If you’re craving a soul-satisfying dinner that feels like a warm hug but doesn’t keep you in the kitchen for hours, this Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe is for you. It’s loaded with juicy chicken, pillowy cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich, sun-dried tomato cream sauce that’ll have your loved ones asking for seconds (or a ring 💍). Whether you’re hosting a cozy weeknight dinner or spicing up date night, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your table with minimal effort.
🍽️ 1. What Is Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a decadent twist on the classic viral dish “Marry Me Chicken,” where chicken is simmered in a creamy, sun-dried tomato Parmesan sauce. The addition of tortellini takes it up a notch, making it heartier, more comforting, and a complete one-pan meal.
Legend has it that this dish is so good, it could inspire a marriage proposal. While we can’t promise a ring, we can assure you that this meal is full of flavor, love, and cheesy goodness.
💖 2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ One-Skillet Meal – Less cleanup, more deliciousness.
✅ Ready in 30–35 minutes – Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
✅ Restaurant-quality flavor – With ingredients you already have.
✅ Family-friendly – Even picky eaters will be impressed.
✅ Great for entertaining – It’s elegant, cozy, and downright impressive.
🧾 3. Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the simple, accessible ingredients that make this creamy dish shine:
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (fresh is best)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a mild kick)
For the Pasta:
- 1 (20 oz) package of cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
To Finish:
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Extra Parmesan, for topping
👨🍳 4. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts on both sides with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This foundational seasoning builds flavor from the very beginning.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sear the chicken for 4–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C). Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet (don’t wipe it clean—those brown bits = flavor!), reduce the heat slightly and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well to deglaze the pan.
Add the sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Cook the Tortellini
Add tortellini directly into the simmering sauce. Stir to coat and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until tortellini is tender. Stir often to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Return Chicken to Pan
Slice or cube the seared chicken and return it to the pan. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes to let the flavors blend.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Top with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve warm with garlic bread or a side salad.
📝 5. Helpful Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the tortellini – Fresh tortellini cooks quickly. Taste test early!
- Use sun-dried tomatoes in oil – They have more flavor and soften beautifully in cream sauces.
- Deglaze the skillet – Don’t skip this step; it builds deep, savory flavor into the sauce.
- Use fresh basil last – Adding it too early can dull its flavor and color.
- Let the chicken rest before slicing – This keeps it juicy and tender.
🔄 6. Variations & Add-Ins
Want to customize? Here are some great ideas:
- Spinach or Kale – Add during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Mushrooms – Sauté after the chicken for added umami.
- Bacon Bits – Sprinkle crispy bacon on top before serving.
- Shrimp Instead of Chicken – A seafood twist that works perfectly.
- Pesto Drizzle – For a herby, nutty flavor boost.
⏲️ 7. Make-Ahead Instructions
🧊 Prep Ahead:
- Sear the chicken and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- You can also make the sauce ahead and refrigerate.
🔥 To Serve:
Reheat the sauce over low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickened too much. Cook tortellini fresh and combine everything just before serving.
🧊 8. Storing & Reheating Leftovers
- Storage: Cool completely and store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of cream or broth to restore creaminess.
- Do not microwave on high – High heat may separate the sauce.
🍽️ 9. Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with:
- Garlic bread or breadsticks
- A fresh Caesar or arugula salad
- Roasted asparagus or green beans
- A glass of chilled Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon
❓ 10. Common Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time and adjust for softness.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Swap the cream for coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
What if I only have dried tortellini?
Cook the tortellini separately and stir it into the sauce at the end. Dried pasta takes much longer to cook and can absorb too much liquid.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Not ideal. Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well and may separate when thawed.
🔢 11. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~720 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 40g |
| Saturated Fat | 20g |
| Sodium | 980mg |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 160mg |
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.
💬 12. Final Thoughts
This Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe brings together everything we love about comfort food—creamy sauce, cheesy pasta, and perfectly seasoned chicken. It’s indulgent without being overwhelming, quick enough for a weeknight, and impressive enough for guests.
It’s the kind of meal that doesn’t just fill the stomach—it feeds the soul. And if you’re lucky, maybe even your love life too. 😉
⭐ Love this recipe?
Explore more cozy, quick, and irresistible recipes on our blog—from cheesy pasta bakes to one-pot wonders. Bookmark this one—it’s going to be a go-to.
