Introduction to Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
What is Marry Me Chicken Tortellini?
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a delightful and comforting dish that combines tender chicken chunks, creamy sauce, and cheesy tortellini, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. This dish is characterized by its rich flavors, thanks to ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning. When combined with a luscious heavy cream sauce, it creates a symphony of tastes that will have your loved ones asking for seconds—and perhaps even a proposal!
For more details about the delightful flavors and textures, check out this cooking guide on Italian cuisine that dives deeper into classic Italian flavors.
Why is this dish a must-try for young professionals?
For busy young professionals, Marry Me Chicken Tortellini offers a perfect blend of convenience and gourmet appeal. In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal that tastes like it came straight from a high-end restaurant. It’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less clean-up and more time to unwind after a long day.
Moreover, the impressive presentation of this dish makes it a fantastic option for dinner parties or romantic evenings at home. Its rich, creamy flavors and colorful ingredients are sure to impress your guests! Plus, you can easily adjust the recipe to fit your dietary needs, whether you're following a specific diet or just want to use up ingredients in your pantry.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Creating your own Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a delightful journey into flavors that will impress anyone at your dinner table. Let's break down the essential ingredients you’ll need, plus some optional extras for that added touch.
Essential ingredients list
- 1 lb chicken breast: Cut into 1-inch chunks for even cooking.
- Spices: ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning, and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a robust flavor profile.
- Flour: 2 tablespoons to enhance the sauce's thickness.
- Fats: 1 tablespoon butter and 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil for rich sautéing.
- Aromatics: 1 minced shallot and 4 cloves garlic to build a flavorful base.
- Tomatoes: ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil and ¼ cup tomato paste for depth.
- Broth: 2 cups chicken broth to create a savory sauce.
- Pasta & Cream: 1 lb cheese tortellini and 1 cup heavy cream for a comforting texture.
- Greens: 3 cups spinach for a fresh touch.
- Cheese: ½ cup freshly grated parmesan.
Optional ingredients for extra flavor
Want to elevate your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini even more? Consider adding:
- Red pepper flakes: For an extra kick, adjust according to your spice preference.
- Fresh basil: A handful of chopped basil can brighten the dish with a herbal aroma.
- Additional parmesan: Serving with more freshly grated parmesan brings that cheesy, decadent finish everyone loves.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to impress your loved ones. Happy cooking!
Preparing Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Creating Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is not just about following a recipe; it's an experience that will have your taste buds singing. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you through every step of preparing this delightful dish.
Seasoning the chicken
Start your culinary journey by preparing the main star of the dish: the chicken. Take 1 pound of chicken breast and cut it into 1-inch chunks for even cooking. Place the chicken in a medium bowl and season it generously with ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning, and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. This blend not only enhances the chicken's flavor but also adds a vibrant color. Don't forget to sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the seasoned chicken to give it that perfect crispy crust when cooked.
Cooking the chicken
Heat a large cast-iron skillet or ceramic-coated nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, tossing a few times until it's golden brown and cooked through. When done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
Building the sauce
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and toss in minced shallot, garlic, and finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for about 3 minutes until fragrant and softened. Season with ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes along with a pinch of salt and pepper for an extra kick. Next, add ¼ cup tomato paste and 2 cups chicken broth. The key here is to scrape up all those tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet—it’s packed with flavor!
Cooking the tortellini
Now, let’s add some heart to our Marry Me Chicken Tortellini. Stir in 1 pound of cheese tortellini, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet, maintaining a low simmer for about 3-4 minutes or until the tortellini is al dente. Make sure to stir halfway through to ensure everything cooks evenly and those flavors meld beautifully together.
Finishing the dish
Once the tortellini is cooked, it's time to bring it all together! Remove the lid and stir in the cooked chicken, 3 cups of roughly chopped spinach, 1 cup of heavy cream, and ½ cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined, letting the spinach wilt into the creamy, comforting sauce. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh basil, more parmesan, and a dash of black pepper. There you have it – an irresistible Marry Me Chicken Tortellini that’s perfect for impressing your loved ones. Enjoy crafting this dish that’s sure to lead to more than just a second date!
Variations on Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Adding vegetables for extra nutrition
Enhancing your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini dish with vegetables not only boosts flavor but also packs in more nutrients. Consider adding:
- Zucchini: Sautéed alongside the garlic and shallot for a mild flavor.
- Bell peppers: Adds sweetness and crunch; toss them in with the chicken.
- Broccoli or peas: Stir in during the last few minutes of cooking for a burst of color and vitamins.
These additions make your meal more vibrant and appealing, plus they make it easier to sneak in those extra servings of veggies!
Substituting proteins or tortellini types
If chicken isn’t your thing, you can easily customize this dish for your taste. Try these protein swaps:
- Turkey Bacon: Replace chicken with crispy turkey bacon for a smoky twist.
- Chicken Ham: A great alternative for a savory flavor boost.
- Beef: Use tender chunks of beef for a heartier meal.
Don’t forget the tortellini! You can opt for different fillings like spinach and ricotta or even whole-grain options. This flexibility keeps your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini exciting and personalized every time!
For more ideas on tortellini variations, consider checking out this guide on pasta types.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Tips for Perfecting the Sauce
To elevate the sauce in your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, ensure you sauté the shallots and garlic until they’re just fragrant—this enhances their flavor and aroma. Additionally, don't skip scraping the bottom of the skillet; those delicious browned bits add depth to the sauce. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of chicken broth or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving.
Notes on Reheating Leftovers
When it comes to reheating your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, add a splash of water to the pan or container to revive the creamy sauce. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. This easy trick helps the tortellini soak up the sauce again, making your leftovers just as delightful as the first serving! For more tips, check out this reheating guide.
Serving suggestions for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Ideal garnishes
Elevate your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini with fresh garnishes that add both flavor and color. Try topping each serving with:
- Fresh basil leaves for a fragrant finish
- Black pepper for a bit of spice
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you enjoy some heat
- Generous shavings of freshly grated parmesan cheese for that rich, nutty flavor
These simple additions make your dish not just more beautiful, but also more delicious!
Pairing with side dishes
Complement your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini with delightful side dishes that round out the meal. Consider serving:
- Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
- A mixed green salad: Light and refreshing, it balances the richness of the tortellini.
- Roasted vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers offer extra nutrients and texture.
These pairings not only enhance your meal but also create a well-rounded dining experience that everyone will love!
Time Breakdown for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Preparation time
Getting your ingredients ready is key! Expect about 15 minutes for chopping, measuring, and seasoning the chicken. A little organization goes a long way in ensuring a smooth cooking experience.
Cooking time
Once prepped, the cooking process will take you around 25 minutes. This includes browning the chicken, building the luscious sauce, and simmering the tortellini to perfection.
Total time
All in all, you’re looking at approximately 40 minutes from start to finish. A delightful dish ready to impress and win hearts, all in less than an hour!
Feeling inspired? For more detailed cooking tips and insights on ingredients, check out resources on the benefits of using fresh herbs or how to choose the right pasta. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
When you're cooking up a storm with Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, keeping track of the nutritional information can help you make informed choices while enjoying this delicious meal. Let’s break it down:
Calories
One serving of this savory dish comes in at approximately 520 calories. It’s a comforting option that balances flavor and satisfaction without tipping your daily calorie goals too far.
Protein
With 30 grams of protein per serving, this recipe is not only fulfilling but also contributes to your daily protein needs. It supports muscle repair and keeps you feeling full longer—great news for those busy days!
Sodium
Each serving contains about 900 mg of sodium. While this adds to the flavor, be mindful of your total intake, especially if you're watching your sodium levels. Using low-sodium chicken broth can help reduce this number while maintaining the dish's delicious taste.
For more tips on nutrition, consider exploring this USDA resource for in-depth dietary information. Enjoy cooking!
FAQs about Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While cheese tortellini is the star of the show in Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, you can swap it out for other pasta types like penne or even whole wheat options. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes may require slight adjustments for perfect texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers of your delicious Marry Me Chicken Tortellini can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. To reheat, I recommend adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the dish moist. You can microwave it or warm it on the stove for a few minutes.
Is this recipe easy to double for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is fantastic for meal prep! Doubling the ingredients is straightforward, just ensure you have a large enough skillet for everything. Making a bigger batch allows you to enjoy this delightful dish throughout the week with little extra effort. Perfect for busy professionals!
Conclusion on Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
In conclusion, Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is the perfect dish to impress your loved ones while still enjoying a quick weeknight meal. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful tortellini, it’s sure to have everyone asking for the recipe. So, gather your ingredients and get cooking!
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Equipment
- large cast iron skillet
- ceramic-coated nonstick skillet
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch chunks
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, finely chopped
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups spinach, roughly chopped
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- Fresh basil, for serving
- black pepper, for serving
- red pepper flakes, for serving
- parmesan, for serving
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Cube the chicken and place in a medium bowl. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika, then toss to coat. Add flour and gently toss to lightly coat the chicken.
- Cook chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add butter and one tablespoon of olive oil. When hot, add the chicken in an even layer. Cook until browned and cooked through, tossing occasionally. Remove to a bowl.
- Build the sauce: Add remaining olive oil, garlic, shallot, and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Sauté for three minutes until softened. Add red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, tomato paste, and broth. Stir to combine, scraping up bits from the bottom.
- Add pasta: Stir in tortellini, bring to a simmer, and reduce heat to maintain a low simmer. Cover and let simmer for 3-4 minutes until tortellini is cooked, stirring halfway through.
- Finish it up: Remove lid and stir in chicken, spinach, cream, and parmesan until combined. Serve hot with fresh basil, more parmesan, and freshly cracked black pepper.
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