Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy tortellini in a rich sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. With its comforting flavors and easy preparation, you’ll want to add this to your regular rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The blend of creaminess and flavor makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and parmesan cheese creates an irresistible taste that will wow your guests.
• Healthy Options: With fresh spinach and lean chicken, you can feel good about serving this meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini efficiently, having the right tools is essential. They help streamline the cooking process and ensure delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk
• Knife
• Chopping board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows for even cooking of chicken and ensures all ingredients blend well without crowding.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps achieve a smooth sauce by breaking up any clumps as you incorporate the cheese into the cream.

Ingredients

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini features tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and cheesy tortellini, all simmered in a creamy, flavorful sauce. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions!

For the Tortellini

• 1 (19 oz) bag frozen cheese tortellini

For the Chicken & Vegetables

• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil (drained and sliced thin)
• 2 cups baby spinach (chopped)

For Seasoning & Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 teaspoons garlic (minced)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup parmesan cheese (finely shredded)

Spices

• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika

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 let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

• Reduce heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, melt butter.
• Sauté minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

• Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream.
• Add Italian seasoning, black pepper, and paprika. Whisk continuously until sauce bubbles.
• Slowly whisk in parmesan cheese until fully melted.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

• Return cooked chicken to the skillet along with chopped spinach and frozen tortellini.
• Stir occasionally until spinach wilts; let simmer for approximately 5 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

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

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to suit any occasion. Whether you’re having a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side for a delicious complement to the creamy sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: A freshly baked baguette is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and Caesar dressing pair wonderfully with the rich flavors of tortellini.
• Caprese Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze adds freshness to your meal.

Offer Wine Options

• Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the creaminess of the dish.
• Pinot Noir: This light red wine complements chicken dishes beautifully.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Basil: Adding fresh basil leaves not only brightens up the presentation but also adds a burst of flavor.
• Parmesan Shavings: Garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese elevates both taste and appearance.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

To make your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini truly unforgettable, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes to boost flavor.
• Cook Tortellini Al Dente: Cook tortellini until just tender to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning Carefully: Taste as you go; adding salt or pepper gradually ensures balanced flavors.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving helps meld all the flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Adding side dishes can enhance your meal experience when enjoying Marry Me Chicken Tortellini. Here are some excellent options that pair well:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting blend.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing the richness of the main dish.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus brings a touch of elegance and crunch.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and herbs offers a refreshing bite before the main course.
5. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with assorted greens and vinaigrette cleanses the palate between bites.
6. Risotto: Creamy risotto serves as a luxurious side that complements the chicken and tortellini perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for a golden brown color and ensure it’s cooked through but still juicy.
• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season your chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season well with black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika before cooking.
• Using low-quality tortellini: Not all tortellini are created equal. Opt for high-quality cheese tortellini for the best texture and flavor in your dish.
• Not letting the sauce thicken: Rushing the sauce can result in a runny consistency. Allow it to bubble and thicken before adding other ingredients.
• Ignoring spinach wilting time: Adding spinach too soon can leave it raw. Wait until the sauce is ready to stir in the spinach until just wilted.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the dish cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, wrap tightly with plastic wrap before sealing.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a creamy pasta dish combining tender chicken, cheese tortellini, and sun-dried tomatoes in a delicious sauce.

Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh tortellini will work perfectly. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since they usually cook faster than frozen varieties.

How do I make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini healthier?

To lighten this dish, use low-fat cream and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

Can I prepare Marry Me Chicken Tortellini in advance?

Absolutely! You can prep everything ahead of time, but it’s best to cook it fresh when you’re ready to serve for optimal taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is not only delicious but also versatile! This crowd-pleaser is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!