The Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe is a scrumptious blend of creamy decadence and stick-to-your-ribs comfort food. Tender chicken meets cheese-filled tortellini, all covered in a rich, garlicky, sun-dried tomato sauce with plenty of fragrant herbs. Great for anything from a romantic dinner to a cozy family meal, this recipe is aptly named for being so delicious it just might lead to a marriage proposal! Whether you’re wowing guests or just indulging yourself, the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe guarantees a memorable and satisfying dining experience.
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The Origins of Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
The Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe combines two associated expert cuisines: The Italian, creamy, rich sauces, and the American hearty, flavorful comfort food. Tortellini, a second-favourite Italian pasta stuffed with cheese or meat, has been dressed in many a sauce, but its pairing with “Marry Me Chicken” elevates it to the modern classic. The “Marry Me Chicken” idea is said to have started here in the United States, its creamy, tangy sauce becoming a sensation for its romantic appeal and irresistible taste. Combining these two elements creates a dish that symbolizes love, warmth, and togetherness.
Health Benefits of Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe
While indulgent, this dish offers several nutritional benefits when prepared thoughtfully. Below is a breakdown of its key components and their contributions to your diet:
| Ingredient | Health Benefits |
|---|---|
| Chicken | High in lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. |
| Tortellini | Provides carbohydrates for energy; choose whole wheat for added fiber. |
| Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, supporting heart health and reducing inflammation. |
| Parmesan Cheese | A good source of calcium for strong bones; also contains protein. |
| Heavy Cream | Adds richness but should be consumed in moderation due to high fat content. |
| Garlic | Contains allicin, known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. |
| Fresh Herbs (Basil, Parsley) | Packed with vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants for overall wellness. |
Health Tips:
- Incorporate extra vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms, to boost the dish’s fiber and vitamins.
- Swap heavy cream for light cream or unsweetened almond milk to reduce calories.
- Use whole wheat tortellini for added fiber and nutrients.
Variations of Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to your different tastes and dietary needs:
- Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with pan-seared tofu or roasted vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers.
- Low-Carb Version: Substitute zucchini noodles or cauliflower gnocchi for the tortellini.
- Spicy: The sauce can be enhanced with red pepper flakes or a little bit of hot sauce.
- Seafood Option: Substitute chicken for shrimp or scallops for an indulgent seafood twist.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for All Occasions
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini The Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe comes into play as a very versatile dish that you can perfect for casual dinners or also special events. Its creamy, cheesy texture and bold flavours make it a favourite when it’s family dinner time, but its elegance makes it a show-stopper when it’s date night or dinner party. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, so cleanup is minimal, and the flavour is maximal — a win-win for busy cooks!
This recipe shows that you don’t need advanced techniques to make a restaurant-style dish. Whether you’re courting a partner, impressing guests, or just indulging yourself, this recipe will be sure to make any meal special.
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe From OoohDelish!
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe
Equipment
- Large Skillet: For searing the chicken and preparing the creamy sauce.
- Medium Pot: To cook the tortellini.
- Tongs: To handle and flip the chicken during cooking.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring the sauce without scratching your skillet.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure broth, cream, and spices.
- Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping sun-dried tomatoes and preparing fresh basil.
- Colander: To drain the cooked tortellini.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of refrigerated tortellini cheese or chicken-filled
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season and Sear the Chicken: Rub Italian seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on chicken breasts. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 mins on both sides until golden. Transfer from the skillet and reserve.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, stir in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes. Let it bubble away for 3–5 minutes until the sauce reduces a little.
- Instructions Cook the Chicken and Tortellini: Add the chicken breasts back into the skillet and simmer for 10 more minutes to make sure they are fully cooked. In the meantime, cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing gently to coat with the creamy sauce. Sprinkle red pepper flakes if desired. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Notes
You can use spinach or mushroom tortellini for variation.
For added texture, sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini makes a lovely accompaniment with simple sides to counteract its richness. Serve with something crunchy and green, dressed with a light vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. A piece of crunchy, crusty bread is ideal for mopping up the rich sauce. To make it more romantic, serve with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, in perfect harmony with the creamy, cheesy notes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe isn’t just really good, it is freaking versatile. This crowd-pleasing dish is great for weeknight dinners, special occasions, and meal prep. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken and cheesy tortellini, it’s an all-in-one meal that’s so comforting. Quick to make but fancy enough to impress, this recipe will become a favourite of yours in the kitchen, delighting all the shoehorned mouths that you feed.
Tips for the Perfect Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe
- Use fresh tortellini to ensure you get the best texture and flavour. Frozen or dried options can work in a pinch but may require adjustments to cooking time.
- Don’t cheat the Parmesan cheese — a good quality wedge for grating is important for depth in the creamy sauce.
- To keep the chicken juicy, be careful not to overcook it while searing it. Finish cooking the meat in the sauce for the most tenderness.
- Just before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of colour and flavour.
FAQs : Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe
What is chicken tortellini?
Chicken tortellini is a dish that combines tortellini pasta, typically stuffed with cheese or chicken, with a flavorful chicken-based sauce or broth. The result is a hearty, comforting meal enjoyed as a main course or in soups. This versatile dish can include various ingredients like fresh herbs, vegetables, and spices to enhance its flavor.
How to make chicken tortellini?
To make chicken tortellini, start by cooking the tortellini pasta in boiling salted water until tender. Meanwhile, prepare a creamy or tomato-based sauce with cooked chicken, garlic, onions, and your favorite seasonings. Combine the cooked tortellini with the sauce, garnish with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese, and serve hot. For a detailed recipe, visit this Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe.
How to make chicken tortellini soup?
Chicken tortellini soup is a comforting dish made by simmering chicken broth with vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions. Add cooked or shredded chicken and uncooked tortellini pasta, allowing the flavors to meld. Once the tortellini is tender, season with herbs like parsley or thyme, and serve with crusty bread for a wholesome meal.
Can you boil tortellini in chicken broth?
Yes, you can boil tortellini in chicken broth! In fact, cooking tortellini in chicken broth enhances the flavor, creating a richer and more savory dish. This technique is especially popular when making tortellini soup or when you want the pasta to absorb more flavor.
Share Your Twist!
We’d love to hear your version of the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe ! What special ingredients or techniques do you use to make it uniquely yours? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below, and let’s inspire each other to create even more delicious meals!
References
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe
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