If there’s one dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, it’s this Marry Me Chicken Tortellini. Imagine tender chicken, perfectly seasoned, cooked until golden, then sliced and tossed into a rich, creamy sauce that clings to every cheesy tortellini pillow. The magic truly happens when you slice the cooked chicken into strips and add to the skillet with the sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that’s absolutely irresistible. This recipe brings together comfort and elegance in the most delicious way possible, making it a go-to for cozy dinners that impress without the fuss.

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Marry Me Chicken Tortellini lies in its simplicity; each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish shine. From the tender chicken to the creamy Parmesan-infused sauce, these components come together effortlessly.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, juicy and tender once cooked.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For perfectly searing the chicken to a golden crisp.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a mellow garlic flavor deep inside the chicken.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Gives subtle sweetness and depth to the seasoning.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that layers in herbaceous aroma.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all flavors.
1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini: Soft, stuffed pasta that carries sauce beautifully.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Enriches the sauce’s base with a creamy signature touch.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic sautéed for an aromatic backdrop.
1 cup heavy cream: The luscious foundation of the sauce’s velvety texture.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, salty richness and helps thicken the sauce.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little kick in their comfort food.
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish): Brings a brilliant pop of color and fresh herbal brightness.

How to Make Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add to the skillet with the sauce

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by giving your chicken breasts a flavorful makeover with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This simple but effective seasoning combo ensures every bite bursts with savory goodness that forms the foundation of the entire dish.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the seasoned chicken breasts. Let them cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side until they develop a gorgeous golden crust and are cooked through. The smell alone will make your mouth water! Once done, remove from the pan and set aside to rest—this is critical to keep the chicken juicy.

Step 3: Cook the Tortellini

While your chicken rests, bring a pot of salted water to boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to package directions. This pasta has a luxurious cheese filling that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce you’re about to make, so don’t skip this step. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Using the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat to capture all those fond flavors left by the chicken. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until it fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it thicken slightly, creating a velvety sauce that’s absolutely dreamy.

Step 5: Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add to the skillet with the sauce

Here’s a key moment for ultimate flavor blending: slice the cooked chicken into strips and add to the skillet with the sauce. This step allows the chicken to soak up that creamy garlic-Parmesan goodness, making every bite tender and flavorful. Then toss in the cooked tortellini, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Don’t forget to sprinkle in red pepper flakes if you want a subtle hint of heat!

How to Serve Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add to the skillet with the sauce

Garnishes

After you slice the cooked chicken into strips and add to the skillet with the sauce, finishing touches truly make the dish come alive. Fresh chopped basil provides a vibrant green contrast and a mild herbal freshness that complements the rich sauce perfectly. A little cracked black pepper on top is also a nice touch for an extra flavor boost.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with light, crisp side dishes to balance the creaminess. Think a simple mixed green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or some garlic roasted asparagus. Both add that fresh texture and brightness needed to round out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your tortellini and chicken in warm, shallow bowls that show off the luscious sauce and colorful basil garnish. For a cozy dinner or a date night in, light some candles and add crusty garlic bread on the side to mop up all the sauce. This presentation elevates a simple dish into an experience that feels special and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce can thicken as it rests, so just know it might need a little stirring and gentle reheating to bring it back to perfect consistency.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken and tortellini with the sauce, but be aware that the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing. Place the dish in a freezer-safe container and use within 1 month for best taste. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent separation. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it. Avoid high heat to keep the chicken tender and the sauce silky smooth.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of tortellini?

Absolutely! While cheese tortellini is perfect for this recipe’s creamy sauce, you can substitute with other stuffed pastas or even standard pasta shapes like penne or fettuccine. Just cook according to package instructions and toss it in the sauce as usual.

What if I don’t have heavy cream? Can I use something else?

Heavy cream gives this dish its rich, creamy texture, but you can substitute with half-and-half mixed with a tablespoon of butter, or coconut cream for a dairy-free option. The sauce might be slightly less thick, but still delicious.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken breasts should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking 5-6 minutes per side over medium-high heat typically does the trick. Also, juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink inside.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! Add more red pepper flakes according to your heat preference. You could also mix in a dash of cayenne pepper into the sauce for an extra kick that complements the creaminess.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping because it stores well and reheats beautifully. Prepare the chicken, sauce, and tortellini ahead and keep portions in individual containers for easy, delicious lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Once you slice the cooked chicken into strips and add to the skillet with the sauce, you’ve created a dish that combines comfort and elegance in every bite. Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is the kind of meal that feels like a celebration, perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself after a busy day. Trust me, once you try this, it will become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and get cooking—you’re about to enjoy one unforgettable dinner!