With the aroma of garlic mingling with smoky chipotle in the air, it’s hard not to feel a warm rush of excitement as you prepare to create a truly unique dish. Imagine a creamy, luscious sauce enveloping tender pieces of chicken and pillowy tortellini, all in one pan. This is exactly what you get with Marry Me Chicken Tortellini (Creamy Mexican Chipotle Sauce). Each bite bursts with flavor, transporting you to a cozy dinner setting where the worries of the day melt away—there’s nothing quite like it!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini (Creamy Mexican Chipotle Sauce)
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini (Creamy Mexican Chipotle Sauce)

Marry Me Chicken Tortellini (Creamy Mexican Chipotle Sauce)

I remember the first time I crafted this dish; it was a chilly evening, and my family had gathered around the table. The combination of Mexican heat and Italian comfort caught everyone’s focus. Laughter filled the air, and the warmth of shared moments flowed through every bite. Come rain, shine, or a busy weeknight, this recipe perfectly balances ease and elegance, making it the ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for an effortless dinner or a crowd-pleaser for company, this dish is sure to impress. So let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delicious experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cook time, this dish comes together rapidly—perfect for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: The smoky chipotle and creamy sauce create a rich, satisfying flavor that dances on your palate, leaving you wanting more.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs make this dish as beautiful as it is delicious—your guests won’t be able to resist snapping a photo!
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it any time: whether it’s a family dinner, a special gathering, or simply a cozy night at home, this dish fits right in.
Diet-Friendly Options: Looking to keep it low-carb? Simply reduce the chicken broth and feel free to explore alternative proteins or veggie tortellini for a lighter twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs): Cut into 1-inch pieces for even cooking and tenderness. Use thighs for a richer flavor.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the other flavors. Adjust to your taste.
1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional): Adds a touch of warmth. Skip if you prefer less heat.
2 tablespoons olive oil: This oil helps to create a beautiful sear on the chicken. Use light olive oil for a more neutral flavor.
1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and depth to the sauce. You can use ghee for a dairy-free option.
3-4 cloves minced garlic: Infuses the dish with an incredible aroma and flavor. Use fresh garlic for the best results.
1-2 teaspoons adobo sauce: Brings smokiness and depth; adjust based on your heat preference.
½ cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (sliced): They add a sweet and tangy kick that perfectly complements the dish. Make sure to use the kind packed in oil for extra flavor.
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: A flavorful base for the sauce. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
19 ounces cheese tortellini: Refrigerated or frozen for convenience; the cheese-filled tortellini add creaminess to each bite.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich, creamy texture of the sauce. For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half.
½ cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): Enhances the creaminess and adds a wonderful cheesy flavor that melds beautifully.
Fresh cilantro (or parsley): For garnish and an added fresh flavor. Parsley can be substituted if you’re not a fan of cilantro.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Tortellini (Creamy Mexican Chipotle Sauce)

Sear the Chicken: Begin by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of chili powder for an optional kick. In a large deep skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until deeply golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside—it should be perfectly cooked but not yet fully done.

Bloom the Flavors: Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—the aroma will fill your kitchen, making you eager for what’s to come. Next, stir in the chopped chipotle peppers and adobo sauce, letting them cook for an additional minute to deepen the flavors. Toss in the sun-dried tomatoes and stir for another minute. This is where the base of your delicious sauce is born!

Make the Sauce and Simmer the Tortellini: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the pan for maximum flavor. This is called deglazing, and it’s key for a rich sauce. Stir in the heavy cream to create that luscious texture. Then, add the tortellini, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the broth. Return the chicken along with any juices back to the skillet. Cover and let it simmer for 9-11 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The liquid should reduce and thicken around the pasta, creating a creamy dream.

Finish: Off the heat, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts beautifully into the sauce, enhancing the creaminess. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy your cozy, flavorful creation—as a delightful treat after a long day.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover Marry Me Chicken Tortellini (Creamy Mexican Chipotle Sauce), let it cool slightly, then transfer to an airtight container. It can stay at room temperature for up to 2 hours; for longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if it looks too thick for your liking. In this way, you’ll maintain the delightful texture and flavor!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the chicken in the first step; it will cook further during the simmering stage.
For a creamier sauce, add a bit more heavy cream, but keep the balance to ensure it remains rich without being overwhelming.
Don’t skip deglazing—scraping up the fond (the browned bits) infuses incredible flavor into the sauce.
If you want to make it ahead of time, prepare the sauce and chicken, then add the tortellini just before serving to keep them tender.
If using frozen tortellini, add an extra couple of minutes to the cooking time to ensure they’re heated through.
Add extra chopped veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

The goodness of Marry Me Chicken Tortellini (Creamy Mexican Chipotle Sauce) lies in its blend of flavors and comforting textures, making it a joy to share and savor. Each spoonful is not just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather around the table, bond with loved ones, and create cherished memories. Embrace the beauty of culinary creativity, and don’t hesitate to add your own touch to this delight!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! While cheese tortellini is delightful in this recipe, feel free to substitute it with other pasta types like penne, farfalle, or even a gluten-free option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

How spicy is the dish?

The spice level can easily be adjusted based on your preference. Use more or fewer chipotle peppers and adobo sauce to customize the heat. For a milder flavor, omit the chili powder and use only one teaspoon of adobo sauce.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! To transform this into a vegetarian dish, simply omit the chicken and replace it with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Consider using vegetable broth and cheese tortellini for a satisfying alternative.

How do I ensure the sauce is creamy?

The key to a creamy sauce lies in using full-fat heavy cream and allowing the sauce to simmer so it thickens properly. If it doesn’t thicken, add a little cornstarch dissolved in water to the sauce as it simmers until you reach your desired consistency.