Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Introduction:
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini takes the classic creamy chicken dish to the next level by combining tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a rich, flavorful sauce. Loaded with sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and herbs, this one-pot wonder will leave everyone asking for seconds. It’s a quick, delicious, and cozy meal perfect for date nights or family dinners.

Ingredients Breakdown:

• For the Chicken Tortellini:
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced thinly)
  • 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Recipe:

1. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano.
   • Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
   • Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for added flavor.
3. Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Parmesan:
   • Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer.
   • Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
4. Cook the Tortellini:
   • Add the tortellini to the skillet and cook in the sauce according to package instructions (usually about 4-5 minutes for fresh tortellini).
   • If the sauce thickens too much, add a little more chicken broth or pasta water to loosen it.
5. Combine and Serve:
   • Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet, stirring it into the sauce and tortellini.
   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and sprinkle with additional Parmesan, if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Marry Me Chicken Tortellini:

1. Use Fresh Tortellini:
   Fresh tortellini cooks quickly and has a better texture compared to frozen varieties.
2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken:
   Thinly slice the chicken so it cooks evenly and remains tender in the creamy sauce.
3. Sun-Dried Tomatoes for Flavor:
   Sun-dried tomatoes add a rich, tangy flavor to the sauce. You can use the oil-packed kind for an extra boost of richness.

Variations and Customizations:

1. Spicy Option:
   Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier version.
2. Vegetarian Version:
   Omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a meat-free twist.
3. Pasta Alternatives:
   You can swap the tortellini for other pasta like ravioli, penne, or farfalle.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value:

• Calories: Each serving contains approximately 600-700 calories depending on portion size and ingredients.
• Rich in Protein: This dish provides a hearty amount of protein from the chicken and cheese.

FAQ:

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
   Yes, just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
2. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra broth or cream if needed.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
   This dish is best served fresh, but you can make the sauce ahead of time and reheat it before adding the tortellini.