Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe
If you’re searching for the ultimate cozy weeknight dinner, look no further than Marry Me Chicken Tortellini. This creamy, flavor-packed pasta is a delicious symphony of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, cheesy tortellini, and a luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce that will have everyone at the table swooning (and probably asking for seconds). Whether you’re cooking to impress or simply indulging yourself, Marry Me Chicken Tortellini turns everyday ingredients into something everyone will absolutely love.

Ingredients You’ll Need
With a handful of straightforward groceries and a few pantry staples, you’re set up for creamy, dreamy success. Each ingredient in Marry Me Chicken Tortellini brings its own magic, whether it’s adding a vibrant pop of color, a punch of flavor, or irresistible cheesy goodness.
- Olive oil: This is the perfect base for sautéing, adding just a hint of fruitiness to the dish.
- Boneless skinless chicken breast: Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and stay wonderfully juicy in the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper: These pantry staples are essential for seasoning your chicken right from the start.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the entire dish with aromatic, savory depth.
- Red pepper flakes: Just a pinch brings a gentle background heat that enlivens every bite.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Their sweet-tart chewiness brightens up the creamy sauce and adds a gorgeous pop of color.
- Chicken broth: This deglazes the pan and amps up the sauce’s savory flavor.
- Heavy cream: The backbone of richness, making the sauce silky and satisfying.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: For a nutty, salty complexity and extra creamy texture.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that ties all the other flavors together beautifully.
- Refrigerated cheese tortellini: These pillowy pasta bundles are stuffed with cheese and soak up the sauce perfectly.
- Baby spinach: Wilts delicately into the warm sauce, adding freshness and nutrition.
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional): A sprinkle of herbs at the end adds color and a lift of fresh flavor.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with a generous pinch of salt and pepper, then add the pieces to the pan in a single layer. Let them get beautifully golden on all sides and cook through—this usually takes about 6–7 minutes. Once they’re cooked, scoop the chicken onto a plate and set aside; those beautiful golden bits on the skillet are pure flavor territory for the next step.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
In the same skillet (no need to wipe it out!), add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Give them about a minute to really bloom and become fragrant. This step is where a lot of the dish’s signature depth comes together—you’ll actually smell the transformation happening right in front of you.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, using your spoon to scrape up any browned bits clinging to the bottom of the skillet (that’s major flavor!). Bring it to a simmer, then stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce heat gently for 2–3 minutes so it thickens slightly and the Parmesan melts into every drop.
Step 4: Simmer the Tortellini
Now add your cheese tortellini right to the skillet. Simmer according to package instructions—usually 3–5 minutes—until the pasta is perfectly tender but not mushy. The tortellini will absorb some of that creamy sauce and become little bursts of cheesy delight.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Return the cooked chicken (and any juices from the plate) to the skillet, then stir in the baby spinach. The heat from the sauce will wilt the spinach within a minute or two. As soon as everything is combined and piping hot, you’re ready! Sprinkle with chopped basil or parsley for a pop of fresh color and brightness.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Garnishes
For the prettiest presentation, don’t skip a handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top. A dusting of extra grated Parmesan never hurts, either—it makes the dish look (and taste) extra special. If you’re feeling bold, a few more sun-dried tomatoes scattered on top can let everyone know what they’re about to dive into.
Side Dishes
While Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a complete meal on its own, a crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette balances out the richness beautifully. Add a slice of garlic bread or a warm baguette to mop up every creamy drop of sauce. For a hint of freshness, some roasted or steamed asparagus or broccoli also works really well alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Marry Me Chicken Tortellini in a big, shallow bowl for that classic family-style experience. For an elegant dinner, plate it in individual pasta bowls with a basil leaf tucked on the edge. Hosting a casual gathering? Spoon the tortellini onto a platter and set it in the center of the table—let everyone help themselves and watch the smiles multiply!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Marry Me Chicken Tortellini stores beautifully. Cool it down to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days, making your next lunch or dinner a breeze.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini in a well-sealed, freezer-safe container. It’s best enjoyed within one month for peak flavor and texture. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen up the sauce as needed. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring regularly so everything heats evenly and the pasta stays tender.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! Just add a couple more minutes to the simmering time, and check that the tortellini is tender before serving. It works perfectly and is super convenient if you like to keep tortellini on hand in your freezer.
What’s the best way to lighten up the sauce?
If you’d like a more waistline-friendly version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half. You’ll still get a rich, creamy base with fewer calories and fat—just know that the sauce might be slightly less thick.
Can I substitute the chicken with something else?
Certainly! Cooked shrimp or even sautéed mushrooms work nicely for a pescatarian or vegetarian twist. Just adjust the cook time as needed so your protein is perfectly done without overcooking.
How do I make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini gluten-free?
All you’ll need is gluten-free tortellini, which is available in many stores these days. Double-check your chicken broth and Parmesan to be safe, and you’re set for a delicious, gluten-free meal.
Is Marry Me Chicken Tortellini spicy?
The hint of red pepper flakes provides gentle warmth rather than true heat. If you’re spice-shy, start with less or leave them out; if you love some kick, feel free to sprinkle in a bit more to taste!
Final Thoughts
Give Marry Me Chicken Tortellini a try and see for yourself why it’s earned its romantic reputation. It’s a sure way to win hearts and fill bellies—whether you’re cooking for loved ones or just treating yourself to something extraordinary. Enjoy every creamy, savory, cheese-filled bite!
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Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a creamy and flavorful one-pan chicken pasta dish that is perfect for a delicious and easy dinner. Sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and spinach add depth to this indulgent dish.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce:
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Tortellini:
- 9 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook seasoned chicken until golden, about 6-7 minutes. Set aside.
- Sauce: Sauté garlic, red pepper flakes, and sun-dried tomatoes. Add broth, cream, Parmesan, and seasoning. Simmer until thickened.
- Tortellini: Add tortellini to the sauce, cook per package instructions. Return chicken to skillet, add spinach and cook until wilted. Garnish and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add white wine with the broth.
- Substitute frozen tortellini with adjusted cook time.
- Lighten with half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lower-calorie version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 590 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg