Intro

I’ll never forget the first time I made my homemade Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe. It was one of those evenings where I wanted to create something comforting yet elegant, a dish that would make anyone sitting at my table feel instantly at home.

As the aroma of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce wafted through my kitchen, I knew this was going to be a recipe I’d treasure forever.

The tender chicken, pillowy tortellini, and luscious sauce created a harmony of flavors that felt almost romantic on a plate. And trust me, once you taste this, you’ll understand why it’s called “Marry Me Chicken”—it’s pure love in a dish.

This easy Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, date nights, or even when you just want to treat yourself to something indulgent. Rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor, it’s a classic comfort dish that never fails to impress.

What is Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a luxurious twist on the beloved Italian-American classic, Marry Me Chicken. Traditionally, the dish features tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, garlicky sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs.

In this version, we elevate it by adding cheese-filled tortellini, making every bite a combination of cheesy pasta and savory chicken, enveloped in a velvety sauce.

What sets this dish apart is the balance of flavors: the slight tang of sun-dried tomatoes, the richness of heavy cream, the subtle heat from crushed red pepper flakes, and the aromatic burst of fresh basil and thyme.

Every forkful is a mix of textures—tender chicken, soft tortellini, and silky sauce that clings beautifully to every ingredient.

This homemade Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is versatile, comforting, and sophisticated all at once. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or impressing a special someone, it’s guaranteed to become a go-to recipe.

Equipment List

To make this classic Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, gather the following tools:

Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board and sharp knife
Colander (for draining tortellini)
Tongs or slotted spoon
Cheese grater (if using block Parmesan)
Serving plates or bowls

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this easy Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
1 (9–12 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, for garnish

Optional ingredients for extra flavor:

1/4 cup white wine (for deglazing)
1/2 cup baby spinach (for added freshness)
2 tablespoons butter (to enrich the sauce)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside. This initial sear locks in flavor and creates a beautiful crust.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth or white wine, scraping up all the browned bits from the bottom. These bits are packed with flavor and form the base of your rich, creamy sauce.

Step 3: Add Cream and Cheese

Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and dried Italian herbs. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes silky. You’ll notice a luxurious aroma and a smooth, velvety texture that’s irresistible.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

Add the cheese tortellini directly to the sauce. Cover and simmer until the tortellini is tender, about 4–5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The tortellini will soak up some of the flavorful sauce, making each bite cheesy and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy tortellini. Let everything cook together for 3–4 minutes so the chicken finishes cooking and absorbs the sauce’s flavors. If using baby spinach, stir it in now so it wilts gently.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh chopped basil over the top before serving. For an extra touch, you can add a little more Parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of your homemade Marry Me Chicken Tortellini.

Tips for the Perfect Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Do not overcook the tortellini: Check package instructions and cook just until tender to avoid mushy pasta.
Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and adds a creamier consistency to the sauce.
Sear chicken well: A good sear creates flavor that enhances the sauce.
Make it extra rich: Add a small knob of butter at the end for a silky finish.
Add greens: Baby spinach or arugula can add color and freshness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini? Yes, just increase the simmering time slightly and ensure the tortellini is cooked through. Frozen tortellini may release a bit more water, so adjust sauce consistency if needed.

Can I make this vegetarian? Absolutely! Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or a mix of roasted vegetables.

Can this be prepared ahead of time? Yes! You can make the sauce and chicken in advance, then cook the tortellini just before serving. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Is it spicy? This recipe has a mild kick from red pepper flakes. Adjust to taste or omit for a completely mild version.

Can I use other cheese-filled pasta? Yes! Ravioli or gnocchi can work beautifully instead of tortellini.

Why I Love This Recipe

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini isn’t just a meal—it’s a celebration of flavors. Every time I serve this, the creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy pasta evoke that cozy, happy feeling of being home.

The richness of the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, combined with the silky cream, makes each bite deeply satisfying. It’s indulgent but approachable, impressive yet easy to make. It’s the dish that transforms an ordinary night into something special.

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a romantic evening, or a special family meal, this classic Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe delivers warmth, flavor, and love in every forkful.

Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and your table will be filled with happy, satisfied faces—because comfort food doesn’t get better than this.