Marry Me Chicken Tortellini: The Ultimate Comfort Pasta Recipe

Name: Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch chunks; 0.5 tsp kosher salt; 0.5 tsp black pepper; 1.5 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided; 1 small shallot, minced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes; 0.25 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, finely chopped; 0.25 cup tomato paste; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 lb cheese tortellini; 1 cup heavy cream; 3 cups spinach, roughly chopped; 0.5 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Introduction to Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

If you’re looking to impress someone special or just want a comforting meal that the whole family will love, look no further than Marry Me Chicken Tortellini. This delightful dish combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy tortellini, creating a meal that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish has all the flavors that make your heart sing.

A Personal Story Behind My Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Journey

I still remember the first time I prepared Marry Me Chicken Tortellini for my partner. The aroma filled the kitchen, and as we sat down to eat, I could see the joy on their face with each bite. It became our go-to recipe for date nights at home, and it never failed to impress. It’s not just a dish; it’s a way to create memories and share love through food.

What Makes This Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe Special?

What sets this recipe apart is the rich, creamy sauce that perfectly coats the cheese tortellini. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian spices elevates the dish, making it a standout in the world of pasta recipes. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, taking just about 35 minutes from start to finish, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.

The Full Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch chunks
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp smoked paprika
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tbsp butter
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
1 shallot, minced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, finely chopped
1/4 cup (3 oz) tomato paste
2 cups chicken broth
1 lb (16 oz) cheese tortellini
1 cup heavy cream
3 cups spinach, roughly chopped
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
For serving: Fresh basil, black pepper, red pepper flakes, parmesan

Instructions

Season the chicken: In a medium bowl, combine chicken chunks with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Toss to coat the chicken. Add flour and gently toss to lightly coat the chicken.

Cook the chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the seasoned chicken in an even layer. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate.
Build the sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil, garlic, shallot, and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Add tomato paste and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.

Add pasta: Stir in the tortellini, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until the tortellini is cooked. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Finish it up: Remove the lid and add the cooked chicken, spinach, cream, and parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well combined. Serve hot with fresh basil, extra parmesan, and cracked black pepper.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

This dish is fantastic on its own, but you can amp up the flavor by adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers. For a lighter version, swap out heavy cream for half-and-half or a non-dairy option. Serve the dish with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. And don’t forget to sprinkle some extra parmesan cheese on top before serving for that extra touch of indulgence!

Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Can I use other types of pasta? Yes! While cheese tortellini adds a great flavor, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes if you prefer.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep? Absolutely! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove.

What can I serve with this dish? A fresh garden salad or garlic bread would pair wonderfully with Marry Me Chicken Tortellini.

Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the dish, but keep in mind that the texture of the tortellini may change slightly upon thawing.

No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories per Serving: 480
Servings: 6