Hey there, friend! I just have to share my absolute favorite pasta dish with you: Creamy Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Pasta. This recipe truly holds a special place in my heart. It combines the creamy, dreamy flavors of Marry Me Chicken with tender tortellini—perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a romantic date night. My husband loves it, and I can’t tell you how many times he’s declared his love after enjoying this dish!
The best part? It comes together so quickly! You’ll be whisking up a deliciously creamy sauce that envelops the chicken and tortellini in such a comforting way. Just imagine the smell wafting through your kitchen as it simmers—it’s like a warm hug in every bite! I promise this meal will quickly become a family favorite. And if you’re looking for something to serve alongside it, my garlic bread recipe pairs perfectly!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Pasta
- Rich, creamy sauce that envelops the tortellini for ultimate comfort.
- Quick and easy recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Juicy chicken breast adds protein and heartiness to the dish.
- Fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes brighten up the flavors and colors.
- Optional red pepper flakes provide a perfect kick for spice lovers.
- Adaptable – swap chicken for shrimp or make it vegetarian as you like.
- Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing your special someone!
This delightful pasta dish is not only quick to prepare but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for date night or family meals!
How to Make Creamy Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Pasta
This creamy, comforting dish is a true crowd-pleaser! It’s perfect for a family dinner or a romantic night in, taking less than 30 minutes to whip up. Plus, who can resist the combination of chicken, cheese tortellini, and a rich, dreamy sauce?
What You’ll Need:
- Cheese tortellini – 2 cups. I prefer using fresh tortellini for a tender taste, but frozen works great too.
- Chicken breast – 1 lb, diced. Use organic chicken if you can; it just tends to be more flavorful.
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons. I love California Olive Ranch for its robust flavor.
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic packs a punch and elevates the dish.
- Cherry tomatoes – 1 cup, halved. They add a burst of sweetness; go for vibrant, ripe ones!
- Fresh spinach – 2 cups. You can play with this amount; more spinach is always a good idea!
- Heavy cream – 1 cup. I like Horizon Organic heavy cream for its richness and texture.
- Grated Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup. Always go for freshly grated if you can – it melts beautifully.
- Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon. A blend of herbs brings that classic Italian flavor.
- Salt and pepper – to taste. These are essential to really bring the flavors alive.
- Fresh basil – for garnish. It adds color and a fragrant finish.
- Optional: Red pepper flakes – for a touch of heat if you like a spicy kick!
The Directions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast, and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute until it’s fragrant—this is where the magic begins!
- Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften, releasing their sweetness into the dish.
- Lower the heat a bit and pour in the heavy cream, letting it simmer for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly.
- Add the cooked tortellini and fresh spinach to the skillet. Toss everything together so the spinach wilts nicely—what a vibrant color!
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and makes the dish creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if desired.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Notes: You can swap the chicken for shrimp or keep it vegetarian if you prefer! This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or some warm garlic bread. Enjoy cooking and savor the deliciousness! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works beautifully in this recipe. Just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time when boiling them until they’re al dente. Make sure to drain them well before adding them to the skillet!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich, so you might want to add a bit more Parmesan for creaminess!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the pasta gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens up.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily turn this into a vegetarian meal! Simply omit the chicken and replace it with extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also add a can of white beans for added protein!
