Are you ready to impress your family or loved ones with a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy? Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is the perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful tortellini. This delightfully simple recipe promises to bring smiles to the dinner table. Let’s dive in and discover how to create a meal that could spark romance or just make dinner exciting!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Creamy: This dish features a rich, creamy sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken and tortellini, making each bite a delight.
- Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want an impressive meal without a lot of fuss.
- Versatile Ingredients: The combination of chicken, tortellini, and spinach can be easily adapted. You can add other vegetables or even swap the chicken for shrimp!
- Impressive Presentation: Served with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish looks as good as it tastes, making it perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- Fresh basil for garnish
Gather these ingredients to make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini. Each one plays a key role. The chicken gives protein, while the tortellini adds a hearty touch. Olive oil, garlic, and seasonings create a rich flavor base.
The cherry tomatoes add a burst of freshness. Heavy cream makes the sauce creamy and comforting. Baby spinach adds color and nutrients. Finally, the Parmesan cheese gives a salty twist. Use fresh basil to brighten the dish and enhance its look.
This combination creates a delicious meal. You can enjoy it any night of the week. If you like, you can also experiment with ingredients. Replace chicken with shrimp or add more veggies. The choice is yours!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Tortellini
1. Fill a large pot with water and add salt. Bring it to a boil.
2. Add the tortellini to the boiling water. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes.
3. Once the tortellini is cooked, drain it well. Set it aside for later.
Preparing the Chicken
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Place the chicken in the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then slice it into strips.
Making the Sauce
1. In the same skillet, add minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until you smell the aroma.
2. Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Cook until the tomatoes soften, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add the fresh baby spinach to the sauce. Cook until it wilts.
Combining Ingredients
1. Stir grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce. Mix until it melts and becomes smooth.
2. Gently fold in the cooked tortellini and sliced chicken. Toss everything until well coated in the creamy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
1. Serve the dish in a large bowl or on individual plates.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for a delicious finish.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
- To keep chicken juicy, use boneless, skinless breasts.
- Sear the chicken on medium heat. This adds flavor and keeps it moist.
- Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden. Let it rest before slicing.
- For perfectly cooked tortellini, boil salted water. Cook according to package time.
- Drain the tortellini promptly to avoid overcooking. Set aside until ready to use.
Flavor Enhancements
- Add spices like red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley brighten the dish.
- For a unique twist, try using smoked paprika.
- Experiment with different creamy bases, like cream cheese or ricotta.
- You can also use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Kitchen Tools
- Use a large pot for boiling tortellini. A deep skillet works best for the sauce.
- A sharp knife is vital for slicing chicken.
- Have a wooden spoon ready for stirring.
- Use measuring cups for accuracy in creamy ingredients.
- A colander is essential for draining tortellini.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh chicken and vegetables enhances the flavor of the dish significantly.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To keep the chicken juicy, avoid overcooking. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Adjust the Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken broth or use low-fat cream.
- Perfect Tortellini: Make sure to cook the tortellini just until al dente to maintain the perfect texture when mixed with the sauce.
Variations
Make It Healthier
You can easily lighten this dish. Start by swapping heavy cream for half-and-half or a nut-based milk. This simple change cuts calories but keeps the creaminess. You can also add more veggies. Try including bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms. They add color, flavor, and nutrients.
Dietary Adjustments
For gluten-free options, use gluten-free tortellini. Many brands offer this, making it easy to swap. If you need a dairy-free dish, go for a plant-based cheese. There are great alternatives for Parmesan as well. These changes ensure everyone can enjoy this meal.
Flavor Profile Changes
To switch up the protein, consider shrimp or turkey. Both cook quickly and add a new taste. You can also change the sauce. Instead of traditional Italian seasoning, try a bit of lemon zest or smoked paprika. These small tweaks can create a whole new dish!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini fresh, refrigerate it in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps flavors intact. It’s best to store it within two hours of cooking. The dish lasts up to three days in the fridge. If you notice any off smells or changes in color, it’s best to toss it.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Then, place it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. This meal can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream if it seems dry. Stir gently to keep the creamy texture. Enjoy your delicious meal even after a few months!
FAQs
What is Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a creamy, flavorful pasta dish. It combines tender chicken, cheese tortellini, and fresh spinach. The sauce features garlic, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. This dish is rich and comforting, perfect for a special dinner.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just cook it according to the package instructions. This saves time and makes the dish easier. The flavors will still blend well with the sauce.
How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat leftovers, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of cream or broth. Stir until warm. This keeps the sauce creamy and prevents drying out. You can also use the microwave, but stir often.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare some parts ahead of time. Cook the chicken and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, cook the tortellini and combine everything. This reduces the last-minute rush.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread. A light vegetable side like steamed broccoli works too. These options balance the rich flavors of the pasta. Enjoy them for a complete meal!
This blog post provided a simple yet tasty recipe for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini. We covered ingredients, cooking steps, and serving tips. You now know how to prepare a rich, creamy dish to impress anyone. Feel free to try variations and substitutions for different diets and tastes. Lastly, proper storage tips will help you enjoy your leftovers. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful mea
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients
- 2 breasts boneless, skinless chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- to taste salt and pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- for garnish fresh basil
Instructions
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and Italian seasoning, cooking until the tomatoes begin to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth. Then, gently fold in the cooked tortellini and sliced chicken. Toss until everything is well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Remove from heat, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
