Imagine coming home after a long day, and as you walk through the door, you’re greeted by the tantalizing aroma of a dish that not only fills your home with warmth but also brings your family together at the table. This is the magic of Easy Weeknight Marry Me Chicken Tortellini—a dish so delicious and comforting, it’s said to be love at first bite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe promises to be a hit with everyone.

What is Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini combines tender, juicy chicken pieces, cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich, creamy sauce flavored with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and spinach. The name comes from the dish’s ability to impress, often prompting declarations of love or even marriage proposals due to its irresistible taste. It’s the kind of meal that not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your heart.

Ingredients for Easy Weeknight Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Main Ingredients

• Tortellini: 1 (19 oz) bag frozen cheese tortellini
• Chicken: 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
• Seasonings: ½ tsp black pepper, ½ tsp Italian seasoning, ½ tsp paprika

Marry Me Sauce Ingredients

• Butter: 2 tbsp
• Sun-dried Tomatoes: ½ cup (in oil, drained and sliced thin)
• Garlic: 3 tsp (minced)
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup (low-sodium)
• Heavy Cream: 2 cups
• Seasonings: 1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp paprika
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup (finely shredded)
• Baby Spinach: 2 cups (chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Preparing the Chicken

First, you’ll want to season the chicken pieces thoroughly. Use ½ tsp of black pepper, ½ tsp of Italian seasoning, and ½ tsp of paprika to give the chicken a flavorful kick. Set the seasoned chicken aside as you prepare the skillet.

Cooking the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook them until they are golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Making the Marry Me Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Once the butter has melted, add 3 teaspoons of minced garlic and ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté these for about 30 seconds to release their flavors. Next, pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth and 2 cups of heavy cream. Add 1 teaspoon each of Italian seasoning, black pepper, and paprika. Whisk the mixture continuously until the sauce starts to bubble. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of finely shredded parmesan cheese until it completely melts and the sauce becomes smooth.

Combining Chicken, Tortellini, and Sauce

Add the cooked chicken, 2 cups of chopped baby spinach, and the frozen cheese tortellini directly into the skillet. Stir the mixture occasionally until the spinach starts to wilt, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Tips for the Perfect Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

• Chicken: Ensure your chicken pieces are evenly cut so they cook uniformly.
• Sauce Consistency: Achieve the perfect creamy consistency by whisking the sauce continuously and adding the parmesan cheese slowly.
• Tortellini: Do not overcook the tortellini. They should be tender but still firm to the bite to avoid a mushy texture.

Variations and Add-Ons

Different Types of Tortellini

You can experiment with different types of tortellini to keep the dish interesting. Try spinach tortellini for an extra hint of greens, or meat-filled tortellini if you’re looking for a heartier meal.

Protein Alternatives

If you want to switch things up, consider using shrimp, tofu, or turkey as alternative proteins. Each brings a unique flavor and texture to the dish.

Additional Vegetables

Adding more vegetables can not only enhance the nutritional value of the dish but also add more flavors and textures. Consider including mushrooms, bell peppers, or asparagus.

Serving Suggestions for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:

• Garlic Bread: The perfect complement to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad can balance out the richness of the tortellini.
• Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans can add a nice crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh tortellini works just as well. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as fresh pasta cooks faster than frozen.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components separately ahead of time. Cook the chicken and make the sauce, then combine them with the tortellini right before serving for the best texture.

What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?

This dish is quite versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. Garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables are all great options.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely! The creamy sauce and mild flavors are usually a hit with kids. You might want to reduce the black pepper if your children prefer milder dishes.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To make this dish healthier, you can use light cream instead of heavy cream, add more vegetables, and opt for whole wheat tortellini. These changes will reduce the calorie count while keeping the dish delicious.

Conclusion: Share the Love with Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Cooking and sharing meals are some of the most heartfelt ways to show love to those around you. Easy Weeknight Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of togetherness, comfort, and culinary delight. Whether you’re making it for a special someone or your entire family, this recipe is sure to create moments of joy and satisfaction. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and bring a little love to your table tonight.

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