Creamy Cheesy Marry Me Chicken Tortellini: A Irresistible & Quick Dinner Delight 🍝🧀❤️
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a perfect chicken pasta recipe that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, look no further! This creamy and cheesy Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is an unforgettable dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful tortellini, and a luscious sauce that will make everyone ask for seconds. Whether you’re a busy parent or simply craving comfort food, this recipe comes together in minutes and is the ideal quick dinner. Let’s dive into how to create this fantastic dish!
2. Ingredients for Creamy Cheesy Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
- 1 lb (450g) cheese tortellini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
For some wonderful side ideas, explore our creamy pesto spinach gnocchi bake or our creamy broccoli and cheese potato soup for a complete meal experience.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare the Creamy Cheesy Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Step 1: Cook the tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the chicken
While the tortellini cooks, heat the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo or your favorite skillet with 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the creamy sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan, mozzarella, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Combine everything
Add the cooked chicken and tortellini into the sauce, stirring well to coat. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Let everything simmer together for a few minutes until heated through.
Step 5: Serve and garnish
Transfer the creamy cheesy chicken tortellini to serving bowls and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Serve hot with your favorite crusty bread or a side salad!
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain creaminess. For best results, consume within this timeframe to enjoy fresh flavor and texture.
5. Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Chicken Pasta Dish
This creamy and cheesy Marry Me Chicken Tortellini pairs beautifully with a simple mixed green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. For an extra touch of freshness, sprinkle more basil on top. Also, if you love a bit of a kick, consider adding red pepper flakes during cooking.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I substitute chicken with other proteins?
Absolutely! You can replace chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even plant-based protein options for a vegetarian twist.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The entire process takes approximately 20-30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, substitute heavy cream and cheeses with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and dairy-free shredded cheese. Adjust seasonings to taste.
What pasta shape is best for this recipe?
While we use tortellini here, you can also try rigatoni, penne, or farfalle for variations.
7. Kitchen Tools that You Might Need for This Recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Make cooking faster and easier with this versatile appliance that can help you quickly prepare tender chicken or even reheat leftovers.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: These durable pots and pans will withstand everyday cooking and facilitate smooth sauce-making.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: Perfect for searing chicken to perfection with less mess.
- KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer: For mixing sauces or preparing dough for side dishes effortlessly.
8. Final Tips for a Perfect Creamy Cheesy Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Ensure not to overcook the tortellini to maintain a tender texture. Also, enrich the sauce by adding fresh herbs or a splash of white wine during simmering for extra flavor. Keep an eye on the sauce consistency and adjust with additional cream or broth if needed.
9. Conclusion
This chicken pasta recipe — the Creamy Cheesy Marry Me Chicken Tortellini — is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a real time-saver for busy weeknights. Its rich, creamy sauce combined with tender chicken and cheesy tortellini makes it a comforting yet elegant dish. Give it a try today and turn an ordinary dinner into a special occasion!
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Creamy Cheesy Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
A creamy, cheesy chicken tortellini recipe perfect for quick weeknight dinners. Rich, flavorful, and satisfying.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated tortellini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add cooked chicken to the skillet and sauté for 2 minutes.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until the cheese melts and sauce thickens.
- Mix in cooked tortellini, toss to coat evenly, and season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use cooked rotisserie chicken for easier prep.
- For a bit of spice, add red pepper flakes.
- Perfect with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg