Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that combines comfort, elegance, and irresistible flavors, look no further than this “Marry Me Chicken Tortellini” recipe. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this dish features tender chicken, rich cheese tortellini, and a creamy sauce that is sure to impress. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and parmesan adds layers of flavor that make this meal truly unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for someone special or treating yourself to a gourmet dinner, this recipe is a winner.

Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

To create this delicious dish, you will need the following ingredients:

Tortellini:

• 1 (19 oz) bag of frozen cheese tortellini

Chicken:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika

Marry Me Sauce:

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

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Preparing the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. This will infuse the chicken with a delightful flavor profile. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook them for about 6-8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for later.

2. Making the Marry Me Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low and add the butter to the skillet. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and paprika. Whisk the ingredients continuously until the sauce begins to bubble gently.

3. Combining Chicken, Tortellini, and Sauce

Slowly whisk in the parmesan cheese until it melts completely, creating a rich and creamy sauce. Next, return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the chopped baby spinach and frozen cheese tortellini. Stir the mixture occasionally, allowing the spinach to wilt and the tortellini to cook through, which should take about 5 minutes. Let the dish simmer until all the flavors meld together.

4. Final Touches

Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese. This adds a beautiful pop of color and enhances the flavor of the dish. Enjoy your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini while it’s hot!

Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

How to Properly Season the Chicken

Make sure to coat the chicken pieces evenly with the seasoning blend to ensure every bite is flavorful. Allowing the chicken to sit for a few minutes after seasoning can help the flavors penetrate deeper.

Secrets for a Creamy Sauce Every Time

To achieve a velvety smooth sauce, whisk the ingredients constantly when adding the cream and cheese. Avoid boiling the sauce, as it may cause the cream to separate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken

Overcooking can make the chicken dry and tough. Cook the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to keep it juicy and tender.

Not Melting the Parmesan Cheese Properly

Adding parmesan cheese slowly and whisking continuously is crucial to ensure it melts smoothly without clumping.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Whisk
• Tongs or spatula
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Serving and Presentation Ideas

To elevate the presentation, serve the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini in a shallow white dish or bowl. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Adding a side of crusty bread and a simple green salad can complete the meal beautifully.

Variations and Recipe Swaps

• Swap Chicken for Shrimp: For a seafood twist, substitute chicken with shrimp. Season and cook the shrimp just until pink and opaque.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
• Different Tortellini Fillings: Feel free to use different tortellini fillings, such as spinach and ricotta or mushroom, to change the flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the desired portion in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce from drying out. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating.

FAQs About Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

• Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?
  Yes, fresh tortellini can be used. Simply adjust the cooking time as it may cook faster than frozen tortellini.
• Can I make this dish ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. When ready to serve, combine with the tortellini and simmer until heated through.
• What can I use instead of heavy cream?
  Half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream can be used, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.

Pairings and Complementary Dishes

Pair this Marry Me Chicken Tortellini with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. A side of garlic bread also makes an excellent accompaniment.

Conclusion

This Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe is the perfect combination of comfort and sophistication, making it an ideal choice for a romantic dinner or a special meal at home. The rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheese-filled tortellini are sure to delight anyone who takes a bite. If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family and subscribe to our blog for more delicious and easy-to-follow recipes!

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