Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Delight is a creamy, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a luscious sun-dried tomato sauce. The sauce is rich and flavorful, with just the right touch of garlic and herbs that make each bite irresistible. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I love making this dish when I want to impress friends or treat my family to something special but without spending hours in the kitchen. The sauce comes together quickly, and the tortellini cooks up soft and pillow-y, soaking up all those tasty flavors. I always find myself sneaking an extra bite while it’s still hot!
My favorite way to serve Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Delight is with a simple green salad on the side and a slice of crusty bread to mop up every last drop of that creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home when you want something easy but still feel like you’re dining out. I promise, anyone who tries it will be asking for seconds.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken breast makes cooking easy and keeps the chicken tender. You can swap with chicken thighs for juicier meat if you prefer.
Tortellini: Cheese-filled tortellini gives creamy bites. Fresh tortellini cooks faster, but frozen works well too. You can also use ravioli or even gnocchi as a fun alternative.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a lovely tangy, intense flavor. Oil-packed ones are softer and more flavorful, but dry-packed work fine—just soak them in warm water first.
Heavy Cream & Parmesan: The cream makes the sauce rich, and Parmesan adds a salty, nutty depth. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or cream cheese instead of heavy cream.
How Do I Make the Creamy Sauce Smooth and Flavorful?
Getting the sauce just right is key! Follow these simple steps:
- Start by sautéing garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to release their aroma.
- Pour in chicken broth to scrape those tasty browned bits off the pan—this adds a ton of flavor.
- Add cream and cheese while stirring gently to melt the cheese slowly; this prevents clumps.
- Simmer the sauce on medium heat until it thickens slightly—don’t rush it!
My tip: Stir often and keep the heat gentle to avoid the sauce breaking or becoming grainy. This ensures the sauce stays silky and coats your chicken and tortellini beautifully.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for boiling tortellini without crowding.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – great for cooking chicken and making the sauce in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – easy to stir the sauce without scratching your pan.
- Colander – to drain the cooked tortellini quickly and easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for adding the right amounts of cream, broth, and spices.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for Italian sausage to add a bit of spice and heartiness.
- Add fresh spinach or kale for a boost of color and nutrients that blend well in the creamy sauce.
- Use different cheese tortellini fillings like spinach and ricotta for extra flavor variety.
- Mix in a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a smoky or spicy kick.
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Delight
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 (9 oz/250 g) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or a blend of dried basil, oregano, and thyme
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, so in total around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for weeknight dinners that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the tortellini and set it aside while you prepare the rest.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and use a spatula to scrape up any tasty browned bits from the pan.
Lower the heat to medium, then stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
4. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken to the sauce, add the drained tortellini, and toss everything together so it’s well coated with the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra red pepper flakes if you like a bit more heat.
Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or basil and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if you wish.
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time if needed, and be sure to thaw them slightly or cook them directly from frozen according to package instructions for best results.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, coconut milk, or cream cheese. Keep in mind these options may alter the flavor and creaminess slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance, then combine with freshly cooked tortellini when ready to serve for the best texture.
