The perfect marriage of tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce, this Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a flavor-packed dish that lives up to its romantic name. It’s quick enough for weeknights but special enough for date nights or family gatherings.
The luscious creaminess of the sauce pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and pillow-soft tortellini, making every bite satisfying and memorable. The fresh basil garnish adds a bright finish, bringing balance to the richness of the dish. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just want a comforting meal at home, this recipe is a winner every time.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
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1 cup chicken broth
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
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Add chicken to skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Pour in chicken broth and deglaze the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
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Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using.
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Let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
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Return chicken to the skillet, add tortellini, and gently toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
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Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 620 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is more than just a meal—it’s a delicious declaration of flavor. With its rich, creamy sauce, perfectly seasoned chicken, and tender cheese-filled tortellini, this dish has earned its charming name by being so good, it might just inspire a marriage proposal. It’s the ultimate comfort food that balances gourmet flavor with the ease of a home-cooked recipe, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners, date nights, and everything in between.
This modern classic combines familiar pantry staples with bold, Italian-inspired flavors. The creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce is infused with sun-dried tomatoes, giving it a tangy depth that perfectly complements the juicy chicken. Toss in tender tortellini and fresh herbs, and you have a one-pan wonder that’s both hearty and irresistible.
The Origin Behind the Name
The story behind the name “Marry Me Chicken” is as charming as the dish itself. The name was coined because it’s said to be so delicious that it could prompt someone to pop the question after the first bite. While it’s not a traditional Italian dish by history, it has quickly become a staple in American kitchens due to its simplicity and flavor.
Adding tortellini to the original “Marry Me Chicken” concept elevates it further. Tortellini, with its cheese-stuffed pillows of pasta, brings an additional layer of richness and comfort. Together, they create a meal that feels both cozy and indulgent.
Why This Dish Works So Well
There’s a reason Marry Me Chicken Tortellini stands out. It hits all the right notes—creamy, savory, cheesy, and just a little tangy. The flavor profile is balanced, and every element in the dish plays a key role in making it satisfying. The creaminess from the heavy cream and cheese, the umami punch from sun-dried tomatoes, and the herby lift from Italian seasoning and fresh basil all come together in harmony.
It’s also extremely versatile. Whether you’re looking to serve it as a romantic dinner, a hearty family meal, or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe fits every occasion. It’s elegant enough for special evenings and simple enough for everyday cooking.
Cooking Tips and Customizations
One of the best things about Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is how easily it can be customized. Here are a few tips and twists you can try:
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Switch Up the Pasta: If you don’t have tortellini on hand, you can substitute with gnocchi, penne, or ravioli. The sauce pairs beautifully with many types of pasta.
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Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
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Add Veggies: Want to pack in some extra nutrients? Spinach, mushrooms, or peas can be stirred in right before the tortellini for added texture and freshness.
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Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, use pre-cooked or shredded rotisserie chicken. This shortcut makes the dish even quicker to prepare on busy nights.
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Make It Lighter: You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a cold winter evening or a cozy weekend meal, this dish offers the kind of warmth and comfort that hits the spot. It’s especially wonderful as a date-night dinner because it’s indulgent but not overly complicated. The creamy sauce and savory elements pair wonderfully with a glass of wine—white or red—making the whole meal feel just a bit fancy without being fussy.
This dish is also a crowd-pleaser. The rich flavor makes it ideal for potlucks, family get-togethers, or dinner parties. Everyone loves pasta, and when it’s smothered in a silky, savory sauce with perfectly cooked chicken, it’s nearly impossible to resist.
Storage and Leftovers
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is just as delicious the next day. The flavors continue to meld and deepen, making leftovers something to look forward to. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce as it warms. Heat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave in short intervals to maintain the creamy texture. While it can be frozen, the dairy in the sauce may separate slightly when thawed, so fresh is best.
Nutritional Highlights
While Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a comfort food at heart, it does have some nutritional benefits, especially when made at home. The chicken provides lean protein, and if you add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, you can boost the fiber and vitamin content. Using whole grain or protein-rich tortellini adds even more nutrition.
Of course, the creamy sauce is rich—but it’s balanced by the protein and carbs, making it a satisfying, complete meal. And when made from scratch, it contains no preservatives or artificial ingredients, giving it an edge over takeout or store-bought pasta dishes.
Pairing Suggestions
To complete your meal, consider serving Marry Me Chicken Tortellini with a crisp green salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette or a simple olive oil and lemon mix. Garlic bread or freshly baked focaccia makes a great addition to soak up the extra sauce. For drinks, a chilled glass of Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir complements the richness of the dish without overpowering it.
If you’re planning a multi-course meal, start with a light appetizer such as bruschetta or a caprese salad. Finish with a simple dessert like panna cotta, tiramisu, or even a scoop of gelato to stay in the Italian theme.
Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Dish
There are meals you try once and forget, and then there are dishes like this—ones you return to over and over again. Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is one of those rare recipes that becomes a household favorite. It’s easy to love, easy to make, and endlessly adaptable. It can be dressed up or down, served to loved ones or enjoyed solo, and always delivers on flavor.
You don’t need to be an expert in the kitchen to make it, but it’ll taste like you are. It’s forgiving enough for beginner cooks and rewarding enough for seasoned home chefs who want something that feels special.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is more than just a clever name—it’s a meal that delivers on every front: taste, texture, comfort, and presentation. With its creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, perfectly seasoned chicken, and pillowy tortellini, it’s the kind of dish that leaves people asking for seconds (and maybe even your hand in marriage!).
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe offers the kind of soul-satisfying experience that turns an ordinary evening into something extraordinary. So the next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner, try this unforgettable dish—you might just fall in love.