Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is your answer. This creamy, dreamy pasta dish combines tender tortellini with flavorful chicken and a rich sauce that will make your taste buds sing. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion when you want to impress someone special. With fresh ingredients, a few simple steps, and plenty of flavor, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
Reasons to Love Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
First off, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal? This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or romantic weekends. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, and spinach adds depth and color, while the creamy sauce envelops everything in a rich embrace. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover rotisserie chicken, saving you time without sacrificing flavor. And let’s be real—who wouldn’t want to whip up a dish that could potentially lead to a lifetime commitment?
Shopping List
To make your very own Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, here’s what you’ll need:
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, plus 1 tablespoon oil
- 8 ounces mushrooms, thinly sliced (Baby Bella recommended)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1-1/4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 7/8 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 9 ounces refrigerated Rana tortellini
- 1-1/2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (or diced)
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, coarsely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tools of the Trade
Before you dive into cooking, make sure you have the following tools handy:
- Large skillet: A good-quality skillet is essential for even cooking and to achieve that perfect creamy sauce.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and making sure everything is well combined.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to capturing the flavor of this dish.
- Cutting board and knife: For chopping those delicious veggies and chicken.
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini: From Prep to Plate
Ready to create magic in your kitchen? Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sun-dried tomatoes (along with 1 tablespoon of their oil) and sliced mushrooms. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Create the Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to combine. This will help thicken your sauce. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, then add the Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Gradually whisk in the whole milk and chicken broth until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Once the sauce has thickened slightly, reduce the heat to low and stir in 1/2 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and incorporated, creating a creamy sauce that coats the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Cook the Tortellini
Add the refrigerated Rana tortellini directly to the sauce. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until the tortellini is al dente. Stir gently to ensure each piece is coated in the delicious sauce.
Step 5: Stir in Chicken and Spinach
Once the tortellini is cooked, fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken and chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and everything is heated through.
Step 6: Final Touches
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle the remaining 3 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Ingredient Flex Options
Feel free to customize your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini with these options:
- Replace sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile.
- Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free alternative.
- Swap out the chicken for sautéed shrimp or tofu for a seafood or vegetarian version.
- Add your favorite vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to enhance the dish.
Notes from the Test Kitchen
- For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- If you love a bit of heat, increase the red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon for a spicier kick.
- The dish can be made ahead of time; just reheat gently on the stove before serving.
- Don’t skip the Parmesan cheese; it adds essential creaminess and depth to the sauce.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini fresh and delicious:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.
- Freeze any extra portions for a quick meal later; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Common Qs About Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini! Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they’re heated through.
What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to soak up that creamy sauce!
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the chicken and add more vegetables or even some beans for protein. Just make sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How do I make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini ahead of time?
Prepare the dish up to the point of adding the tortellini, then store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the tortellini and follow the cooking instructions.
Cook This Next
If you’re a fan of flavorful chicken dishes, you’ll want to try these recipes next:
- Honey Garlic Chicken – A sweet and savory dish that’s sure to please!
- Cajun Pasta – A spicy twist on your classic pasta night.
- Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan – A healthier take on a beloved favorite.
The Takeaway
In this bustling world, finding a recipe that brings joy to your table can seem daunting. However, Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is here to save the day—with its creamy sauce, tender tortellini, and hearty chicken, this dish is not just about feeding the body but also the soul. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or someone special, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories around the dinner table!
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sun-dried tomatoes (along with 1 tablespoon of their oil) and sliced mushrooms. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to combine. This will help thicken your sauce. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, then add the Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Gradually whisk in the whole milk and chicken broth until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly, reduce the heat to low and stir in 1/2 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and incorporated, creating a creamy sauce that coats the back of a spoon.
- Add the refrigerated Rana tortellini directly to the sauce. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until the tortellini is al dente. Stir gently to ensure each piece is coated in the delicious sauce.
- Once the tortellini is cooked, fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken and chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and everything is heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle the remaining 3 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- If you love a bit of heat, increase the red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon for a spicier kick.
- The dish can be made ahead of time; just reheat gently on the stove before serving.
- Don’t skip the Parmesan cheese; it adds essential creaminess and depth to the sauce.
