There’s a dish so delicious and irresistible that it’s rumored to inspire proposals. Yes, we’re talking about Marry Me Chicken Tortellini. This creamy, savory, and flavor-packed meal is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself to a restaurant-worthy dinner at home, this dish is guaranteed to steal the spotlight—and maybe even a few hearts.
Why Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Is a Must-Try
Imagine tender chicken, crispy bacon, and cheese-filled tortellini tossed in a luxurious cream sauce with sundried tomatoes and Parmesan. It’s rich, satisfying, and layered with flavors that come together seamlessly. The name isn’t just catchy—it reflects the dish’s ability to wow anyone lucky enough to taste it.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Here’s everything you need to make this decadent dish:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Thick-cut bacon slices | 4 |
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 2 (8 oz each) |
| Ground black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Kosher salt | 1 ¼ teaspoons |
| Sundried tomatoes in oil | ¾ cup (drained) |
| Shallot (finely chopped) | ½ cup |
| Garlic cloves (finely chopped) | 4 |
| Italian seasoning | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Crushed red pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Chicken broth (low-sodium) | ½ cup |
| Heavy whipping cream | 1 cup |
| Cheese tortellini (refrigerated) | 20 oz package |
| Parmesan cheese (pre-grated) | ½ cup + more for garnish |
| Fresh basil leaves (torn) | For garnish |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather and measure all your ingredients. This ensures the cooking process is smooth and stress-free.
2. Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s crispy and rendered, about 8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving about 3 tablespoons of drippings in the skillet.
3. Season and Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with ¼ teaspoon salt and ground black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet with the bacon drippings and cook over medium-high heat for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 10 minutes before chopping it into bite-sized pieces.
4. Sauté the Aromatics
Reduce the heat to medium and add the sundried tomatoes and chopped shallot to the skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring often, until the shallot softens. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and remaining 1 teaspoon of salt. Cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
5. Create the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, letting the flavor deepen. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly, about 3 to 5 minutes.
6. Cook the Tortellini
While the sauce simmers, boil a large pot of salted water and cook the tortellini according to the package instructions (about 3 to 5 minutes, or until the tortellini float to the surface). Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
7. Combine Everything
Add the cooked tortellini, chopped chicken, and crispy bacon to the skillet with the cream sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and toss until the tortellini is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta cooking water, ¼ cup at a time, until you achieve the desired consistency.
8. Garnish and Serve
Divide the dish among six bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy the compliments!
Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
- Choose Fresh Tortellini: Refrigerated tortellini cooks faster and has a better texture compared to dried versions.
- Don’t Skip the Bacon Drippings: The rendered fat adds depth to the dish’s flavor.
- Use High-Quality Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enhances the overall taste.
- Adjust Spice Level: For a milder version, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values per serving (based on 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 510 |
| Protein | 33g |
| Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Fat | 31g |
| Saturated Fat | 14g |
| Sodium | 870mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 4g |
This dish is indulgent but balanced, offering a great mix of protein, carbs, and fats.
Why Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Is Perfect for Any Occasion
From romantic dinners to family gatherings, this dish fits any setting:
- Date Night: The creamy, luxurious sauce makes it feel like a restaurant-quality meal.
- Family Dinner: It’s kid-friendly and easy to customize for picky eaters.
- Special Occasions: Impress guests with a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
- Meal Prep: Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it ideal for busy weeks.
Creative Variations to Try
1. Vegetarian Version
Swap the chicken and bacon for sautéed mushrooms and additional vegetables like zucchini or spinach.
2. Spicy Marinara Twist
Replace the cream with marinara sauce and add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy, tomato-based version.
3. Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure the bacon and broth are gluten-free.
4. Extra Cheesy Tortellini
Add shredded mozzarella or fontina cheese for an even creamier and cheesier dish.
FAQs About Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
1. Can I use dried tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Yes, but dried tortellini takes longer to cook, and you may need to adjust the sauce consistency.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Reheat gently and cook the tortellini just before serving.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
4. Can I freeze this dish?
The sauce and chicken freeze well, but tortellini may become mushy. If freezing, prepare the sauce separately and cook the tortellini fresh when ready to serve.
5. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, fettuccine, or ravioli are excellent substitutes for tortellini.
6. How do I make it lighter?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a lighter version.
Final Thoughts: Your New Favorite Recipe
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and rich flavors, it’s a meal that’s guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
So gather your ingredients, tie on your apron, and get ready to create a dish that’s as romantic as it is delicious. Who knows? It might just earn you a marriage proposal—or at least a round of applause!
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Marry Me Chicken Tortellini: A Romantic Twist on Comfort Food
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Rich, creamy, and loaded with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables, Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for chilly days, family dinners, or meal prep, this recipe is hearty, wholesome, and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, shredded
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast, cubed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 16 oz mini potato gnocchi
- 6 oz baby spinach leaves
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cold water (optional)
- 2 cups half-and-half cream
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Dice the onion and celery, mince the garlic, shred the carrots, and cube the cooked chicken.
- Cook Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Add Chicken and Broth: Stir in the cooked chicken and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the pot and let it cook for 3–4 minutes, or until the gnocchi floats to the top.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the baby spinach leaves and cook for 2–3 minutes, until the spinach wilts.
- Thicken the Soup (Optional): For a thicker soup, whisk cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Stir the mixture into the soup and cook until slightly thickened.
- Add Cream: Pour in the half-and-half cream and stir gently. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to warm through.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper to your preference. Ladle into bowls and serve hot.
Notes
- Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute the half-and-half with coconut milk or a plant-based cream.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid curdling.
- Freeze Friendly: Freeze the soup without the cream. Add the cream after reheating for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
