This Marry Me Chicken recipe is pure comfort in a bowl. Creamy, savory, and just the right touch of spice, it blends juicy shredded chicken, cheese-stuffed tortellini, fresh spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes in a luscious parmesan-infused broth. One spoonful, and it’s easy to see why they say this dish might just inspire a proposal.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or looking to impress someone special, this dish feels indulgent without the fuss. It comes together quickly in one pot, yet tastes like it simmered for hours. It’s warm, flavorful, and packed with texture—perfect for dipping a crusty slice of bread or serving with a side salad.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken

Creamy indulgence in every bite: The rich, velvety sauce hugs every piece of chicken and pasta.
One-pot simplicity: Less cleanup, more enjoyment.
Flavor-packed layers: From tangy sun-dried tomatoes to peppery spinach, each bite has something special.
Romantic & cozy: It’s the kind of recipe that makes an ordinary dinner feel like a date night.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you begin, having the right tools will make prep and cooking smooth:

Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: Ideal for building deep flavor and retaining heat evenly for the sauce.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: You’ll need this for chopping spinach and sun-dried tomatoes.
Tongs or Slotted Spoon: Helpful for removing cooked chicken to shred.
Whisk: Crucial for blending the creamy broth and making sure the sauce stays lump-free.
Ladle: Makes it easy to serve the soup beautifully in deep bowls.

Having everything on hand before you start cooking ensures your Marry Me Chicken comes together seamlessly—and helps keep your kitchen stress-free.

Ingredients for the Marry Me Chicken

Chicken Breast or Thighs: The star protein, tender and juicy when simmered in the creamy broth.
Cheese Tortellini: Adds a comforting, cheesy bite that pairs perfectly with the sauce.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Brings a punch of tangy sweetness that balances the richness.
Fresh Spinach: For a fresh, peppery contrast and a boost of color and nutrients.
Chicken Broth: Forms the savory base of the sauce.
Heavy Cream: Essential for the creamy texture that defines this dish.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth and thickens the broth.
Garlic & Onion: Aromatic base layers for that home-cooked flavor.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and infusing the base with richness.
Italian Seasoning & Crushed Red Pepper: To add herby warmth and just a hint of spice.
Salt & Black Pepper: For seasoning the layers just right.

How To Make the Marry Me Chicken

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear until golden on both sides, then remove and shred once slightly cooled.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Base

Add sun-dried tomatoes to the pot followed by chicken broth, heavy cream, and parmesan. Whisk to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add the Pasta & Simmer

Stir in the cheese tortellini and cook until just tender, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 5: Finish with Greens & Chicken

Add spinach and shredded chicken back into the pot. Stir until spinach wilts and everything is well combined. Simmer another 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Taste and Serve

Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper to your liking. Serve hot with crusty bread or a light side salad.

Serving and Storing Marry Me Chicken

This dish is best served piping hot straight from the stove, when the tortellini are perfectly tender and the sauce is rich and silky. Pair it with garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad for a full meal.

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. Freezing is possible, though the texture of tortellini may soften slightly upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is Marry Me Chicken?

It has a mild kick from crushed red pepper, but you can adjust the heat to your liking or leave it out entirely for a gentler version.

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, frozen tortellini work great—just add a few extra minutes to the cook time.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

You can substitute with roasted red peppers or even cherry tomatoes for a different twist.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even quicker and just as flavorful.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be, if you use gluten-free tortellini and check labels on your broth and other ingredients.

What other greens can I use instead of spinach?

Kale, chard, or arugula are great swaps—just adjust cook time to ensure they’re tender.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you enjoyed this creamy Marry Me Chicken, here are a few more easy and cozy chicken recipes to love next:

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms or a twist of lemon? Try it spicy? I love hearing your delicious adaptations. Ask away if you have questions—we’re here to cook smarter, together!