Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and cheesy tortellini in a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe stands out not only for its incredible flavor but also for its ease of preparation, making it perfect for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to special gatherings. The creamy texture and savory ingredients make it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and garlic adds depth to the creamy sauce.
• Versatile Meal: Great for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish can please various palates.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required as everything cooks in one skillet!
• Nutritious Choice: Packed with protein from chicken and enriched with spinach, it’s a wholesome meal option.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini masterpiece, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. This will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows even cooking and prevents overcrowding of ingredients.
• Mixing spoon: Ensures all ingredients are well combined for an evenly flavored sauce.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements lead to consistent results every time.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for preparing your chicken and vegetables safely and efficiently.

Ingredients

To prepare the delicious Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, gather the following ingredients:

For the Tortellini Dish

• 1 (19 oz) bag frozen cheese tortellini
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil (drained and sliced thin)
• 3 teaspoons garlic (minced)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup parmesan cheese (finely shredded)

For the Greens

• 2 cups baby spinach (chopped)

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet:
1. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
2. Remove cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Reduce heat to medium-low in the same skillet:
1. Melt butter.
2. Sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and paprika.
4. Whisk continuously until the sauce starts to bubble.
5. Slowly whisk in parmesan cheese until completely melted.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with chopped spinach and tortellini:
1. Stir occasionally until the spinach starts to wilt.
2. Let simmer for about 5 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Garnish your dish with fresh parsley and additional parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Marry Me Chicken Tortellini!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a delicious and comforting dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette adds freshness to balance the creamy tortellini.

Add Garlic Bread

• Toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce. It’s an easy and satisfying addition to your meal.

Serve with Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus complement the flavors of the dish while adding a healthy touch.

Include a Cheese Platter

• A selection of cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or blue cheese can provide a delightful contrast to the tortellini’s creaminess.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with fresh basil or parsley not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of flavor.

Offer Extra Parmesan

• Serve extra grated parmesan cheese on the side for those who love an additional cheesy kick!

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

To ensure your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini turns out perfectly every time, consider these simple tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality chicken broth make a significant difference in flavor.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Cook it just until golden brown for a juicy texture; it continues cooking slightly after being removed from heat.
• Whisk continuously: When adding cheese to your sauce, whisk continuously to prevent clumping and achieve a smooth consistency.
• Adjust seasonings: Taste as you go; feel free to adjust spices according to your preference for more flavor.
• Simmer gently: Allowing the dish to simmer gently helps all flavors meld together beautifully without overcooking the spinach.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving helps thicken the sauce slightly.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Chicken Tortellini can enhance your meal and create a well-rounded dining experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Caprese Salad
   A simple combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and drizzled olive oil brings brightness to your plate.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with garlic and lemon make for a flavorful and healthy side.

3. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan creates a classic pairing that complements the richness of the main dish.

4. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli retains its vibrant color and nutrients while adding a fresh element to your meal.

5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort food vibes that pair well with creamy sauces.

6. Zucchini Noodles
   For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil make an excellent alternative while keeping things light.

7. Antipasto Platter
   An assortment of olives, roasted red peppers, artichokes, and marinated vegetables provides variety and interest alongside Marry Me Chicken Tortellini.

8. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn on the cob brushed with butter is an easy yet delightful addition that many enjoy during family meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Overcooking the chicken: This can lead to dry and tough pieces. Cook until just golden brown and set aside, ensuring it remains juicy.
• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can result in bland flavors. Use black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika generously for enhanced taste.
• Not draining sun-dried tomatoes: Using them straight from the jar can make your sauce oily. Always drain and slice them thinly for better texture and flavor integration.
• Using high heat for the sauce: Cooking on high can cause the cream to curdle. Maintain medium-low heat while whisking continuously for a smooth sauce.
• Ignoring spinach wilting: Not allowing spinach to wilt properly means missing out on its flavor. Stir it in until it’s just wilted for optimal taste and color.
• Rushing the simmering process: Simmering too briefly may lead to an underdeveloped sauce. Allow a full 5 minutes for flavors to meld beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Will last up to 3-4 days when stored properly.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
• Label with date for easy identification later.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, heating for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer servings into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, here are some common questions answered:

How do I make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini spicy?

You can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the garlic for an extra kick.

Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh tortellini will cook faster; adjust cooking time accordingly, usually around 3-5 minutes.

What should I serve with Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?

A light salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this creamy dish, enhancing your meal experience.

How do I store leftovers of Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I customize the vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different proteins or vegetables based on your preference. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions—give it a try!