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Marry Me Chicken Tortellini

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini is an ultra-creamy skillet meal featuring browned chicken, silky garlic cream, cheese-filled tortellini, and fresh spinach, perfect for a busy weeknight or date night.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 lb 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces Boneless thighs can be used for more flavor.
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced Alternatively, use 1½ tsp jarred garlic if pressed for time.
  • 9 oz cheese-filled tortellini, fresh or frozen Adjust boiling time as package directs.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Use Parmigiano-Reggiano for best flavor.
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, packed Baby spinach works well.
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and mince the garlic.
  2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil for the tortellini.
Cooking
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper as it cooks.
  2. Push the chicken to the side, add minced garlic, and cook until fragrant, about 30–60 seconds.
  3. While the chicken sautés, cook the tortellini in boiling salted water according to package instructions. Drain, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.
  4. Reduce skillet heat to low. Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and sprinkle 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning. Simmer gently for about 3–4 minutes.
  5. Add the drained tortellini, spinach, and Parmesan to the skillet. Toss until the spinach wilts and cheese melts into a creamy coating.
  6. If the sauce is too thick, stir in reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serving
  1. Serve immediately while hot, optionally garnished with extra grated Parmesan and black pepper.

Notes

This dish can be paired with a crisp green salad or roasted asparagus. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.