Amazing Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Irresistible Comfort Food Delight
Hola to all flavor seekers! My culinary adventures are deeply rooted in the vibrant culture of Mexico. Growing up in Orlando, the soul of my kitchen was shaped by pressing warm tortillas next to my mama and soaking in the spices from my abuela’s recipes. Those moments taught me that food is far more than just a meal; it’s a symphony of love, laughter, and cherished stories shared over every bite. Although I cherish Orlando as my home, a piece of me will always be wandering through Oaxaca’s bustling markets and my abuela’s warm kitchen, where I find joy in sharing authentic Mexican flavors, from hearty tamales to quick street-style treats. That’s why I’m excited to share with you my take on Marry Me Chicken Tortellini—where comfort meets irresistible flavor!
Quick Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: Italian, American
- Best Season: All year round
Reasons This Dish Shines
- Flavor Explosion: Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a vibrant blend of creamy sauce, succulent chicken, and delightful tortellini that bursts with flavor and warmth.
- Easy Preparation: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks looking for a tasty meal without the fuss.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. It strikes the right balance between elegance and homey comfort.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of chicken, cheesy tortellini, and rich sauce makes it a favorite that everyone will love. Prepare for rave reviews and requests for seconds!
Essential Ingredients for Success
- 1 (19 oz) bag frozen cheese tortellini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and thinly sliced
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups chopped baby spinach
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredient Insights That Help
- Frozen Cheese Tortellini: Ideal for a quick dinner, it cooks perfectly without the need for fresh pasta.
- Olive Oil: A staple for sautéing, it adds healthy fats and enhances the overall flavor.
- Chicken Breasts: Lean and tender, they can be easily swapped for chicken thighs if preferred.
- Heavy Cream: For a richer sauce, substitute with half-and-half if you’re looking to lighten it up a bit.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully into the sauce, creating a luscious texture.
Easy-to-Follow Instructions
Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken pieces with black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Craft the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter, then sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth, using a spoon to scrape any flavorful bits off the bottom, then add heavy cream, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and additional paprika. Bring this glorious mixture to a simmer.
Combine and Cook: Add the frozen tortellini to the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender. Gently fold in the cooked chicken and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce thickens. Finally, mix in the chopped spinach and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes until wilted.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a few moments to thicken. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving to add that pop of color and flavor.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Timing is Key: Ensure the pasta is perfectly al dente by checking it a minute or two before the time is up. Nobody likes mushy pasta!
- Garlic Love: Don’t rush the garlic; let it sauté until fragrant to maximize flavor.
- Thicker Sauce: If you like a thicker sauce, consider stirring in a touch of cream cheese or a cornstarch slurry.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with cheeses like Mozzarella or Asiago for varied flavors.
Creative Recipe Swaps
- Vegan Option: Use chickpea pasta and replace chicken with cubed tofu or tempeh, cooking them until crispy for a similar texture.
- Mild Flavors: Omit sun-dried tomatoes and use milder spices for a more subtle taste that kids will love.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage to amp up the heat level for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
- Regional Twist: Add some black beans, corn, and diced jalapeños for a fusion dish with a Mexican flair.
Perfect Pairings for Your Meal
Serve your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini alongside a light arugula salad drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette, or pair it with a chilled glass of iced tea for a refreshing contrast. For dessert, consider a luscious cheesecake to round off the meal perfectly.
Freezer & Meal Prep Tips
To make this dish ahead of time, prepare and follow all steps but do not cook the tortellini. Instead, store everything in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, it’s safe to freeze the sauce and chicken mixture (without the tortellini) for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding the tortellini while reheating, ensuring everything is softened and warmed through.
Beautiful Serving Suggestions
For a cozy presentation, serve the tortellini in deep bowls to keep everything warm. Scatter some fresh herbs on top and, for extra flair, add a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese or lemon zest. The vibrant colors and textures will invite everyone to dig in!
Handy Kitchen Secrets
- Freshness Counts: Always check the expiration dates on your cream and cheese to ensure the best flavor and quality.
- Spice it Up: Always taste your sauce before serving; adjust seasoning as needed to suit your palate.
- Use a Whisk: When adding cream, use a whisk to create a silky texture, making sure there are no lumps.
- Easy Cleanup: Line your baking tray with parchment paper when roasting or baking to make cleanup a breeze.
Smart Storage and Reheating Guidance
To keep your leftovers tasty, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, the stovetop is the best option as it preserves the texture. Add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream while warming to maintain that creamy consistency, or simply microwave for convenience, stirring halfway through until heated evenly.
Common Inquiries Answered
- Can I use fresh tortellini? Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time as fresh pasta typically cooks quicker.
- Is this dish gluten-free? You can use gluten-free tortellini for a suitable alternative, but ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes? You can use diced fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a different flavor.
- How do I know when the chicken is cooked? Chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Can this recipe be made dairy-free? Yes! Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
- What’s the best way to garnish? Fresh herbs like parsley or basil not only add color but also a freshness that enhances the dish!
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 740
- Protein: 40g
- Carbs: 54g
- Fat: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on cooking methods and ingredient brands.
Heartfelt Reflection
Food has a beautiful way of binding us together, creating communities through shared flavors and stories. Each time I prepare a recipe, I’m reminded of my roots in the kitchens of my abuela and the love that went into every dish. It’s a joy to share this Marry Me Chicken Tortellini with you, hoping it brings warmth to your table and brings family and friends closer. Gather around, enjoy every bite, and let the magic of food create new memories!
Closing Notes
So there you have it! This Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a delightful dish that melds heartwarming flavors with easy preparation. Celebrate the good moments with this cozy recipe—share it with loved ones, pin it for later, and let it inspire your culinary adventures. Happy cooking!
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Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A delightful blend of creamy sauce, succulent chicken, and cheesy tortellini, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 (19 oz) bag frozen cheese tortellini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and thinly sliced
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups chopped baby spinach
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season chicken pieces with black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter, then sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping any flavorful bits off the bottom. Then add heavy cream, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and additional paprika. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the frozen tortellini to the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender. Gently fold in the cooked chicken and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce thickens. Mix in the chopped spinach and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes until wilted.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for a few moments to thicken. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Notes
Serve with a light arugula salad or a chilled glass of iced tea.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 740
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
