Introduction to Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Have you ever heard of Marry Me Chicken Tortellini? If not, you're in for a treat! This dish combines creamy, savory flavors with tender chicken and cheese-filled tortellini, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner. But what makes it truly special is its delightful backstory.
Why is it called "Marry Me Chicken"?
The term "Marry Me Chicken" originates from the notion that this dish is so delicious, it might just inspire a proposal! Legend has it that one successful cook prepared this recipe for their partner, leading to a memorable moment of love and commitment. While the name might spark some fun conversation, the real magic lies in the creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly cooked chicken that transform ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.
Whether you're planning a cozy date night or simply want to impress your friends at dinner, this dish is sure to elicit compliments and second helpings. Plus, you'll find that it’s a straightforward recipe without requiring culinary superpowers. Interested in more creative takes on your favorite dishes? Check out the resources on AllRecipes and Food Network for inspiration and tips to elevate your cooking game!
So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe that’s destined to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Essential ingredients you’ll need
To craft the delightful Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, gather the following essentials:
- 4 thick-cut Turkey Bacon slices
- 2 (8-ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to 1-inch thickness
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
- ¾ cup drained julienne-cut sundried tomatoes in oil with herbs
- ½ cup finely chopped shallot
- 4 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 ½ teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ cup lower-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 (20-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- ½ cup pre-grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- Torn fresh basil leaves
These ingredients combine to create a rich, satisfying dish that’s perfect for impressing someone special.
Substitutions and alternatives
No need to fret if you can’t find certain ingredients! Here are some easy swaps:
- Turkey Bacon: If you'd like to avoid bacon altogether, consider using diced Chicken Ham for a leaner protein.
- Fresh Basil: Dried basil can work in a pinch, but fresh gives that extra zing!
- Heavy Cream: Want a lighter option? Substitute with half-and-half for a creamier, yet lower-fat experience.
For more cooking tips and ingredient replacements, check out this helpful cooking guide. It’s all about creating a dish that you love!
Preparing Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Making Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is an enchanting culinary experience that combines flavorful ingredients, creamy textures, and delightful aromas. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll be well on your way to impressing your loved ones with this delectable dish!
Gather and prep your ingredients
Before diving in, it’s essential to gather everything you need. This will not only streamline your cooking process but also help you avoid any last-minute trips to the store. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Turkey bacon: 4 thick-cut slices
- Chicken breasts: 2 boneless and skinless, pounded to 1-inch thickness
- Seasonings: Freshly ground black pepper, kosher salt, dried Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper
- Veggies: Julienne-cut sundried tomatoes, chopped shallots, and minced garlic
- Liquid ingredients: Tomato paste, chicken broth, and heavy whipping cream
- Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- Pasta: 1 package of refrigerated cheese tortellini
- Fresh basil leaves to elevate the dish
Cook the turkey bacon to crispy perfection
Now that you have your ingredients prepped, it’s turkey bacon time! Heat a large skillet over medium heat, adding the chopped turkey bacon. Cook it for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s beautifully crispy. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, but keep about 3 tablespoons of the drippings in the skillet. This will add fantastic flavor to your chicken and sauce!
Season and brown the chicken
While the bacon cooks, sprinkle your chicken breasts evenly with black pepper and ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt. After the turkey bacon is set aside, place the chicken in the same skillet with the drippings. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (165°F). This step brings out that savory goodness you’ll adore. Let the chicken cool for around 10 minutes before chopping it into bite-sized pieces.
Sauté the aromatics and make the sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add your sundried tomatoes and shallots to the skillet. Sauté them for about 2 minutes until they soften. Next, toss in the garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and remaining salt. This combination will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma! Afterward, add the tomato paste and stir until it deepens in color.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the skillet's bottom to deglaze it. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then stir in the heavy cream, letting it thicken slightly for 3 to 5 minutes. Trust us, this will form the velvety backdrop for your tortellini.
Boil the tortellini and combine all ingredients
While preparing the sauce, fill a large saucepan with salted water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, cook your tortellini for 3 to 5 minutes until tender and floating to the surface. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of the cooking water before draining the pasta.
Add the tortellini to your creamy sauce along with the chopped chicken and reserved turkey bacon. Mix everything well, adding the reserved cooking water as needed to maintain that creamy consistency. Divide your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini among serving bowls and finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and torn basil leaves.
And there you have it! A comforting, scrumptious dish perfect for impressing anyone at your table. Happy cooking!
Variations on Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Creating your perfect Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is just the start. Here are a couple of delightful variations that will take your dish from good to exceptional!
Spinach and Artichoke Twist
For a creamy and indulgent revamp, mix in fresh spinach and canned artichoke hearts. Sauté spinach until wilted, then stir in the artichokes before adding to your sauce. This adds vibrant colors and nutrients, making it an impressive option for dinner parties or casual gatherings!
Pesto-Infused Version
Want to brighten up your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini? Swirl in some basil or sun-dried tomato pesto alongside the cream for an aromatic twist. The herbaceous notes elevate the dish, making each bite a delicious adventure! Consider using homemade pesto for a fresh burst of flavor.
Experimenting with these variations keeps your meals exciting and allows you to tailor the dish to suit any occasion or palate!
Cooking tips for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Ensuring creamy consistency
To achieve the perfect creamy texture in your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, the key is to keep the heat at a gentle simmer when adding the heavy cream. This prevents separation. Always reserve some of the pasta cooking water—adding it gradually can help you adjust the sauce's thickness to your liking. If it starts to look too thick, a splash of this starchy water can bring it back to life!
Maximizing flavor with fresh herbs
Fresh herbs can truly elevate your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini. While basil adds a lovely aromatic touch, consider sprinkling in some chopped fresh parsley or a bit of thyme for an extra layer of flavor. Herbs are not only gluten-free; they're also packed with antioxidants. A little goes a long way in transforming your dish into something exceptional. For more herb tips, check out this guide.
Happy cooking!
Serving suggestions for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Perfect pairings for your meal
To elevate your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, consider pairing it with a light, refreshing salad. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the dish's rich creaminess beautifully. For a heartier touch, garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables can round out your meal while providing delicious textures.
Creative ways to serve
Serve your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini in individual bowls topped with fresh basil and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for a gourmet appearance. Alternatively, you can dish it up in a large family-style serving platter, allowing everyone to help themselves. Pair it with sparkling water or a chilled herbal tea for a delightful, refreshing beverage option. Want more ideas? Check out Food Network's guide on perfect pasta pairings for additional inspiration!
Time Breakdown for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Preparation Time
Getting started with your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a breeze! You’ll need about 10 minutes to gather your ingredients and prep everything you need. It’s perfect for those lazy weekend meals or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Cooking Time
Let the magic happen in the kitchen! The cooking process takes about 50 minutes. This includes everything from sizzling your turkey bacon to simmering that rich and creamy sauce.
Total Time
All in all, you’re looking at a convenient 1 hour from start to finish for this delightful dish. In just an hour, you can create a meal so scrumptious, it might just lead to proposals! Perfect timing, right?
For more on meal prep tips, check out this handy guide from Food Network. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
When it comes to enjoying a delightful dish like Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, understanding the nutritional content can help you savor every bite guilt-free. Here’s a quick rundown:
Calories per Serving
Each serving of Marry Me Chicken Tortellini packs in approximately 744 calories. It’s a hearty dish perfect for a filling dinner.
Protein Content
You’ll get a substantial 49 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the combination of chicken and cheese tortellini. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to boost their protein intake.
Sodium Levels
Keep in mind, the dish contains around 1,380 mg of sodium. While delicious, it’s great to stay mindful of sodium intake, especially if you’re watching your levels.
For further insights about nutrition and healthy eating practices, check out resources from ChooseMyPlate.gov or CDC Nutrition. Enjoy your cooking!
FAQs about Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! Marry Me Chicken Tortellini can be prepped ahead of time. You can cook the chicken and prepare the creamy sauce, storing them separately in the fridge. Then, when you’re ready to eat, just cook the tortellini, reheat the chicken and sauce, and combine them for a delightful dinner in no time. This is a great strategy for busy weeknights!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay good for about 3–4 days. If you want to savor your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini later on, consider freezing it. Just be sure to separate the sauce and tortellini to prevent mushiness upon reheating.
How can I make it healthier?
You can make a few easy swaps to lighten this dish. For instance, try using lower-fat cream or a plant-based alternative for the sauce. You could also add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to boost the nutrient content without sacrificing flavor. Plus, replacing Turkey Bacon with chicken ham can reduce the fat content while keeping that savory taste intact!
For more health-focused tips, check out resources from the American Heart Association.
Conclusion on Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
In summary, Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is a delightful and cozy dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. With its creamy sauce and rich flavors, it's perfect for a romantic dinner or a comforting weeknight meal. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every bite together!
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Equipment
- large saucepan
- large skillet
Ingredients
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon
- 2 8 ounce boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to 1 inch thickness
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
- ¾ cup drained julienne-cut sundried tomatoes in oil with herbs
- ½ cup finely chopped shallot
- 4 large cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 ½ teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ cup lower-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 20 ounce package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- ½ cup pre-grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- torn fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients. Fill a large saucepan with salted water and bring to a boil over high heat.
- Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon; cook, stirring occasionally, until rendered and crispy, about 8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, reserving about 3 tablespoons drippings in skillet.
- While bacon cooks, sprinkle chicken evenly with pepper and ¼ teaspoon of the salt. Add chicken to skillet with drippings; cook over medium-high, until chicken is browned and cooked through, 5 to 6 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a plate; set aside until cool enough to handle, about 10 minutes. Chop chicken into bite-size pieces.
- Reduce heat to medium, and add sundried tomatoes and shallot. Cook, stirring often, until softened, about 2 minutes. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and remaining 1 teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add tomato paste; cook, stirring constantly, until deepened in color, about 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth; cook, stirring and scraping constantly to deglaze the skillet, about 1 minute. Stir in cream and bring to a simmer over medium. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add tortellini to boiling water, and boil until tortellini are tender and float to the surface, 3 to 5 minutes. Reserve 1 cup cooking water. Drain.
- Stir Parmesan cheese, reserved cooked bacon, reserved chopped chicken, and tortellini into skillet with cream mixture. Cook, stirring and tossing constantly, until evenly coated in sauce. Add reserved cooking water as necessary to maintain a creamy consistency. Divide mixture among 6 bowls; garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and a generous scattering of fresh basil.
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