Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini brings together juicy chicken bites tender cheese tortellini vibrant sun dried tomatoes and a silky Parmesan cream sauce for pure comfort in every bite It is the kind of meal that feels both luxurious and easy enough for a weeknight I love pulling this out when I want to impress my family in under thirty minutes

The first time I made this recipe it instantly became a requested favorite for family get togethers and cozy rainy days Everyone always asks for seconds

Ingredients

• Cheese tortellini frozen: Look for plump pasta with plenty of filling for the best cheesy bites
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Ensure even thickness for juicy result cut into bite sized pieces for quicker cooking
• Olive oil: Choose a fruity good quality oil for searing and added flavor
• Black pepper: Freshly cracked adds bolder flavor than pre ground
• Italian seasoning: Try to use a blend with oregano basil and thyme for Mediterranean depth
• Paprika: I love the hint of smoke and warmth it brings
• Butter: Adds silky richness and helps toast the garlic
• Sun dried tomatoes in oil: Choose luscious bright colored strips packed in olive oil for the most intense sweet tang
• Garlic minced: Fresh garlic is key for savory aromatics
• Low sodium chicken broth: Balances the richness and allows you to control saltiness
• Heavy cream: Look for real cream with no added gums for the smoothest sauce
• Parmesan cheese finely shredded: Freshly grated makes a creamier melt avoid pre shredded
• Baby spinach: Chopped leaves wilt perfectly into the sauce adding color and a fresh bite
• Fresh parsley and parmesan for garnish: Gives a finishing burst of color and umami

Step by Step Instructions

Season the Chicken:

Sprinkle the chicken pieces with black pepper Italian seasoning and paprika Toss until all sides are evenly coated with the spices This step infuses the meat with flavor before cooking

Brown the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high Spread chicken pieces out so they sear instead of steam Let them cook undisturbed for several minutes to form a golden crust Cook for six to eight minutes until cooked through and golden Remove chicken to a plate and set aside

Saute the Aromatics:

Reduce heat to medium low Add butter to the skillet and let it melt Scrape up any browned bits then add the minced garlic and sun dried tomatoes Stir constantly for about thirty seconds until fragrant but not browned This quick saute blooms the flavors

Build the Creamy Sauce:

Add chicken broth heavy cream Italian seasoning black pepper and paprika Whisk everything together and keep stirring as the sauce heats up Bring to just below a simmer Allow the sauce to bubble lightly then slowly whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted creamy and smooth

Combine and Simmer:

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with chopped spinach and frozen tortellini Gently fold together to coat everything in sauce Cover if needed and let simmer for about five minutes Stir occasionally to help the spinach wilt and the tortellini heat through

Garnish and Serve:

Give a final stir Taste and adjust seasonings Scatter over fresh parsley and another sprinkle of parmesan Let the pasta rest for a couple minutes before serving so the sauce thickens and flavors meld

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Parmesan in this dish is the star for me It gives the sauce incredible depth and that classic Italian comfort flavor I remember my son sneaking handfuls of shredded parmesan every time I make this

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in individual airtight containers and keep refrigerated for up to three days The sauce thickens overnight but loosens up as you reheat Add a splash of cream or broth if needed to bring the sauce back to life Warm gently over low heat stirring occasionally

Ingredient Substitutes

You can swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you want even juicier bites Sun dried tomatoes packed dry can work just soak them in hot water first If you have trouble finding frozen cheese tortellini use refrigerated or even dried versions cooked separately

Serving Suggestions

This is a stand alone meal but crusty garlic bread or a fresh green salad turn it into a real feast I sometimes like to drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the top or add toasted pine nuts for extra crunch

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Cultural Context

Inspired by the American Italian tradition of creamy skillet dinners Marry Me Chicken Tortellini blends rustic flavors with accessible convenience The name comes from the idea that a dish this good just might inspire a marriage proposal Creamy chicken pastas have become modern classics for good reason

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh tortellini can be substituted. Adjust cooking time as it may cook faster than frozen varieties.

→ What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for tender bites, but thighs can add extra richness if preferred.

→ How can I make the dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat without overpowering the creamy base.

→ Can I prepare components ahead of time?

Yes. Cook the chicken and sauce separately, store them, and combine with tortellini just before serving for best texture.

→ How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Use low-medium heat and add parmesan gradually while whisking the sauce to maintain a creamy consistency.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half can be used for a lighter sauce, though the texture will be less rich and creamy than with heavy cream.