Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and cheesy tortellini in a creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a favorite among family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of total time, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish combines familiar flavors that appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different proteins.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The creamy sauce infused with garlic and sun-dried tomatoes elevates the dish to restaurant-quality.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one skillet makes cleanup a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini turns out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides enough space for cooking all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results.
• Measuring spoons: Helps maintain precise seasoning levels for optimal flavor.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching the skillet surface.

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
• 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)
• 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 for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

Reduce heat to medium-low. Melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and paprika. Whisk continuously until the sauce starts to bubble. Gradually whisk in parmesan cheese until completely melted.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with chopped spinach and frozen tortellini. Stir occasionally until spinach begins to wilt. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

Garnish with fresh parsley and additional parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Chicken Tortellini!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can present this dish in various ways to enhance its appeal and flavor.

Family Style

• Serve the tortellini in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a warm, inviting atmosphere at dinner.

Individual Bowls

• Dish out portions into individual bowls for a more formal presentation. Add a sprinkle of extra parmesan on top for an elegant touch.

Garnished Plates

• Plate the tortellini with fresh parsley or basil as a garnish. This adds color and freshness, making the dish visually appealing.

With Garlic Bread

• Pair with crispy garlic bread for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Accompanied by Salad

• Serve alongside a mixed green salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the tortellini. A light vinaigrette would work well here.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

To make your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality cheese will enhance the flavors significantly.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your taste preferences. Adding red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick.
• Cook Tortellini Al Dente: Follow package instructions and cook tortellini just until tender; this prevents them from becoming mushy in the sauce.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor diversity.
• Let It Simmer: Allow the dish to simmer longer on low heat after adding all ingredients for deeper flavor development.
• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will continue to meld, making for an even tastier meal later on.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Chicken Tortellini can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Toast slices with butter and garlic for maximum flavor.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the tortellini.

3. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish’s flavors.

4. Roasted Asparagus
   Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness; drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice before baking.

5. Caprese Salad
   Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a light and flavorful addition that works well with Italian cuisine.

6. Antipasto Platter
   A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables can serve as an exciting starter or side that complements your meal nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can elevate your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini to the next level. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Many people overlook seasoning the chicken before cooking. It’s essential to season the chicken with black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika for depth of flavor.

• Overcooking the tortellini: Cooking tortellini too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions carefully and aim for al dente texture.

• Not letting the sauce simmer: Some rush through the sauce-making process. Allowing it to simmer helps meld the flavors together, creating a creamy and rich consistency.

• Using low-quality ingredients: Poor-quality cream or cheese can affect the final taste. Opt for good quality heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best results.

• Neglecting fresh herbs: Garnishing your dish with fresh parsley can enhance both flavor and presentation. Don’t skip this final touch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Use within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Marry Me Chicken Tortellini that may help you out!

Can I use other types of pasta instead of tortellini?

You can definitely substitute tortellini with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!

What can I add for extra protein?

Adding vegetables like broccoli or peas is a great way to boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor. You could also include cooked chicken or turkey.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version of Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and replace any meat with extra veggies.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything but add the spinach right before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love!