Marry Me Chicken Tortellini: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish

If you’re a fan of the popular Marry Me Chicken, then you’re in for a real treat with this new spin on the classic recipe. Marry Me Chicken Tortellini combines the rich, creamy flavors of the original dish with the hearty, comforting texture of tortellini. It’s a match made in culinary heaven! This dish is not only perfect for a quick weeknight dinner but also impressive enough to serve at a special occasion. Trust me, after one bite, your family and friends will be asking for this dish again and again.

Whether you’re familiar with Marry Me Chicken or this is your first introduction, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy tortellini create a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s an easy dish that can be on the table in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when you still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal.

So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe and discover how to make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, step by step.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get started, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
• ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably in oil, drained)
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

For the Pasta:

• 19 oz bag of frozen cheese tortellini

For Serving:

• Freshly chopped basil or parsley (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
• Crusty garlic bread
• Mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette

Optional Equipment:

• Better Breader Bowl (optional, but handy for coating the chicken)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by prepping your chicken. Take the two large chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized cubes. It’s important to ensure the pieces are uniform in size so they cook evenly. Once the chicken is cut, set it aside and move on to the coating mixture.

In a medium-sized bowl, combine ½ cup of all-purpose flour with ½ teaspoon each of salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. If you have a Better Breader Bowl, this is the perfect time to use it. This handy tool makes it easy to coat the chicken evenly without making a mess. If you don’t have one, no worries—a regular bowl works just fine. Toss the chicken cubes in the flour mixture until they are well coated. Shake off any excess flour before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. The combination of oil and butter adds a rich flavor to the chicken while helping it brown beautifully. Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F. This step is crucial for ensuring that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.

After the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cover it with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Next, add ⅓ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Sun-dried tomatoes bring a tangy, intense flavor that perfectly complements the creamy sauce. If your sun-dried tomatoes are packed in oil, be sure to drain them before chopping. Stir the tomatoes and garlic together, allowing them to cook for another minute.

Now, it’s time to add the liquids. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. These bits are full of flavor and will add depth to your sauce. After the chicken broth, lower the heat and slowly stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. This will create a rich, velvety base for the sauce. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes, stirring frequently.

Once the cream has fully incorporated, add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. To kick up the flavor, add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, ½ teaspoon of dried oregano, and ½ teaspoon of dried thyme. Adjust the seasoning to taste—if you prefer more spice, feel free to add extra red pepper flakes.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

With the sauce simmering away, it’s time to add the tortellini. Pour the entire 19 oz bag of frozen cheese tortellini directly into the skillet. There’s no need to thaw the tortellini beforehand; they will cook perfectly in the sauce. Stir the tortellini to ensure they are evenly coated with the sauce, then cover the skillet with a lid. Allow the tortellini to cook in the sauce for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once the tortellini is tender, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, stirring until the chicken is fully coated in the sauce. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to ensure all the flavors meld together.

Now, your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is ready to serve! Spoon generous portions onto plates or into bowls, making sure to get plenty of that creamy sauce in each serving. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan on top.

Step 6: Serve with Sides

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a balanced meal, serve it alongside a mixed green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the vinaigrette will cut through the richness of the sauce, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Crusty garlic bread is another great option, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, also make a delicious and nutritious accompaniment.

Step 7: Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which might be rare because it’s that good!), here’s how to store them. Place the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen up the sauce, as it can thicken when chilled.

For longer storage, you can freeze this dish. However, be aware that the texture of the tortellini may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, transfer the cooled dish to a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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Nutritional Information

While Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is undeniably delicious, it’s also good to know what you’re consuming. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content per serving (assuming the recipe serves 4):

• Calories: 750
• Total Fat: 45g
• Saturated Fat: 22g
• Cholesterol: 175mg
• Sodium: 1100mg
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 35g

Please note that these values can vary based on specific brands and ingredients used.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about cooking is the ability to customize recipes to your liking. Here are some substitution ideas and variations you can try:

Protein Alternatives

• Turkey or Pork: Swap out the chicken for turkey or pork if you want to try something different.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. You can also add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.

Dairy-Free Version

• Coconut Cream: Replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
• Dairy-Free Cheese: Use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute to keep the creamy texture without the dairy.

Pasta Alternatives

• Gluten-Free Tortellini: If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free tortellini, which is available at most grocery stores.
• Other Pastas: While tortellini is delicious, you can use other pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni if that’s what you have on hand.

Cooking Tips and Tricks

To ensure your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips and tricks:

• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-shredded. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and has a richer flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Keep an eye on the tortellini as it cooks. Overcooked tortellini can become mushy, so aim for al dente.
• Adjusting Thickness of Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken up.
• Add Vegetables: Boost the nutritional content by adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas. Simply stir them in when you add the tortellini.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The combination of tender chicken, rich sauce, and cheesy tortellini is truly irresistible. Whether you’re making this dish for a special occasion or just a regular weeknight, it’s sure to be a hit.

One of the best parts about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, so you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home without spending hours in the kitchen.

This dish also makes for great leftovers, so don’t be afraid to double the recipe if you want to have extra on hand. It’s perfect for meal prepping or enjoying a cozy lunch the next day.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. Its rich, creamy sauce paired with tender chicken and hearty tortellini creates a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers delicious results every time.

So why not give it a try? Add Marry Me Chicken Tortellini to your weekly meal rotation and watch as your family and friends fall in love with this delectable dish. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table.

Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t forget to share this recipe with others who might need a little extra inspiration in the kitchen!