There’s something truly magical about a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, and Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is just that! Imagine the rich aroma of creamy cheese mingling with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and vibrant spinach, creating a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate. This one-pan wonder comes together in just 27 minutes, making it the ultimate weeknight meal for those busy evenings when you crave comfort but refuse to compromise on taste.
Whether you're planning a cozy dinner for two or aiming to impress a crowd, this creamy dish guarantees satisfied smiles around the table. Plus, its versatility means you can customize it to suit everyone's preferences, all while saving time and energy in the kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to whip up a meal that might just make someone say, "Will you marry me?"-because who can resist this deliciousness?
Why is Marry Me Chicken Tortellini a Must-Try?
Comforting, Creamy Goodness: This dish combines a rich foundation of creamy cheese and succulent chicken that envelops every bite in warmth.
Quick Preparation: Whipping this up takes just 27 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal in a flash.
Versatile Customization: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or swap cheeses to suit your family’s tastes, making every dish uniquely yours.
Crowd-Pleaser: With its vibrant colors and hearty flavors, it's guaranteed to impress both family and guests alike, sparking joy at the dinner table!
One-Pan Wonder: Cleanup is a breeze since everything is cooked in a single pan, leaving you more time to relax after dinner.
Endless Possibilities: Want a spicier twist? Just add some jalapeños or hot sauce for that extra kick! Try serving it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
For the Sauce
Sun-Dried Tomatoes - Adds a tangy depth of flavor; fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers can be a great substitute.
Mushrooms - Provide umami and texture; use cremini or button mushrooms, or omit if you’re not a fan.
Garlic - Enhances overall flavor profile; fresh garlic yields the best taste, while garlic powder is a quick alternative.
Butter - Forms the base for the creamy sauce; feel free to use margarine for a dairy-free option.
Flour - Thickens the sauce; gluten-free flour can be seamlessly substituted.
Italian Seasoning - A blend of herbs that elevates flavor; individual herbs like basil and oregano can be used instead.
Paprika - Offers a subtle smoky taste; sweet paprika or chili powder can work in its place.
Red Pepper Flakes - Provides heat; simply omit for a mild dish.
Milk - Creates the creamy texture; plant-based milk is an excellent dairy-free choice.
Chicken Broth - Adds depth to the sauce; vegetable broth makes for a great vegetarian option.
Parmesan Cheese - Introduces richness and flavor; nutritional yeast is a good dairy-free substitute.
For the Main Ingredients
Rotisserie Chicken - Convenient and flavorful; you may use any cooked chicken or leftover grilled chicken.
Tortellini - The base carbohydrate; either fresh or frozen works well. Consider gluten-free tortellini if needed.
Spinach - Adds nutrients and vibrant color; feel free to replace it with kale or other leafy greens.
This Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is designed to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds in a delightful and uncomplicated way!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Preheat your oven to 425°F and adjust the oven rack to the middle position. This step ensures even cooking for your delicious one-pan meal.
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil from sun-dried tomatoes in a large, oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. This will serve as the flavorful base for your dish.
Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they soften. Then, introduce the sun-dried tomatoes and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then remove the mixture from the pan and set aside for later.
Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in the same pan, then whisk in flour until smooth, cooking for 1-2 minutes. This will create a creamy foundation for your sauce.
Combine Italian seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Gradually pour in milk and chicken broth while whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened.
Lower the heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted, creating a rich, creamy sauce.
Return the vegetable mixture to the pan, then add rotisserie chicken, tortellini, and chopped spinach, stirring until well combined.
Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 8 minutes, then stir and press it into an even layer. Sprinkle any remaining Parmesan on top and bake for an additional 3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Remove from the oven, season to taste, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve immediately for a dinner that dazzles!
Optional: For extra flavor, drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Chicken Tortellini are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prep the creamy sauce and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance to save time. Simply store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, combine the prepped elements with cooked rotisserie chicken, tortellini, and spinach, then proceed to bake. To maintain the creaminess, add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much while refrigerated, ensuring it's just as delicious as when freshly made. This way, you can enjoy a comforting, home-cooked meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Don't Overcook Tortellini: Maintain the perfect texture by monitoring the cooking time closely; overcooked tortellini can become mushy.
Mind the Salt: Be cautious when adding salt to your dish. Chicken broth and Parmesan cheese can already be quite salty, so taste first!
Revive Leftovers: To avoid a dry reheat, add a splash of milk when warming up leftovers of Marry Me Chicken Tortellini to restore that creamy goodness.
Customize Veggies: Feel free to switch up the vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus can be delightful additions that increase nutrition and flavor.
Experiment with Cheeses: Don't be afraid to try different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for a unique twist on the creamy sauce, making each experience a new delight.
Prep in Advance: You can chop your vegetables and prepare your ingredients ahead of time, making it even faster to whip up this delicious dish on a busy night.
Variations & Substitutions for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
This dish is your canvas-feel free to personalize it to suit your cravings and dietary needs while enjoying every comforting bite!
Vegetable Mix: Substitute with bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for added nutrition and crunch. Each twist brings a fresh vibrancy to your dish!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to heat things up. A little spice will contrast beautifully with the creaminess of the sauce.
Cheese Swap: Experiment with gouda or mozzarella instead of Parmesan for a unique twist. This enhances flavor and makes the sauce even more delightful!
Dairy-Free Delight: Use dairy-free butter and plant-based milk for a creamy yet lactose-free version. It's a great way to accommodate guests with dietary restrictions.
Gluten-Free Upgrade: Opt for gluten-free flour and tortellini to turn this dish into a celiac-safe option. No one will be able to tell the difference, trust us!
Protein Boost: Add cooked shrimp or sausage for an extra protein punch. It’ll create a hearty dish that’s perfect for more substantial appetites.
Herb Infusion: Replace Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like basil or thyme to elevate the dish’s aromatics and freshness. A sprinkle of fresh herbs will brighten each bite!
Veggie-Only: For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and increase the vegetables. You may also want to add some chickpeas or lentils for a protein boost.
With these variations, the possibilities are endless! Each appetizing twist lets you create a unique experience every time you prepare this beloved dish.
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days; ensure it’s cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Consider portioning it out for easy reheating later.
Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat in the oven or microwave. Add a splash of milk to restore creaminess, as the sauce may thicken during storage.
Room Temperature: It's best to avoid leaving Marry Me Chicken Tortellini at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?
Imagine a cozy dinner setting enhanced by delightful side dishes that perfectly complement the creamy richness of Marry Me Chicken Tortellini.
Garlic Bread: This warm, crispy delight not only soaks up all that creamy sauce but also adds an aromatic touch to your meal. The buttery, garlicky flavors pair beautifully with the richness of the pasta.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy tortellini, enhancing your dining experience. Plus, it’s quick to assemble and adds vibrant color to the table.
Roasted Vegetables: Flavorful seasonal vegetables provide a hearty yet healthy addition to your meal, assisting in balancing the richness of the pasta. Roasting brings out natural sugars, creating a delightful sweetness that pairs well.
Steamed Asparagus: The tender crispness of asparagus not only adds elegance but also offers a subtle earthiness that complements the dish’s creamy flavor. A squeeze of lemon over them brightens the entire plate!
White Wine: A chilled glass of sauvignon blanc adds a touch of elegance, its crispness cutting through the creamy dish beautifully. This pairing elevates the mealtime experience, making it truly special.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, opt for a light and airy chocolate mousse that contrasts nicely with the hearty entrée. A satisfyingly sweet finish makes for a balanced evening, leaving everyone smiling!
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Recipe FAQs
How should I select ripe ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?
Absolutely! For the freshest flavors, choose sun-dried tomatoes that look moist and vibrant, avoiding any that appear dried out or hard. When selecting mushrooms, look for firm caps without dark spots. Fresh garlic should feel firm, and the skin should be dry, not sprouted.
How long can Marry Me Chicken Tortellini be stored in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain optimal freshness and prevent moisture buildup.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, and if so, how?
Yes! Marry Me Chicken Tortellini can be frozen for up to 2 months. Pour the dish into a freezer-safe container, allowing it to cool completely before doing so. For easy reheating later, consider portioning it into single-serving containers. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce thickened too much, don't worry! Simply add a splash of milk or chicken broth gradually while stirring over low heat until you reach the desired consistency. This will restore that creamy texture you love in the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini.
Are there any dietary considerations when making this recipe?
Certainly! For allergy-friendly versions, you can substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. If gluten is a concern, use gluten-free flour and tortellini. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they align with your dietary needs.
Can I add more vegetables to the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?
Very! Feel free to throw in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even kale. Just sauté them alongside the mushrooms to infuse that delightful flavor, ensuring you’re creating a dish that everyone will enjoy while also packing in extra nutrients!
Creamy Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and adjust the oven rack to the middle position.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil from sun-dried tomatoes in a large, oven-safe pan over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 2–3 minutes, then add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then set aside.
- Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in the same pan, whisk in flour until smooth, cooking for 1–2 minutes.
- Combine Italian seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Gradually pour in milk and chicken broth while whisking continuously.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Lower the heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Return the vegetable mixture to the pan, then add rotisserie chicken, tortellini, and spinach, stirring until well combined.
- Bake for 8 minutes, stir, then press into an even layer and sprinkle remaining Parmesan on top. Bake for an additional 3 minutes until bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, season to taste, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve immediately.
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