If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, indulgence, and a burst of flavor, the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini might just become your new favorite. Inspired by the popular Marry Me Chicken recipe, this version elevates the classic with tender, cheesy tortellini and a creamy, rich sauce packed with crispy bacon, sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly seasoned chicken. The name says it all—this dish is so good, it might just lead to a marriage proposal! Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress with its decadent flavors and easy preparation.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 (9-ounce) package cheese tortellini
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Tortellini:
- Fill a large saucepan with salted water and bring it to a boil over high heat.
- Cook the Bacon:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crispy, which will take about 8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave about 3 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the skillet.
- Cook the Chicken:
- While the bacon is cooking, season the chicken breasts evenly with black pepper and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Add the chicken to the skillet with the reserved bacon drippings. Cook over medium-high heat until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side (ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F). Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for about 10 minutes. Once cooled, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Sauce:
- Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and shallot, cooking for about 2 minutes until softened. Add the garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and remaining 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir constantly for 30 seconds, then add the tomato paste and continue cooking for about 1 minute until the mixture deepens in color.
- Deglaze the Pan:
- Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and cook while stirring and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Cook for about 1 minute. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Cook the Tortellini:
- While the sauce is simmering, add the tortellini to the boiling water. Boil the tortellini until tender and they float to the surface, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Drain the tortellini and reserve 1 cup of the cooking water.
- Combine and Finish:
- Stir the grated Parmesan cheese, cooked bacon, chopped chicken, and tortellini into the skillet with the cream sauce. Cook while stirring and tossing everything together until evenly coated. Add reserved cooking water, 1/4 cup at a time, as needed to keep the sauce creamy.
- Serve:
- Divide the dish among bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Enjoy!
Recipe Background:
The Marry Me Chicken dish became an internet sensation due to its simple yet irresistibly flavorful combination of tender chicken and a rich, creamy sauce. The idea behind the name is that the dish is so delicious, anyone who tastes it might be inclined to propose! This Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe takes that concept to the next level by incorporating cheese-filled tortellini, adding even more texture and flavor to the original dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Rich and Creamy: The sauce is a dreamy combination of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes, perfectly balanced with a hint of garlic and Italian herbs.
- Cheesy Tortellini: Adding tortellini gives this recipe a unique twist, turning it from a standard chicken dish into a hearty, pasta-filled delight.
- Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet taste, this recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare and comes together in under 45 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or that special someone, this dish never fails to impress. The combination of flavors and textures creates a truly unforgettable meal.
Customizations:
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, simply omit the chicken and bacon, and replace them with sautéed mushrooms or your favorite vegetables. The creamy sauce will still carry plenty of flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of extra crushed red pepper flakes for more heat if you enjoy spicy dishes.
- Different Protein: You can also swap the chicken with shrimp or pork to create a different version of this dish. Each variation brings a unique flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this indulgent dish with a light side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness. Garlic bread also makes a great accompaniment, allowing you to soak up every last drop of the creamy sauce.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Tortellini may absorb some sauce while in the fridge, so adding liquid will help maintain consistency.
Perfect For:
- Date Night: This recipe is ideal for impressing that special someone. The combination of flavors and textures will create a memorable dining experience.
- Family Dinners: Its comforting, creamy nature makes it a hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring that everyone around the table will leave satisfied.
- Celebratory Meals: Whether it’s an anniversary, birthday, or even a proposal (true to its name!), this dish fits the bill for celebratory occasions.
The Origin of Marry Me Chicken:
The original Marry Me Chicken became popular for its simple yet extraordinary combination of ingredients. Legend has it that its mouthwatering flavors are so irresistible, they could inspire a marriage proposal after just one bite—hence the playful name. It’s a recipe known for its indulgent, comforting nature, with chicken cooked in a creamy sauce featuring garlic, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes. This updated version with tortellini adds an extra layer of decadence by incorporating pillowy, cheese-filled pasta, transforming the original dish into a full meal that requires nothing more than a light side to complete.
Ingredients Spotlight:
- Chicken: This recipe uses boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which cook quickly and stay juicy when cooked properly. You can also substitute chicken thighs for a more tender, flavorful cut.
- Tortellini: Cheese tortellini brings a rich, cheesy element to the dish, making it more filling and adding an Italian-inspired twist. You can opt for refrigerated or frozen tortellini, depending on availability.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These tomatoes pack a punch of umami and sweetness, adding complexity to the sauce. Their slight chewiness contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce and tender tortellini.
- Bacon: The addition of crispy bacon introduces a smoky flavor and texture contrast that elevates the dish. The rendered bacon fat also serves as a flavorful base for cooking the chicken and aromatics.
- Garlic and Shallots: These classic aromatics form the flavor foundation of the sauce. The shallots bring a mild sweetness, while garlic offers a savory depth that complements the creaminess of the sauce.
- Cream and Parmesan: The sauce’s richness comes from heavy cream, with Parmesan cheese adding both creaminess and a salty, nutty flavor.
Cooking Tips and Techniques:
- Crisping the Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy, allowing the fat to render out. Use this flavorful bacon fat to cook the chicken, adding layers of flavor to the dish from the very start.
- Deglazing the Pan: After cooking the chicken and aromatics, deglaze the pan with chicken broth to capture all the browned bits (fond) left on the bottom. This step intensifies the sauce and prevents anything from sticking or burning.
- Simmering for Creamy Perfection: Once you add the cream and Parmesan, simmer the sauce gently to allow it to thicken. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the cream to break. Stir frequently to maintain a smooth, velvety texture.
- Tortellini Cooking: When boiling tortellini, it’s important to keep an eye on them. They cook quickly—within just 3 to 5 minutes—and are done when they float to the surface. Overcooking can cause the pasta to become mushy, so be sure to check early.
- Adjusting Sauce Consistency: If your sauce thickens too much, use some of the reserved pasta cooking water to thin it out. The starchy water helps keep the sauce creamy without diluting the flavor.
- Garnishing for Freshness: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil at the end adds a burst of color and freshness to balance the rich, creamy elements of the dish. You can also add a little freshly ground black pepper or even a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra layer of flavor.
Dietary Modifications:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini or substitute with another gluten-free pasta of your choice. Make sure to check that your bacon, broth, and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, replace the cheese tortellini with plain pasta, and use a dairy-free cream and vegan Parmesan alternative. The flavors will still shine through!
- Keto-Friendly: Skip the tortellini and serve the chicken and sauce over sautéed zucchini noodles or steamed vegetables for a lower-carb option that’s still rich and satisfying.
Variations to Try:
- Creamy Pesto Chicken Tortellini: Add a couple of tablespoons of pesto to the sauce for a herby, vibrant twist. The basil and pine nuts in the pesto will complement the creaminess beautifully.
- Mushroom & Spinach Chicken Tortellini: For a vegetable-packed version, sauté mushrooms and spinach alongside the sun-dried tomatoes. These vegetables will absorb the sauce, adding earthy, savory notes to the dish.
- Spicy Chicken Tortellini: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a diced chili pepper for a spicy kick. Pair this heat with a side of garlic bread to balance the flavors.
Perfect Occasions for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini:
- Date Night In: This recipe is an excellent choice for a cozy, romantic dinner at home. Its rich and indulgent flavors are restaurant-quality, yet it’s easy enough to make in your own kitchen.
- Family Gatherings: If you’re hosting a family dinner, this dish can be easily scaled up to serve a crowd. It’s comforting and filling, making it a perfect main course for both adults and kids.
- Holiday Meals: Serve this dish during the holidays for a hearty, flavorful meal that contrasts nicely with more traditional fare. The cheese tortellini and creamy sauce offer a festive, indulgent touch.
Conclusion:
The Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is more than just a meal—it’s a full dining experience that brings together the best elements of comfort food with a gourmet touch. Its creamy, flavorful sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy tortellini create a dish that feels both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re looking to impress a loved one, celebrate a special occasion, or simply treat yourself to something rich and delicious, this recipe will never disappoint. Easy to make yet full of flavor, it’s the perfect go-to for weeknight dinners, date nights, or any time you want to elevate your meal. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again—because after all, who could say no to a dish that’s known to inspire love at first bite?
