Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

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Description:

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a rich and creamy pasta dish that features tender chicken and cheese-filled tortellini in a flavorful sun-dried tomato cream sauce. This dish is perfect for a romantic dinner or any special occasion, making it an instant crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients (Quantities):

For the Chicken:

  • Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless): 1 lb (about 2 medium breasts)
  • Salt and black pepper: to taste
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon

For the Tortellini:

  • Tortellini (fresh or frozen, cheese or chicken-filled): 12 oz

For the Sauce:

  • Butter: 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic (minced): 3 cloves
  • Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped, oil-packed): ½ cup
  • Heavy cream: 1 cup
  • Parmesan cheese (grated): 1 cup
  • Fresh basil (chopped, for garnish)
  • Red pepper flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for heat)

Optional Ingredients:

  • Spinach: 2 cups (fresh, for added nutrition)
  • Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon (for brightness)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken:

  • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from the skillet, let rest for a few minutes, then slice or dice into bite-sized pieces.

2. Cook the Tortellini:

  • In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce:

  • In the same skillet used for the chicken, add butter and let it melt. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and let it thicken for about 2-3 minutes.
  • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If using, add spinach and let it wilt in the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

4. Combine Everything:

  • Add the cooked tortellini and diced chicken to the sauce, tossing gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

5. Serve:

  • Serve the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini hot, garnished with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Success:

  • Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes: They add a lot of flavor to the dish, so choose ones packed in oil for the best taste.
  • Customize the chicken: You can also use grilled or rotisserie chicken to save time.
  • Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream for a lighter version.

Recommendations:

  • Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove.

Nutrition (per serving, estimated):

  • Calories: 680
  • Protein: 40g
  • Fat: 40g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 900mg

Enjoy this Marry Me Chicken Tortellini—a delicious and romantic dish that’s sure to impress anyone at your table!

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