Marry Me Chicken Tortellini Skillet (Print Version)
Creamy skillet with chicken, tortellini, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan sauce
# Recipe Ingredients:
→ Proteins
01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cut into bite-size pieces
→ Pasta
02 - 1 lb fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini
→ Vegetables & Flavorings
03 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
06 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
07 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
08 - 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
09 - 1 cup heavy cream
→ Cheese & Seasonings
10 - 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
11 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
12 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (for garnish)
# Directions:
01 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
02 - In the same skillet, add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Stir in Italian herbs and red pepper flakes, then add chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, scraping up browned bits from the pan.
04 - Lower heat to medium. Stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy.
05 - Return chicken to the skillet. Add tortellini and gently toss to coat in the sauce.
06 - Cover and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tortellini is tender and heated through. Add a splash more broth or cream if sauce thickens too much.
07 - Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle with fresh basil and additional parmesan before serving.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The sauce comes together in minutes but tastes like it simmered for hours
- Everything cooks in one skillet, meaning less cleanup and more time enjoying dinner
02 -
- The sauce will thicken as it stands, so add a splash more broth or cream before reheating leftovers
- Fresh tortellini makes a significant difference in texture compared to dried varieties
03 -
- Pre-grate your parmesan fresh from the block for better melting and flavor
- Don't rush the garlic step, those 60 seconds make all the difference in depth