Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a creamy, comforting meal that brings together tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a luscious tomato cream sauce. The sauce is just the right balance of rich and tangy, with a touch of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes adding extra flavor. This dish feels fancy, but it’s actually pretty simple to make, which is always a win in my book.
I love making this when I want to impress friends or just treat myself to something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The name always makes people smile, and I have to admit, every time I make it, I feel like it’s a little food love story happening on my plate. One tip I swear by is adding a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top—it brightens the whole dish and makes it feel extra fresh.
My favorite way to enjoy Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is right out of the skillet, with some crusty bread on the side to soak up every bit of that creamy sauce. It’s the kind of meal that sticks with you, perfect for cozy nights when you want something hearty and satisfying without the fuss. If you’ve never tried it, give it a go—you might just find your new favorite dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using bite-sized boneless, skinless breast pieces ensures quick, even cooking. You can swap chicken thighs if you prefer juicier meat—they stay tender and add a rich flavor.
Cheese Tortellini: The tortellini carries the creamy sauce beautifully. If fresh isn’t available, frozen works too. For a lighter option, try whole wheat or spinach pasta varieties.
Sun-dried Tomatoes: These add a tangy punch. If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers make a nice substitute and still give a sweet depth.
Heavy Cream & Parmesan: These create the rich sauce. If you need a lighter version, use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese. Freshly grated Parmesan has the best flavor, but pre-grated works in a pinch.
How Do You Make a Creamy, Thick Sauce Without It Breaking?
To keep your sauce smooth and luscious:
- Use medium heat when adding cream and cheese to avoid curdling.
- Gradually stir the cheese in, allowing it to melt slowly into the sauce.
- Don’t boil the sauce hard; a gentle simmer thickens it well.
- If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it.
- Adding the cheese last helps it melt evenly, giving that creamy texture we want.
Following these steps helps the sauce cling perfectly to the chicken and tortellini, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking chicken and making the sauce all in one pan.
- Medium pot – to boil the tortellini until tender without crowding.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – to stir sauce gently without scratching your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the cream, broth, and seasonings just right.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping chicken, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes easily and safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp for a quicker cook and a slightly sweet seafood twist.
- Add spinach or kale for a boost of green and extra nutrients that blend into the creamy sauce.
- Use goat cheese in place of Parmesan for a tangy, creamy flavor that changes the sauce’s profile.
- Mix in mushrooms for earthy flavor and extra texture that complements the rich sauce beautifully.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making it a great choice for a delicious weeknight dinner ready in about 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set it aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
4. Add Liquids and Finish the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for about 2 minutes so it reduces slightly. Then add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together and cook until the sauce thickens a bit, around 3-5 minutes.
5. Combine and Serve:
Put the cooked chicken and tortellini back into the skillet. Stir gently to coat everything with the delicious sauce. Let it heat through for 2-3 minutes. Taste and add salt or pepper if needed. Finally, sprinkle with fresh chopped basil or parsley before serving.
This creamy and comforting dish is perfect with some crusty bread or a fresh salad on the side. Enjoy your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the quick thaw method by sealing it in a bag and submerging in cold water. Pat dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Substitute Fresh Tortellini with Frozen or Dried?
Absolutely! Both frozen and dried tortellini work well. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times, which may be slightly longer than fresh. Drain well before adding to the sauce.
How Can I Make This Dish Lighter?
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt (added at the end) to reduce fat. You can also use chicken thighs for extra juiciness, and load up with veggies like spinach or mushrooms for more nutrients.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the creamy sauce smooth.
