How to Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini : A Must-Try

Discover how to make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, a creamy, savory pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Learn how to prepare this easy, flavorful recipe with chicken, tortellini, and a rich cream sauce.

If you prefer a slow-cooked version of Marry Me Chicken, this Crockpot recipe is perfect. Marry Me Chicken Crockpot.

Introduction to Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that promises to elevate any dinner table. With its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and soft tortellini, this dish has gained widespread popularity for its indulgent flavors and its ability to create unforgettable moments. Whether you’re preparing it for a romantic evening or simply want to enjoy a comforting yet sophisticated meal, Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is sure to deliver.

Essential Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Creating the perfect Marry Me Chicken Tortellini starts with the right ingredients. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and delicious tortellini makes this dish unforgettable. Below are the essential ingredients along with measurements to ensure your recipe turns out perfectly.

1. Chicken Breasts or Thighs
   Quantity: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound) or 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
   Purpose: The chicken serves as the protein and provides a savory base for the dish. Chicken breasts are leaner, while thighs offer a richer flavor.
2. Tortellini
   Quantity: 12 oz of fresh or frozen cheese-filled tortellini
   Purpose: Tortellini adds a comforting, chewy texture to the dish. You can use other types of tortellini, such as spinach or chicken, depending on your preferences.
3. Heavy Cream
   Quantity: 1 cup
   Purpose: Heavy cream creates the velvety texture of the sauce, making it rich and smooth. It helps bind the flavors together and adds depth to the overall taste.
4. Chicken Broth
   Quantity: 1/2 cup
   Purpose: Chicken broth adds a savory base to the sauce, balancing out the richness of the cream and infusing the dish with a more pronounced chicken flavor.
5. Sun-Dried Tomatoes
   Quantity: 1/4 cup (chopped)
6. Garlic
   Quantity: 3 cloves (minced)
7. Olive Oil
   Quantity: 2 tablespoons
8. Parmesan Cheese
   Quantity: 1/2 cup (freshly grated)
   Purpose: Parmesan cheese adds saltiness and umami, rounding out the creamy sauce and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
9. Fresh Basil or Parsley
   Quantity: 2 tablespoons (chopped)
   Purpose: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley are used as a garnish to add a pop of color and a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
10. Salt and Pepper
    Quantity: To taste
    Purpose: Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the chicken, sauce, and pasta, ensuring the dish is well-balanced and flavorful.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Making Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a relatively simple process, but the key is to balance the flavors perfectly. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a creamy, savory dish that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices you like. You can add garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for about 6–7 minutes on each side (depending on the thickness), until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. You can check doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken—if it’s no longer pink and the juices run clear, it’s ready.
3. Rest and Slice: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

2: Cook the Tortellini

1. Boil the Tortellini: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz of tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 3–5 minutes for fresh tortellini. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set it aside.
2. Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, reserve a small cup of pasta water. This starchy water can be used later to help adjust the sauce consistency.

3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet that you used for the chicken, lower the heat to medium. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes. The tomatoes will infuse the oil and garlic with a rich, tangy flavor.
3. Create the Sauce: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of chicken broth. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits left from the chicken. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5–7 minutes, until it thickens slightly. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Add Parmesan: Stir in 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt into the sauce, making it creamy and rich. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 4: Combine the Chicken, Tortellini, and Sauce

1. Add the Chicken: Add the sliced chicken back into the skillet with the sauce and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir to combine, allowing the chicken to absorb some of the sauce.
2. Mix in the Tortellini: Gently add the cooked tortellini into the skillet. Stir everything together so that the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce. If needed, add more pasta water to help the sauce coat the tortellini evenly.
3. Simmer Together: Let the chicken, tortellini, and sauce simmer together for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the dish for a pop of color and a fresh, herbal flavor.
2. Serve: Serve the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini hot, with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a light salad.

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Variations

While the classic Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe is already delicious and comforting, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your personal taste or dietary preferences. Below are some creative variations you can try to make this dish even more versatile.

If you love pasta dishes, try this recipe for a classic Italian Ditalini Pasta. Italian Ditalini Pasta .

1. Vegetarian Marry Me Tortellini

For a vegetarian version of this dish, you can easily swap out the chicken for plant-based proteins or vegetables.

• Tofu or Tempeh: Cube and pan-fry firm tofu or tempeh until golden brown and crispy. This will add a nice texture and absorb the flavors of the creamy sauce.
• Mushrooms: Use mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or portobello for a meaty texture. Sauté them until soft and tender, then add them to the sauce in place of the chicken.
• Additional Veggies: Add a variety of vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for more color, flavor, and nutrients.

2. Marry Me Chicken with Spinach and Artichokes

Spinach and artichokes are a classic combination that works beautifully in this dish.

• Spinach: Add a handful of fresh spinach to the sauce just before serving. It will wilt nicely and add a vibrant, earthy flavor.
• Artichokes: For a tangy twist, mix in marinated artichoke hearts, either whole or chopped, along with the sun-dried tomatoes. Their briny flavor enhances the creamy sauce and complements the richness of the chicken.

3. Spicy Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

If you love a bit of heat in your meals, you can spice things up by adding a few key ingredients:

• Red Pepper Flakes: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder into the sauce to give it some heat without overpowering the dish.
• Jalapeños: For a more intense spice, finely chop fresh jalapeños and sauté them with the garlic. This will infuse the sauce with a bold, spicy kick.
• Chipotle in Adobo: For a smoky heat, add a teaspoon of chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the creamy mixture.

4. Low-Carb Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

If you’re looking to reduce your carb intake, you can easily transform this dish into a low-carb option:

• Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Swap out the tortellini for zucchini noodles to create a fresh and light version of this dish. You can sauté them lightly or serve them raw for a crunchy texture.
• Shirataki Noodles: Another great alternative is shirataki noodles, which are low in calories and carbs. They have a similar texture to pasta and work well with creamy sauces.
• Cauliflower Tortellini: If you still crave tortellini, look for cauliflower-based tortellini options that are lower in carbs but still deliver a satisfying taste and texture.

5. Marry Me Chicken Tortellini with Bacon

For a smoky, savory twist, you can add crispy bacon to your dish:

• Bacon: Cook 4–5 slices of bacon until crispy, crumble them up, and stir them into the dish just before serving. The bacon adds a delicious crunch and a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
• Smoked Gouda: Instead of Parmesan, try adding smoked Gouda cheese to the sauce for an extra layer of richness and depth.

6. Marry Me Chicken with Pesto

For a herby, aromatic twist, you can introduce pesto into the dish:

• Pesto Sauce: Stir a couple of tablespoons of basil pesto into the creamy sauce. It will brighten up the flavor profile and give the dish a fresh, herbal aroma.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto: For a tangy variation, you can swap regular pesto for sun-dried tomato pesto. This will complement the sun-dried tomatoes in the original recipe while adding a unique flavor.

7. Dairy-Free Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

To make this dish dairy-free, you can easily substitute the cream, cheese, and butter with plant-based alternatives:

• Coconut Milk: Replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk. This will give the sauce a creamy consistency with a subtle coconut flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
• Nutritional Yeast: Instead of Parmesan, you can sprinkle nutritional yeast over the dish for a cheesy, umami flavor that’s dairy-free.
• Dairy-Free Tortellini: Look for dairy-free tortellini options made with plant-based cheeses and fillings.

8. Marry Me Chicken Tortellini with Lemon

For a refreshing burst of flavor, try adding some citrus to brighten up the dish:

• Lemon Zest: Grate the zest of 1 lemon and stir it into the sauce. This will give the dish a fresh, zesty note that complements the richness of the cream.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice added just before serving will balance the creaminess with a touch of acidity, elevating the overall flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a rich, flavorful dish that can be paired with a variety of sides and accompaniments to create a well-rounded meal. Whether you’re serving it for a romantic dinner or a family gathering, the following serving suggestions will complement the dish and elevate the overall dining experience.

1. Garlic Bread

A classic side dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser, garlic bread is the perfect pairing for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini. The crispy, buttery, and garlicky bread is ideal for soaking up the creamy sauce, making every bite even more indulgent. You can make it yourself by spreading a mixture of butter, garlic, and herbs on slices of baguette or buy pre-made garlic bread for a quick option.

2. Fresh Salad

A fresh, light salad can provide a crisp contrast to the richness of the tortellini dish. Here are a few ideas:

• Caesar Salad: The creamy, tangy dressing pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce of the tortellini, while the crunchy croutons and parmesan add a nice texture.
• Arugula Salad: For a peppery kick, toss arugula with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This simple salad offers a bright contrast to the heaviness of the pasta.
• Caprese Salad: A refreshing combination of fresh tomatoes, basil, mozzarella, and balsamic glaze works wonderfully as a side, offering sweetness and acidity to balance the creaminess of the dish.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables add a savory, slightly caramelized flavor that pairs well with the creamy and tangy elements of Marry Me Chicken Tortellini. Try roasted:

• Asparagus: Lightly seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper, asparagus has a delicate flavor that complements the richness of the sauce.
• Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts with a hint of balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of sea salt add a crisp texture and an earthy flavor that cuts through the creaminess of the dish.
• Carrots or Sweet Potatoes: Roasted carrots or sweet potatoes bring a subtle sweetness and extra nutrients to the meal.

4. Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans

For a healthy and colorful side, consider serving steamed broccoli or green beans. These vegetables are easy to prepare and their mild flavors help balance out the richness of the tortellini. Lightly season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.

5. White Wine Pairing

A glass of white wine can elevate the entire dining experience when paired with Marry Me Chicken Tortellini. Here are a few wine options to complement the creamy dish:

• Chardonnay: A medium-bodied Chardonnay, with its creamy texture and subtle oakiness, pairs beautifully with the richness of the creamy sauce.
• Pinot Grigio: If you prefer a lighter wine, Pinot Grigio’s crisp acidity will cut through the richness of the sauce and refresh your palate.
• Sauvignon Blanc: A dry Sauvignon Blanc with its citrusy and herbal notes is a great choice to balance the creaminess and add a bit of zest to the meal.

6. A Side of Fruit

If you’re looking for a sweet contrast to the savory dish, a side of fresh fruit can provide just the right balance. Some great options include:

• Citrus Fruits: Sliced oranges, grapefruit, or a citrus salad will provide a refreshing acidity that cuts through the richness of the pasta.
• Berries: A simple bowl of mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) offers a light, sweet contrast to the savory meal.
• Apple Slices with Cheese: A combination of crisp apple slices and a mild cheese like brie or goat cheese can provide a pleasant balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors.

7. A Crisp, Chilled Aperitif

Before you dive into the main course, a light aperitif can set the tone for the meal. Try serving:

• Aperol Spritz: A refreshing and slightly bitter drink made with Aperol, Prosecco, and a splash of soda water, perfect for whetting the appetite.
• Lemon Prosecco Cocktail: A light cocktail with Prosecco and fresh lemon juice offers a zesty start to the meal, enhancing the citrus flavors in the dish.

8. Grated Parmesan or Fresh Herbs for Garnish

When serving Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or freshly chopped basil or parsley can add an extra layer of flavor. The richness of the cheese complements the creamy sauce, while the herbs provide a burst of freshness and color.

FAQs about Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

If you’re new to making Marry Me Chicken Tortellini or are looking for some extra tips to perfect your dish, here are some frequently asked questions that might help.

1. Can I use different types of pasta instead of tortellini?

Yes, you can use other types of pasta if tortellini isn’t available or if you prefer a different shape. Some good alternatives include penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you use.

2. Can I make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance. You can cook the chicken, tortellini, and sauce separately, then combine them and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to restore the creamy consistency.

3. Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Marry Me Chicken Tortellini for later. To freeze, store the assembled dish in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat it gently on the stovetop. Keep in mind that the cream sauce may slightly change in texture after freezing, but it will still taste delicious.

4. Can I make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini without cream?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can use alternatives like half-and-half, milk, or a dairy-free substitute like coconut milk. Keep in mind that the sauce will be less rich and creamy, but it can still be flavorful with the right seasoning.

5. How can I make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini spicier?

To add heat to the dish, try incorporating red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or even a spoonful of spicy marinara sauce. You can also swap the sun-dried tomatoes for spicy sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the cream sauce.

6. What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini pairs well with a variety of sides such as garlic bread, a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans. A glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, complements the dish beautifully.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. With its rich creamy sauce, tender chicken, and soft tortellini, it’s perfect for a weeknight meal, a special occasion, or a cozy dinner for two. The best part is that it’s incredibly versatile, allowing for endless variations based on your preferences and dietary needs. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or experiment with different flavors and ingredients, Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a dish that’s bound to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and enjoy this delicious, hearty meal!

Print