Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is the perfect dish for any occasion. This creamy, cheesy pasta combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and vibrant spinach in one pan. It’s not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor, making it an irresistible choice for dinner parties or weeknight meals. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or feeding the family, this dish will impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup as everything cooks in a single pan.
- Deliciously Creamy: The rich sauce makes every bite comforting and satisfying.
- Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 27 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of flavors appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delightful Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and cooking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large oven-safe pan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large oven-safe pan: This allows you to cook and bake all in one vessel, enhancing flavor without extra dishes.
- Whisk: A sturdy whisk helps create a smooth sauce by mixing ingredients thoroughly without lumps.
Ingredients
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini features creamy, cheesy pasta with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach—all in one pan for an easy, irresistible meal!
For the Sauce and Filling
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (plus 1 tbsp oil)
- 8 ounces mushrooms (thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1-1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 7/8 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
For the Main Dish
- 9 ounces refrigerated Rana’s tortellini
- 1-1/2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach (coarsely chopped)
- Salt and pepper
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and preheat to 425°F.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large (3.5 quart) oven-safe pan over medium-high heat:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil from the sun-dried tomatoes.
2. Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 2–3 minutes.
3. Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and cook another 2–3 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
5. Transfer everything to a separate plate.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same pan, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter:
1. Sprinkle flour over melted butter and whisk until smooth (about 1–2 minutes).
2. Stir in Italian seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), plus salt and pepper to taste.
3. Gradually pour in milk and chicken broth while whisking constantly until smooth.
4. Bring mixture to a boil; then reduce heat to medium and simmer until slightly thickened (about 3–5 minutes).
5. Lower heat to low; add Parmesan cheese gradually until melted.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return cooked vegetables along with their liquid back into the pan:
1. Add rotisserie chicken, tortellini, and chopped spinach.
2. Gently stir to combine; ensure tortellini is submerged in liquid.
Step 5: Bake
Place pan in preheated oven:
1. Bake for 8 minutes.
2. Remove from oven; stir well and press into an even layer.
3. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan over top; bake for an additional 3 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
Once baked, remove from oven:
– Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
– Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
– Serve immediately for best results as tortellini will absorb sauce if left too long.
Enjoy your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini!
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving ideas to consider.
Casual Dinner Setting
- Garlic Bread – A crunchy side that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce, perfect for soaking up every bite.
- Mixed Green Salad – Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the tortellini.
Romantic Dinner
- Candles and Soft Music – Create a cozy atmosphere by dimming the lights and lighting candles while enjoying this comforting dish.
- Wine Pairing – A glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors beautifully and adds an elegant touch.
Family Meal
- Family-Style Serving – Serve directly from the pan, allowing everyone to help themselves. It encourages sharing and conversation.
- Kid-Friendly Sides – Consider adding fruit or carrot sticks on the side for a balanced meal that appeals to younger palates.
Leftover Options
- Reheat with Extra Cheese – For leftovers, sprinkle some cheese on top before reheating for an extra cheesy delight.
- Serve as a Cold Pasta Salad – Mix in some veggies and serve chilled for a refreshing lunch option.
How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Perfecting Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure you get it just right.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh spinach and quality chicken broth elevate the flavors significantly.
- Don’t Overcook the Tortellini – Follow package instructions closely to achieve that perfect texture without mushiness.
- Adjust Seasonings – Taste as you go! Feel free to add more spices or herbs based on your preferences.
- Experiment with Cheeses – Try adding mozzarella or gouda for different flavor profiles while keeping it creamy.
- Let It Rest Before Serving – Allowing it to sit for a few minutes lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Garnish Thoughtfully – A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds color and freshness right before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Complement your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini with these delicious side dishes. Each option enhances the meal while providing diverse flavors.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine topped with parmesan and croutons brings a tangy crunch that balances the creaminess of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized offer a hearty side that pairs well with your main dish.
- Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil makes for a light appetizer that whets the appetite.
- Steamed Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a nutritious touch while being easy to prepare alongside dinner.
- Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges can be dipped in marinara sauce, giving guests something fun to munch on!
- Stuffed Mushrooms – Baked mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs provide an irresistible bite-sized treat before the main course.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Sometimes, even the best cooks make mistakes when preparing Marry Me Chicken Tortellini. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a rich flavor. Don’t omit them; instead, try using oil-packed varieties for extra taste.
- Overcooking the Tortellini: Follow package instructions carefully. Overcooked tortellini can become mushy and lose its texture.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Taste as you go! Not seasoning properly can lead to bland results. Adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
- Using Low-Quality Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan makes a difference in flavor and texture. Avoid pre-grated options for the best experience.
- Not Allowing the Dish to Rest: Letting it sit for a few minutes after baking helps flavors meld together. Serve immediately for the best taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It’s best consumed within 3–4 days.
Freezing Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake until heated through, about 15–20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed throughout.
- Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Marry Me Chicken Tortellini that may help clarify any doubts.
What is Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, all baked in one pan for easy cleanup.
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?
Yes! Frozen tortellini works well; just adjust cooking time according to package instructions.
How can I customize Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color!
What type of chicken should I use?
Shredded rotisserie chicken is ideal for convenience, but you can also use cooked chicken breasts or thighs.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Marry Me Chicken Tortellini stores well and is perfect for meal prepping for busy weeks.
Final Thoughts
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. With its creamy sauce and tender ingredients, it’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or protein options. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is an enchanting dish that combines creamy, cheesy pasta with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach—all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. This delightful meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, effortlessly impressing family and friends alike. With its vibrant flavors and comforting texture, it’s no wonder this recipe earns a spot on your dinner rotation. Plus, it can be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit every palate. Discover how to create this irresistible comfort food that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (plus 1 tbsp oil)
- 8 ounces mushrooms (thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1-1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 7/8 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 9 ounces refrigerated tortellini
- 1-1/2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach (coarsely chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- In a large oven-safe pan, heat oil from the sun-dried tomatoes over medium-high heat. Sauté sliced mushrooms for 2–3 minutes until tender, then add sun-dried tomatoes and garlic; cook for another 3 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
- In the same pan, melt remaining butter and whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add milk and chicken broth while whisking until thickened (3–5 minutes). Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Return vegetables to the pan and add chicken, tortellini, and spinach; stir gently.
- Bake for 8 minutes, stir, then sprinkle remaining cheese on top and bake for an additional 3 minutes.
- Serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
