Introduction
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a luxurious, creamy dish that brings together tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich, sun-dried tomato Parmesan sauce. This dish is so flavorful and comforting that it’s said to be “proposal-worthy.” Perfect for romantic dinners or family meals, it’s quick to prepare while delivering restaurant-quality taste.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Rich & Creamy: A velvety sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Easy to Make: Ready in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Comforting & Indulgent: The combination of tender chicken and cheesy tortellini is irresistible.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for a cozy date night or a satisfying family dinner.
Origin of the Dish
The “Marry Me Chicken” recipe gained fame through food bloggers and social media. Its Tuscan-inspired creamy sauce, featuring Parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes, gives it a luxurious Italian flair. The addition of cheese tortellini elevates it into a heartier, more indulgent meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Tortellini:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced)
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
Method of Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Tortellini
- Boil water and cook the cheese tortellini as per package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
- Add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Mix in red pepper flakes (if using) and let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Return the cooked chicken and tortellini to the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then garnish with fresh basil.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Tips:
- Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Sear the chicken properly to lock in moisture.
- Don’t overcook the tortellini, as it can become too soft.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Skipping Parmesan cheese: It thickens the sauce and adds depth of flavor.
- Using low-fat cream: The sauce won’t be as rich and creamy.
- Adding tortellini too soon: It can absorb too much sauce and lose texture.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Chicken: High in protein and supports muscle growth.
- Garlic: Has immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins.
- Basil: Aids digestion and has anti-inflammatory effects.
Serving Tips
- Serve hot with garlic bread or a light green salad.
- Pair with a glass of white wine like Chardonnay.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Interesting Facts About Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
- The phrase “Marry Me Chicken” became a viral sensation because of its romantic name and rich flavors.
- Some variations include adding spinach or mushrooms for extra depth.
- The dish is inspired by Tuscan-style creamy pasta recipes.
Summarized Recipe
Ingredients: Chicken breasts, cheese tortellini, olive oil, butter, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes.
Steps:
- Sear seasoned chicken and set aside.
- Cook tortellini separately and drain.
- Make the creamy sauce with butter, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and cream.
- Add Parmesan cheese, then return the chicken and tortellini to the skillet.
- Simmer, garnish with basil, and serve warm.
Enjoy this Marry Me Chicken Tortellini—a creamy, indulgent dish perfect for any special occasion!