Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting meal that’s full of tender chicken, soft cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich, flavorful sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes and garlic. The sauce is smooth and just a little bit tangy, making this dish feel special enough for a date night but easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
I love making this when I want something that feels like a treat without spending hours in the kitchen. The chicken stays juicy, and the tortellini soaks up all that delicious sauce. Whenever I make it, I end up sneaking bites while I cook, because it smells so good! Also, adding a sprinkle of fresh basil on top gives it a fresh pop that I always look forward to.
It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table with smiles and full bellies. Sometimes, I serve it with a simple green salad or garlic bread to make a complete meal that everyone enjoys. This recipe always gets compliments, and I’m pretty sure it’s called “Marry Me” for a reason—once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless skinless chicken breast works great for tender pieces, but feel free to use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness. Just adjust cooking time slightly.
Sun-dried Tomatoes: These add a tangy sweetness and depth. If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers are a nice substitute, offering mild sweetness and color.
Cheese Tortellini: Fresh or frozen tortellini stuffed with cheese brings creaminess. You can swap for other stuffed pasta like ravioli or even plain pasta if needed.
Heavy Cream: The base of the rich sauce. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese, though the sauce won’t be quite as thick.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the sauce. Pecorino Romano or Asiago can be used if you want a sharper taste.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach wilts quickly and adds freshness. You can use kale or arugula but add a bit earlier since they take longer to cook.
How Do I Get the Sauce Creamy Without It Breaking?
A creamy sauce is the heart of this dish, and the key is gentle heat and gradual mixing:
- Start by sautéing garlic and sun-dried tomatoes on medium heat to avoid burning the garlic, which turns bitter fast.
- Add heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring gently and scraping up any browned bits for flavor.
- Keep the heat medium-low once cream is added. High heat can cause the sauce to separate.
- Slowly stir in Parmesan cheese off direct heat or on very low heat so it melts smooth without clumping.
- Once tortellini and chicken are mixed in, let everything warm through but avoid boiling the sauce.
This careful approach keeps the sauce silky and full-bodied, coating the tortellini and chicken perfectly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large nonstick skillet – perfect for cooking chicken and making the creamy sauce without sticking.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring the sauce gently to keep it smooth.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps keep your ingredient amounts just right for the perfect flavor.
- Colander – useful if you need to drain cooked tortellini before adding it to the sauce.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked Italian sausage for a spicier, heartier dish.
- Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor and extra texture.
- Use kale instead of spinach for a more robust green that holds up well.
- Mix in sun-dried tomato pesto for a stronger tomato flavor boost.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably in oil, drained)
- 1 package (about 9 oz or 250g) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, so around 25 minutes total. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for a cozy, delicious dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Make the Sauce Base:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Use a spoon to scrape up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
3. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
4. Add Tortellini and Chicken:
Add the cheese tortellini right into the sauce. If you are using fresh tortellini, cook it beforehand according to the package instructions, drain, then add it. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and gently mix everything together.
5. Stir in Spinach and Finish:
Lastly, add the fresh baby spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts into the creamy sauce, coating the chicken and tortellini well. Taste the dish and add more salt or pepper if needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a bright, fresh touch. Serve your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini warm and enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method for quicker results. Pat the chicken dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream for a Lighter Option?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese for a lighter sauce. Just keep in mind the sauce may be less rich and slightly thinner, so cook gently to prevent curdling.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce becomes too thick.
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta Instead of Tortellini?
Yes! Cheese tortellini works best because it complements the creamy sauce, but you can substitute ravioli, gnocchi, or even penne. Just adjust cooking times according to the pasta you choose.