Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a creamy, comforting pasta dish with tender chicken pieces and cheesy tortellini all bathed in a luscious tomato cream sauce. It’s one of those meals that combines rich flavors with simple ingredients, making it perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner without the fuss.
I love making this dish because it feels fancy enough to impress but comes together quickly, which is a win in my book. The sauce has just the right amount of spice and creaminess, and the tortellini add a soft, chewy surprise in every bite. I always find myself sneaking a spoonful of the sauce before everything’s plated—just to make sure it’s perfect.
My favorite way to serve Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad. It’s such a satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles and full bellies. Honestly, once you try it, you might just want to make it a spot on your regular dinner rotation!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: I like using boneless, skinless pieces to keep the dish light and easy to eat. You can swap with thighs for more flavor and juiciness but cook a bit longer.
Cheese tortellini: Fresh tortellini melts easily into the sauce and feels delicate. Frozen works well too if fresh isn’t available. For a lighter option, try whole wheat or spinach tortellini.
Heavy cream: This creates the rich, smooth sauce. If you want a lighter version, half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk can work, though the texture changes slightly.
Crushed tomatoes: Choose good quality canned tomatoes for depth of flavor. If you prefer a milder sauce, substitute with tomato sauce or puree.
Parmesan cheese: It adds salty, nutty richness. You can swap for Pecorino Romano or Asiago if you want a sharper flavor.
How Do You Make the Creamy Sauce Without It Breaking or Curdling?
The sauce combines cream with tomatoes, which can sometimes separate or curdle if heated too quickly. Here’s how to avoid that:
- Cook garlic gently first, don’t let it brown or burn.
- Add cream and broth slowly, stirring well to combine before heating further.
- Simmer gently on low-medium heat to thicken the sauce without boiling hard.
- Stir often and keep the heat steady to prevent the cream from breaking.
- Add cheese off the heat or with gentle warmth so it melts smoothly into the sauce.
Patience with gentle heat helps create a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to chicken and tortellini.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking chicken and making the sauce all in one pan without extra dishes.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – helps you stir the sauce gently without scratching your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your cream, broth, and seasonings just right.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for easy slicing of chicken and chopping fresh herbs.
- Colander – handy if you want to boil frozen tortellini separately.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked Italian sausage for a spicier, heartier flavor.
- Add fresh spinach or kale toward the end for a boost of color and nutrition.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes for a sweeter, tangy twist.
- Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella for extra cheesy, melty goodness.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken and Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
For The Pasta:
- 1 package (about 9 oz or 250g) cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at roughly 25 minutes total from start to finish. It’s a quick, comforting meal ready in under half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through — about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Make the Sauce:
Using the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and crushed tomatoes. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. Add red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning for flavor. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until it slightly thickens.
3. Cook the Tortellini and Finish the Dish:
Add the cheese tortellini directly to the sauce in the skillet. Cook according to package instructions (typically 3 to 5 minutes for fresh tortellini, a bit longer if frozen), stirring occasionally so it doesn’t stick. Once the tortellini is tender, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and blends into the sauce. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh chopped basil or parsley. Serve hot with extra Parmesan if you like!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and prevents extra moisture from watering down the sauce.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter option, try using half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk, but keep in mind the sauce might be less rich and slightly different in texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat while stirring occasionally, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a meat-free version that’s still flavorful and satisfying.
