatively, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that this will result in a less creamy sauce. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream can be used as a substitute.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a truly special dish that combines the comfort of a creamy pasta with the elegance of tender chicken and rich, flavorful sauce. Whether you’re making it for a romantic dinner or simply because you’re in the mood for something indulgent, this recipe is sure to impress. With its rich flavors, beautiful presentation, and the ability to customize it to your liking, it’s no wonder this dish has gained popularity as a must-try recipe. So go ahead, follow this guide, and prepare a meal that just might lead to a proposal—or at the very least, a request for seconds!

Print