Creamy, Cheesy Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

This Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe is an easy 30-minute recipe made with cheese tortellini and tender chicken in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce.

The original Marry Me Chicken recipe was a TikTok viral sensation, and the addition of tender cheese tortellini makes this decadent dish even more irresistible.

By searing flour-coated chicken, you get incredible browning to lock in moisture and juiciness with each bite. 

Then comes the showstopping Marry Me cream sauce - you are going to be blown away by how easy a recipe this is! The sun dried tomatoes offer a sweet and tangy contrast to the cozy flavors of cream, garlic, and Parmesan. 

You truly get the best of comfort and indulgence in one skillet. This restaurant-worthy pasta tastes like a special occasion recipe but comes together in just 30 minutes making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredient Information

Chicken Breasts: Pat the boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry before cutting them and coating them in flour. Whole chicken breasts or chicken thighs can be used but they will require a longer cook time. 

Cheese Tortellini: Use frozen or fresh cheese tortellini pasta. Check the package instructions for cook time as fresh and frozen vary.

Sun-dried Tomatoes: Dried or jarred sun-dried tomatoes can be used. If you are using sundried tomatoes packed in oil then drain them before stirring them into the sauce.

Chicken Broth: A low-sodium chicken broth works best so it's not too salty. You can use vegetable broth if you are making without chicken for a vegetarian version.

Heavy Cream: The heavy cream provides a rich, velvety base for the sauce. Half and half can also be used but the sauce may be thinner.

Garlic: Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor rather than garlic powder. Jarred minced garlic also works well.

Crushed Red Pepper: The amount of red pepper flakes in this recipe results in a just a touch of heat. Adjust the amount to suit your palette. 

Parmesan Cheese: Grating fresh Parmesan cheese gives the best bold and nutty flavor for topping the dish. Do not substitute with pre-shredded cheese which has anti-caking agents added.

Basil: Fresh basil is an optional ingredient but it adds a lot of flavor. Thinly slice just before serving to prevent browning.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

1) Brown Chicken

• Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces for even cooking then pat them dry with a paper towel.
• Mix the flour and seasonings in a large resealable bag. You can also prepare this in a shallow dish, like a pie plate if you prefer.
• Toss the chicken in the flour mixture until every piece is well coated.
• Add olive oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Working in batches if needed, add chicken pieces in a single layer, without overcrowding.
• Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Set browned chicken aside on a plate.

2) Make the Sauce

• Reduce to medium heat and add the garlic to the skillet the chicken was cooked in. Sauté for 30 seconds.
• Add the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits stuck on the bottom of the pan.
• Stir in cream, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper. Simmer.
• Let the sauce thicken slightly before adding the seared chicken back to the skillet.

3) Cook the Tortellini

• In a separate large pot, cook fresh or frozen tortellini according to package directions until al dente.
• Drain the tortellini well to prevent the sauce from becoming too thin later.
• This step can be done ahead of time. If you are prepping ahead, toss the tortellini in a little oil to help keep it from sticking together.

4) Finish the Dish

• Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce has thickened, stir in the Parmesan and basil.
• Add drained tortellini and gently toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
• Serve garnished with more Parmesan and basil leaves if desired.

Recipe Variations

Lemon: Just like in my Lemon Pesto Pasta, the addition of lemon brightens this sauce. Stir 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice into the sun-dried tomato cream sauce before adding the tortellini.

Spinach: For extra vegetables add 1 ½ packed cups of chopped spinach to the sauce when you add the chicken back in.

Mushrooms: Sauté 8 ounces of sliced cremini mushrooms with the garlic at the start for an extra meaty, earthy layer before adding other sauce ingredients. 

White Wine Sauce: Replace half of the chicken broth with an equal amount of white wine when making the sauce for added depth and sophistication. 

Spice Adjustments: Leave the red pepper flakes out of the recipe if you do not like any heat. For mild heat, reduce to ¼ teaspoon.

Use a Different Pasta: Replace the tortellini with ravioli for a similar type of pasta with a different shape. Or try this with pappardelle, fettuccini, or penne pasta instead!

One Pan: Rather than boiling the tortellini separately, you can make this a one pot meal by adding the pasta directly to the skillet after making the sauce, and allowing them to cook together until the pasta is al dente.

How to Store Leftovers

Transfer your leftovers to an airtight container or a bowl wrapped tightly with plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Over time the pasta will absorb the sauce so it won't be saucy the next day.

This recipe can be frozen for up to 3 months, though if you are making this recipe to freeze then I recommend just freezing the sauce with chicken, and adding the tortellini when you are ready to serve it.

To reheat, place desired portions in a saucepan with a splash of chicken broth or cream. Gently warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Add more liquids, as needed, if it is too thick.

You can also reheat single servings in the microwave with a damp paper towel placed over the top to prevent splattering. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the desired temperature is reached.

Serving Suggestions

This super simple pasta dish is perfect for casual weeknight dinners or dressing up for at-home date nights. Serve with garlic bread a a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli on the side for a complete meal.

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