Introduction to Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Have you ever stumbled upon a dish so tantalizing that it promises to make your loved one propose? Meet Marry Me Chicken Tortellini—the delectable spin on the original Marry Me Chicken, which features rich, creamy flavors that undoubtedly charm anyone at the dinner table. This dish gained popularity due to its enticing blend of savory chicken, a medley of spices, and creamy goodness, all harmoniously combined with tortellini for a satisfying meal.
What’s the Story Behind Marry Me Chicken?
The name "Marry Me Chicken" may raise an eyebrow, but the backstory is as delightful as the dish itself. The tale goes that a couple fell in love over a comforting plate of creamy chicken, leading to a marriage proposal shortly after. Just imagine impressing a special someone with this upgraded recipe featuring cheese tortellini as a comforting base! Cooking can truly be a romantic affair, especially when a meal brings people closer together.
Adding to the magic, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or fancy gatherings alike. And while you’re at it, why not explore more about meal preparation tips for picky eaters or about the nutritional benefits of a balanced diet on Healthline? Your culinary journey is just beginning, and this Marry Me Chicken Tortellini recipe is an invitation to bridge the gap between cooking and love.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Essential ingredients for a creamy delight
Creating the perfect Marry Me Chicken Tortellini requires just a handful of delicious ingredients that come together to make this dish unforgettable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Turkey Bacon: Adds a savory crunch without the intense fat of traditional bacon.
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless for a tender bite.
- Sundried Tomatoes: These bring a burst of flavor and color.
- Shallot and Garlic: Essential aromatics that enhance the overall taste.
- Cream and Parmesan Cheese: The secret to that rich and creamy sauce.
- Tortellini: Choose your favorite cheese-filled version for that delightful texture.
Each of these ingredients plays a vital role in crafting a dish that expects to impress!
Substitutions and alternatives
Don't have everything on hand? No problem! Swap out turkey bacon for chicken ham if you prefer. If you want a lighter option, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. And for a different flavor profile, why not use fresh tomatoes if you have some? You can also adjust the type of cheese—try mozzarella if that’s your go-to.
Feel free to be creative while keeping the heart of the recipe intact! For additional tips on ingredient substitutions, check out this cooking resource.
Preparing Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
If you're looking for a heartwarming, delicious meal that could make anyone say "I do!", Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is the dish you need to whip up. This creamy pasta is filled with robust flavors, and today we'll guide you through each step to prepare this delicious recipe. Let’s get started!
Gather and Prep Your Ingredients
Before diving into cooking, it's essential to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 thick-cut turkey bacon slices
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to about 1 inch thick)
- Seasonings: freshly ground black pepper, kosher salt
- ¾ cup julienne-cut sundried tomatoes
- ½ cup finely chopped shallot
- 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- Dried Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper
- Tomato paste
- Chicken broth
- Heavy whipping cream
- A package of refrigerated cheese tortellini
- Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for garnish
Also, fill a large saucepan with salted water and bring it to a boil over high heat – you’ll need that for the tortellini later!
Cook the Turkey Bacon to Crispy Perfection
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the chopped turkey bacon. This step is key! You want the bacon to get crispy, which usually takes about 8 minutes. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally. Once finished, use a slotted spoon to transfer the crispy bacon onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Make sure to reserve about three tablespoons of those delicious drippings—trust me, you’ll want that flavor!
Sauté the Chicken to Golden Brown
Now, let’s move on to that tender chicken. Sprinkle the chicken breasts with black pepper and some kosher salt before adding them to the skillet with those glorious turkey bacon drippings. Cook the chicken over medium-high heat until it’s golden brown and cooked through, usually around 5 to 6 minutes per side. When the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F, it’s ready! Set it aside to cool for a bit before chopping it into bite-sized pieces.
Create the Creamy Sauce with Veggies and Seasonings
With the chicken out of the skillet, reduce the heat to medium. It’s time to add some flavor! Toss in the sundried tomatoes and shallot, cooking until they're nice and soft. Add your garlic, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper. Let those flavors mingle for about 30 seconds before mixing in the tomato paste and allowing it to darken. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the skillet, scraping any tasty bits off the bottom. Finally, stir in the heavy whipping cream and simmer until thickened.
Combine Tortellini with the Lush Sauce
At this point, your water should be boiling! Toss those cheese tortellini in and cook until tender, about 3 to 5 minutes (they should float!). Once done, drain the tortellini, saving about a cup of that cooking water. Now combine the tortellini with the creamy sauce, adding the cooked chicken and turkey bacon, and ensuring everything is coated in that rich sauce. If it looks too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little of that reserved cooking water until you achieve a luscious consistency.
Pour yourself a bowl, sprinkle with extra Parmesan, and top it with fresh basil. Enjoy your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini! It's a meal that not only tastes fantastic but is sure to impress anyone at the dinner table. For more similar recipes, check out allrecipes.com or foodnetwork.com.
Variations on Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Swap Out Tortellini for Different Pasta Shapes
While Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is undoubtedly delightful with cheese tortellini, don’t hesitate to play around with pasta shapes! Consider penne for a hearty bite or fettuccine for those luscious, creamy bites. Even a gluten-free alternative, like brown rice pasta, can provide a satisfying twist. Get creative based on your pantry staples or dietary preferences.
Explore Protein Options: Chicken, Turkey Bacon, or Beef
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility! If you're not in the mood for chicken, try using chicken ham for a flavor-packed alternative, or swap in turkey bacon for a slightly healthier twist. For a heartier option, beef sautéed with the same seasonings will deliver a comforting richness. Each choice brings a unique flair, making your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini experience truly your own! If you're curious about ingredient swaps, check out this guide for more ideas.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Creaminess
To ensure your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is luxuriously creamy, use heavy whipping cream, as it thickens beautifully when simmered. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese at the end for an extra boost of flavor and creaminess. If the sauce gets too thick, don’t hesitate to add some reserved pasta cooking water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Best Practices for Cooking Chicken Safely
When cooking chicken, it’s vital to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (73°C) to eliminate any harmful bacteria. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy, and always let your chicken rest for about 10 minutes after cooking. This helps retain juices, making your tortellini dish even more juicy and flavorful, ultimately impressing everyone at the table! For more cooking safety tips, check out resources from the USDA.
Serving Suggestions for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Pairing with Fresh Salad or Garlic Bread
Elevate your Marry Me Chicken Tortellini experience by serving it alongside a light, vibrant salad. A simple arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the dish's richness. Alternatively, crusty garlic bread complements the creamy sauce wonderfully, making every bite a delight! If you’re feeling adventurous, try some homemade breads like focaccia or ciabatta.
Perfect Beverage Alternatives
While a glass of wine is often the go-to, consider sparkling water or herbal iced tea for a refreshing twist. Flavored sparkling water, perhaps with a hint of citrus or berries, adds a festive touch. Herbal iced teas, like hibiscus or mint, can perfectly balance the savory elements of the dish, making your meal feel truly special. For more drink inspiration, check out this guide on flavorful non-alcoholic options on Serious Eats.
Time Breakdown for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Preparation Time
The prep for this Marry Me Chicken Tortellini dish is a quick 10 minutes. That’s just enough time to gather all your fresh ingredients and get everything ready to cook.
Cooking Time
Once you dive into the cooking, you’re looking at about 50 minutes of active time. This includes crisping up that turkey bacon, sautéing the veggies, and simmering down the creamy sauce.
Total Time
In total, you’ll need about 1 hour from start to finish. This delicious meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy date night in, giving you quality flavors without the lengthy time commitment! Looking for more delicious chicken recipes? Check out AllRecipes for inspiration!
Nutritional Facts for Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
When you whip up this delightful Marry Me Chicken Tortellini, you’re not just treating your taste buds; you're also mindful of your nutrition. Here’s a quick glance at the essential nutritional facts for one serving (approximately 1 ⅓ cups):
Calories
This creamy dish packs a satisfying 744 calories, making it a hearty option for dinner.
Protein
You can fuel your day with 49 grams of protein, thanks to the chicken and cheese tortellini, keeping you energized and full longer.
Sodium
With 1380 mg of sodium, it’s wise to enjoy this dish in moderation, especially if you’re watching your salt intake. Consider pairing it with a refreshing side salad to balance your meal!
Remember, enjoying a rich dish like this can be part of a balanced diet when eaten thoughtfully. For more nutritional insights, check out resources like the Mayo Clinic or Nutrition.gov.
Whether it's date night or a cozy family dinner, Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is bound to become a favorite!
FAQs about Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Can I make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini in advance. Simply follow the recipe until the point of mixing in the tortellini. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, you simply need to heat it through and enjoy!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Marry Me Chicken Tortellini can be stored in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Just make sure to place it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy goodness. For longer storage, consider freezing it; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
What are some tips for reheating the dish?
Reheating is straightforward! Warm the Marry Me Chicken Tortellini gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture. Stir frequently to avoid sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through. Enjoy a comforting meal, just like the first time!
For more storage tips, check out resources from FoodSafety.gov for best practices on food storage.
Conclusion on Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
In summary, Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is the ultimate comfort dish to impress your loved ones or enjoy a cozy night in. With creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy tortellini, it’s a recipe that's sure to become a staple in your home. Don’t forget to share this culinary delight with friends and family! For more recipe inspiration, check out Allrecipes and elevate your dinner game.
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini
Equipment
- large saucepan
- Large skillet
- Slotted spoon
- paper towel
Ingredients
Meat
- 2 breasts boneless, skinless chicken pounded to 1 inch thickness
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon
Condiments
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ cup lower-sodium chicken broth
Vegetables
- 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 cloves large garlic finely chopped
Spices
- 1 ½ teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
Dairy
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup pre-grated Parmesan cheese plus more for garnish
Pasta
- 1 package refrigerated cheese tortellini 20 ounces
Garnish
- torn fresh basil leaves
Instructions
Preparation
- 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 (a thermometer inserted into thickest portion of chicken registers 165 degrees F), 5 to 6 minutes per side, reducing heat if bottom of pan gets too dark. 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, ¼ cup at a time, if 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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