Name: Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated); 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), chopped; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines the irresistible flavors of creamy garlic sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and seasoned chicken with cheese-stuffed tortellini for a restaurant-quality meal at home. It’s quick enough for weeknights but fancy enough for special occasions. The balance of savory, tangy, and creamy makes every bite unforgettable—and it’s all made in one pan for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Salt and pepper
Italian seasoning
Olive oil
Garlic
Sun-dried tomatoes (in oil)
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Grated Parmesan cheese
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sear the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and slice or cube.
In the same skillet, sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
Add the cooked tortellini and gently mix until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
Garnish with chopped basil or parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4. Prep time is approximately 15 minutes, and cook time is about 25 minutes. The total time to make this dish is around 40 minutes.

Variations

Spinach addition: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach at the end for extra color and nutrients.
Mushroom twist: Add sautéed mushrooms for a savory boost.
Low-carb option: Swap the tortellini for spiralized zucchini or cauliflower gnocchi.
Extra spicy: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
Different pasta: Use penne, rigatoni, or ravioli if tortellini isn’t available.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the cream sauce and pasta texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, just cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the sauce.

What’s the best chicken to use?

Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Thighs will add more flavor and stay juicier.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add more veggies like spinach or mushrooms for heartiness.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce may be slightly thinner and less rich.

Do I have to use sun-dried tomatoes?

They add a lot of flavor, but you can substitute with roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes if preferred.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If making ahead, keep the tortellini and sauce separate and combine just before serving.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s mildly spicy if you include the red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust the heat level or omit the spice entirely.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just add it to the sauce to warm through after slicing or shredding.

How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?

Add a bit more broth or cream while reheating or just before serving if the sauce thickens too much.

What pairs well with this dish?

A simple green salad or garlic bread complements the rich flavors perfectly.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a dreamy, creamy, and flavor-packed dish that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s the kind of meal that wins hearts and keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is always a good idea.