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- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth - 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped - 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese The main ingredients of Marry Me Chicken Tortellini create a hearty meal. The chicken provides protein, while the tortellini adds a delightful chew. The cherry tomatoes and spinach bring freshness to the dish. The heavy cream and chicken broth create a rich sauce that ties everything together. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish Seasoning is key for great flavor. I use garlic powder and Italian seasoning to enhance the chicken. Salt and pepper bring balance. Fresh basil leaves not only look pretty but add a burst of flavor to the final dish. - Additional veggies like bell peppers or zucchini - Alternative cheeses such as mozzarella or goat cheese You can customize the dish with optional ingredients. Adding more veggies makes it colorful and healthy. Different cheeses can change the taste and texture. So don’t hesitate to get creative with your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini! {{ingredient_image_2}} Seasoning Techniques Start by seasoning your chicken breasts. Use garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Make sure to cover both sides well. This step adds a lot of flavor. Cooking Time and Temperature Heat extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the chicken in the pan. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color and ensure it's cooked through. After cooking, let the chicken rest on a cutting board. Slice it into strips after a few minutes. Timing for Tomatoes In the same skillet, add halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes. You want them to soften and release their juices. This step builds a rich flavor base. Incorporating Cream and Broth Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir gently until it simmers lightly. The cream will thicken the sauce and add richness. Cooking Instructions Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir until it wilts. Now, add the cheese tortellini. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually 3-5 minutes. Aim for al dente for the best texture. Combining Ingredients for Final Dish Once the tortellini is ready, return the sliced chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until it combines well and looks creamy. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning as needed. Achieving the Right Texture To get great chicken, start with tender breasts. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken. This makes cooking easier. Season both sides with garlic powder and Italian seasoning for good flavor. Cook in olive oil until golden brown. This gives a nice crust. Ensuring Juiciness To keep chicken juicy, don’t overcook it. The chicken needs about 6-7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer; the inside should reach 165°F. Let the chicken rest after cooking. This helps keep the juices inside. Thicker vs. Creamier Sauce You can make your sauce thick or creamy. For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer. This reduces the liquid. For a creamier sauce, add more heavy cream. This adds richness and depth. Adjusting Flavors Taste your sauce as you cook. If it needs more flavor, add salt or pepper. Fresh herbs can also boost taste. Taste again after adding ingredients. Adjust until it’s just right for you. Best Side Dishes Serve Marry Me Chicken Tortellini with a simple salad. A side of garlic bread pairs well too. You can also try steamed veggies for a healthy touch. These sides complement the dish nicely. Wine Pairings A light white wine works great with this dish. A Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the flavors. If you prefer red, try a light Pinot Noir. These wines make a lovely match. Pro Tips Rest the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain its juices, ensuring a tender and flavorful result. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful touch to your dish. Consider adding it just before serving for the best aroma. Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can replace half of the heavy cream with more chicken broth for a balanced flavor and consistency. Perfect Tortellini: Make sure to cook the tortellini until al dente, as they will continue to cook when combined with the hot sauce, preventing them from becoming too soft. {{image_4}} You can switch up the protein in Marry Me Chicken Tortellini for a fun twist. - Using Shrimp or Sausage: Shrimp cooks fast and adds a light touch. Use large shrimp and sauté them for about 3-4 minutes. If you prefer sausage, choose Italian sausage. Slice it and brown it in the skillet. Both options will still give you a creamy dish. - Vegetarian Options: For a meat-free meal, replace chicken with hearty veggies. Use mushrooms for a meaty feel or chickpeas for protein. Tofu, when seasoned well, can also soak up all the flavors. Adding your favorite spices can make this dish pop. - Adding Spices: A pinch of red pepper flakes brings heat. Try smoked paprika for a deep, smoky taste. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano will also brighten the flavor. - Incorporating Different Vegetables: Feel free to add more veggies. Bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli work great. Sauté them with the tomatoes for extra color and nutrition. Making this dish fit your dietary needs is easy. - Gluten-Free Tortellini: Look for gluten-free tortellini at stores. Many brands offer tasty options that cook just like regular ones. - Dairy-Free Alternatives: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy. For short-term storage, keep your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents drying out. Make sure to cool the dish to room temperature before sealing it. This step helps maintain texture and flavors. If you want to save some for later, you can freeze it. First, let the dish cool completely. Then, pack it in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. This will help it last longer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, place it in a skillet on low heat. Stir gently until warm. You can also reheat it in the microwave. Just be sure to cover it to avoid drying out. Marry Me Chicken Tortellini stays fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. When stored correctly, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Look for signs of spoilage, like an off smell or mold. If you see any, it's best to toss it. Enjoy your meal and keep it safe! Yes, you can prepare Marry Me Chicken Tortellini ahead of time. For meal prep, follow these best practices: - Cook the chicken and shred or slice it. You can store it in the fridge. - Prepare the sauce and tortellini. Store them separately to keep the flavors fresh. - Combine everything just before serving. This keeps the tortellini from getting soggy. This dish tastes great even after a day in the fridge. Just reheat gently to avoid overcooking the tortellini. If you need a substitute for heavy cream, you have several options: - Half-and-half: This will give you a creamy texture but with less fat. - Greek yogurt: Use it for a healthier twist. Mix it with milk for a smoother consistency. - Coconut milk: This adds a unique flavor and is dairy-free. Each option will change the taste slightly, so choose based on your preference. To add some heat and flavor to your dish, try these tips: - Red pepper flakes: Sprinkle these into the sauce for a kick. - Sriracha or hot sauce: Stir it in slowly to taste, adding heat without overwhelming the dish. - Spicy Italian sausage: Substitute this for the chicken for a meaty, spicy flavor. Adjust the spice level to your liking. A little goes a long way! Yes, using store-bought tortellini is a great option. Here are the pros and cons: - Pros: - Saves time: No need to make tortellini from scratch. - Variety: Many flavors are available, like cheese or spinach. - Cons: - Quality: Some brands may lack freshness. - Texture: Homemade tortellini often has a better bite. Choose a brand you trust. Fresh or frozen tortellini works well in this recipe! This recipe brings together chicken, tortellini, and rich sauce for a delightful dish. You can easily customize it with spices, herbs, and veggie options. With clear steps for prepping, cooking, and serving, you'll master this meal in no time. Plus, I shared tips for perfect texture and sauce consistency. Whether you want variations or storage advice, this guide has you covered. Enjoy your cooking journey, and impress your family and friends with your new skills!

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

A creamy and flavorful chicken tortellini dish that is sure to impress.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped
  • 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
  • 0.5 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • for garnish Fresh basil leaves

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, ensuring a good flavor layer.
  • Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
  • Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices. Follow by pouring in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring gently until the mixture begins to simmer lightly.
  • Add Spinach & Tortellini: Incorporate the chopped spinach leaves into the skillet and stir until they wilt. Next, add the cheese tortellini, cooking them according to the package instructions until they reach an al dente texture, usually 3-5 minutes.
  • Combine and Finish: Once the tortellini is cooked, return the sliced chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir everything together until well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper to your preference.
  • Serve: Carefully plate the tortellini mixture, ensuring each dish has a generous amount of chicken and sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish and a splash of color.

Notes

Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce and garnish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a few pine nuts for added texture.
Keyword chicken, creamy, pasta, tortellini