Marry Me Chicken Tortellini – Creamy One-Pan Dinner Recipe

There’s something truly special about a meal that’s both incredibly delicious and easy to make. Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is one of those dishes that feels like an instant favorite, bringing together the richness of a creamy Parmesan sauce, the tenderness of chicken, and the heartiness of cheese-filled tortellini. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a cozy family dinner, or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

The name Marry Me Chicken has been around for a while, rumored to be so good that it could inspire a marriage proposal. While that part may be a fun exaggeration, one thing is true—this dish is deeply comforting, satisfying, and loaded with flavorful, cheesy goodness. By adding tortellini to the mix, we take this classic to a whole new level, making it even more filling and indulgent.

I first made this recipe on a cold evening when I was craving something warm and comforting. I wanted something creamy, cheesy, and hearty, but without spending hours in the kitchen. This one-pan dish turned out to be the perfect solution. From the first bite, it was clear this was a recipe I’d be making again and again.

What I love most about this dish is its versatility. You can keep it simple with just chicken, tortellini, and sauce, or add extras like mushrooms, spinach, or even a little spice to customize it to your taste. Plus, it all comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you want something special but don’t have much time.

If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to make at home, Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is the answer. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish has so many reasons to become a regular in your meal rotation. Here are just a few reasons why Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is truly a must-try recipe:

1. One-Pan Convenience

There’s nothing better than a one-pan meal. Everything from searing the chicken to making the creamy sauce and cooking the tortellini happens in the same skillet, meaning minimal cleanup—a win for busy weeknights.

2. Luxuriously Creamy & Cheesy

The sauce in this dish is next-level creamy, thanks to heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Every bite is coated in a luscious, flavorful sauce that’s both rich and satisfying.

3. Packed with Flavor

The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates a deeply savory and slightly tangy sauce that complements the chicken and tortellini perfectly.

4. Quick & Easy to Make

This entire dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

5. Family-Friendly

Both kids and adults will love this dish. The cheesy tortellini and creamy sauce make it a crowd-pleaser, while the chicken adds satisfying protein.

6. Customizable

You can easily tweak this recipe to fit your taste. Swap the chicken breasts for chicken thighs, use different types of cheese, or even add some spice with red pepper flakes.

7. Restaurant-Worthy at Home

This dish tastes like something you’d order at a fancy Italian restaurant, but it’s made with simple, easy-to-find ingredients right in your own kitchen.

With all these reasons, there’s no doubt that this dish will become a staple in your meal rotation. But beyond just tasting amazing, this dish also has some great health benefits.

Health Benefits

While Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is an indulgent dish, it also contains several nutritious ingredients that provide important health benefits. Here’s why you can feel good about enjoying this meal:

1. High in Protein

The chicken breast in this recipe provides a generous amount of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and keeping you full.

2. Rich in Calcium

Since this dish contains Parmesan cheese and cheese-stuffed tortellini, it’s a great source of calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth.

3. Contains Healthy Fats

Olive oil and sun-dried tomatoes provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which are good for maintaining cholesterol levels and overall heart health.

4. Provides Essential Vitamins & Minerals

The baby spinach in this dish is loaded with iron, vitamin K, and fiber, making it a great way to sneak in some greens without sacrificing flavor.

5. Can Be Made Lighter

If you want to lighten up this dish, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, use whole wheat tortellini, or add more vegetables for extra fiber.

Now that we know why this dish is both delicious and nutritious, let’s go over the time commitment, serving size, and nutritional breakdown.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 650
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g

Now that we have the basics covered, let’s move on to the most important part—the ingredients!

Ingredients List

The Chicken & Tortellini:

• 1 (19 oz) bag frozen cheese tortellini
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika

The Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and sliced thin
• 3 tsp minced garlic
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups chopped baby spinach

Now that we have everything ready, let’s start cooking!

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

1: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken pieces with black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are golden brown and fully cooked.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

2: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Stir in 3 teaspoons of minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced sun-dried tomatoes and stir for another 30 seconds.
4. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Stir in 2 cups of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of paprika.
6. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.

 3: Add Parmesan & Tortellini

1. Slowly sprinkle in 1 cup of finely shredded Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly to ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
2. Add the frozen tortellini and stir to coat. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the tortellini to soften.

 4: Combine Everything & Simmer

1. Once the sauce has thickened and the tortellini has softened, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together to ensure the chicken is evenly coated in the sauce.
2. Add 2 cups of chopped baby spinach, stirring it into the sauce. The spinach will begin to wilt within 1-2 minutes, blending seamlessly into the creamy mixture.
3. Let the entire dish simmer for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, so that all the flavors meld together. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up.
4. Remove the skillet from heat and let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to settle and ensures every bite is perfectly creamy and flavorful.

Now that your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is ready, let’s talk about how to serve it!

How to Serve

This dish is so rich and flavorful that it can easily stand alone, but pairing it with the right sides can take it to another level. Here are some of the best ways to serve this creamy, indulgent meal:

1. Classic Style

Serve it straight from the skillet with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped basil or parsley for a beautiful presentation.

2. With Garlic Bread

A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the creamy sauce. You can also serve it with crusty Italian bread or homemade dinner rolls.

3. Over a Bed of Greens

For a lighter option, serve the tortellini over a bed of fresh arugula or spinach. The warmth of the pasta slightly wilts the greens, creating a delicious contrast.

4. Topped with Extra Crunch

Add toasted pine nuts, crushed walnuts, or even crispy turkey bacon bits for a little crunch and extra depth of flavor.

5. As a Romantic Dinner

Since this dish has been known to inspire marriage proposals, why not light some candles and set up a cozy dinner date? Serve with a side of roasted vegetables and finish with a decadent dessert.

Now that you know how to serve it, let’s explore some great pairing suggestions!

Pairing Suggestions

To make this meal even more special, pair it with the perfect side dish and beverage. Here are some excellent options:

Best Side Dishes

1. Simple Side Salad – A fresh Caesar salad or arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Oven-roasted asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts add a delicious contrast in texture.
3. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes work well as a comforting side, especially if you want to stretch the dish to feed more people.
4. Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans – A light, healthy option that adds color and nutrition.

Best Drinks

1. Refreshing Sparkling Water – A squeeze of lemon or lime adds a refreshing touch.
2. Iced Tea or Lemonade – A slightly sweetened drink helps cleanse the palate.
3. Non-Alcoholic Sangria – A mix of grape juice, orange slices, and sparkling water adds a festive touch to the meal.

Once you’ve enjoyed your meal, you might wonder about storing leftovers or making this dish ahead of time. Let’s go over the best ways to store, freeze, and reheat Marry Me Chicken Tortellini!

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store leftover tortellini in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Separation Tip: The sauce might thicken as it sits, but don’t worry! Just add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to restore the texture.

Freezing Instructions

• Freezing: If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Methods

1. Stovetop (Best Option): Add the leftovers to a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or cream. Stir until warmed through.
2. Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
3. Oven: If you have a larger portion, place it in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

Want to make sure your dish turns out perfect every time? Let’s go over some common mistakes to avoid!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Chicken – If the chicken is cooked too long, it can become dry. Be sure to cook it just until golden brown and fully cooked, then remove it from the pan while making the sauce.
2. Skipping the Parmesan Stirring Step – Adding Parmesan too quickly can lead to a clumpy sauce. Slowly sprinkle it in while stirring constantly for the smoothest consistency.
3. Not Adjusting the Sauce Consistency – If the sauce thickens too much, add a bit of chicken broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer.
4. Using Low-Quality Tortellini – Fresh or high-quality frozen tortellini makes a huge difference in texture and flavor.
5. Forgetting to Let It Rest – Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving helps the sauce coat the tortellini better.

To take your cooking to the next level, here are some pro tips!

Pro Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

1. Use Fresh Garlic & Herbs – Fresh ingredients elevate the flavor and make the dish taste restaurant-quality.
2. Brown the Chicken Well – A golden crust on the chicken adds incredible depth to the sauce.
3. Simmer Slowly – Allowing the sauce to simmer gently ensures the best creamy texture.
4. Double the Sauce if You Like It Extra Creamy – If you love extra sauce, increase the cream, broth, and cheese slightly.
5. Make It Spicy – Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Still have questions? Let’s go over some FAQs!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh tortellini cooks faster, so adjust the simmering time to 2-3 minutes instead of 5.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are more juicy and flavorful. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces and follow the same instructions.

3. How can I make this dish healthier?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, whole wheat tortellini, and add more spinach or vegetables.

4. What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

You can substitute roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes for a different but delicious flavor.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything except the tortellini, then add the fresh pasta when reheating to keep it from getting too soft.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a creamy, indulgent, and flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking to impress someone special, this dish never disappoints.

I’d love to hear how your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini turned out! Leave a comment below, or tag me on social media with your delicious creations. Happy cooking!

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