If you have ever dreamed of a dish so irresistibly creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavors that it might just earn a special place in your recipe collection, then this Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender chicken, silky sun-dried tomatoes, and pillowy cheese ravioli all smothered in a luscious creamy sauce, it’s comfort food elevated to a whole new level. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this dish manages to be both elegant and accessible. Stick with me and you’ll see why this recipe deserves a permanent spot on your menu.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to the magic in this Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli Recipe lies in its simple yet impactful ingredients. Each one plays a vital role from the creamy texture to the bright bursts of flavor that make every bite memorable.
- Family size cheese ravioli: The star starch, soft and cheesy, creating the perfect base to soak up the sauce.
- 2 chicken breasts: Lean protein that becomes tender and flavorful when seasoned and cooked just right.
- 2 cups heavy cream: The heart of the sauce, giving it that silky, indulgent texture that makes this dish so crave-worthy.
- 1 cup broth (chicken or vegetable): Adds depth and balances the creaminess without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for a salty, nutty kick that laces the sauce beautifully.
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Bright bursts of tangy sweetness that contrast wonderfully with the richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple but essential seasonings that bring all the flavors into harmony.
- Your favorite seasoning blend for the chicken: Personalize the dish by using herbs and spices you love to elevate the chicken’s flavor.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli Recipe
Step 1: Season and Cube the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with your favorite blend of spices. Cutting the chicken into cubes is a clever tip to speed up cooking while ensuring every piece gets well coated and seasoned, making each bite flavorful and tender.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Until Golden
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the cubed chicken pieces until they develop a beautiful golden crust and are fully cooked through. This step locks in the tenderness and adds a subtle caramelized flavor that blends perfectly with the sauce later.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Sauce Base
In the same skillet, without any extra oil, pour in the heavy cream and broth. Stir them together to create the lush base for your sauce. Using the same pan captures all those cooked chicken flavors, infusing the sauce with richness and depth.
Step 4: Add Ravioli and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Gently add the cheese ravioli and chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the skillet. Cook them according to the ravioli package instructions, which allows the pasta to become tender while the sauce thickens and the tomatoes release their bright, tangy notes. This step ties together creamy and vibrant tastes perfectly.
Step 5: Return Chicken to the Skillet
Once the ravioli is tender and the sauce has thickened, add the cooked chicken cubes back into the pan. Mix everything well, coating the chicken in the rich, creamy sauce to raise each component to delicious new heights.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan and Fresh Parsley
For the final touch, sprinkle additional shredded Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley over the dish just before serving. This not only adds a lovely visual pop but also layers an extra punch of nutty, fresh flavor that complements the entire meal.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this beautiful dish, fresh herbs like parsley or basil work wonders. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese right before serving can create a tantalizing, melty finish and a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can add a gentle kick if you like a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
This luscious main pairs perfectly with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to add contrasting textures and balance. Light, fresh sides help cut through the richness, making every bite refreshing and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, try serving this Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli Recipe in individual shallow bowls with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a few whole sun-dried tomatoes on top. You can also nestle the ravioli and chicken atop a bed of sautéed spinach for a gourmet look that’s still easy to prepare.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This recipe refrigerates beautifully in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cool it down completely before sealing the container to keep the sauce fresh and prevent any watery separation.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, it freezes well in portions. Use freezer-safe containers and leave space at the top for the sauce to expand. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid breaking the sauce’s creamy consistency. Adding a splash of broth or cream can help loosen things up if it gets too thick. Microwaving is possible but stir halfway through to ensure even warming without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add more juiciness and flavor due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as they might take a little longer to cook through.
What type of ravioli works best for this recipe?
Cheese ravioli is the classic choice because its creamy filling complements the sauce. However, you can experiment with spinach or mushroom ravioli for a twist, but keep in mind the flavor profile will change.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, with some adjustments. Use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream substitute and vegan cheese instead of Parmesan. The flavor won’t be quite the same but still delicious!
Is it possible to prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Prepare the chicken and sauce separately and cook ravioli fresh when ready to serve. Combining everything just before serving ensures optimal texture and taste.
How spicy is this dish?
As written, this Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli Recipe is mild and creamy with no heat. You can always add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice it up according to your taste.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli Recipe, it’s easy to see why it has such a loyal following. The dreamy blend of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy pasta creates comfort and elegance all in one plate. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to inspire smiles and requests for seconds. So grab those ingredients and get cooking — your new favorite meal awaits!
Print
Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli is a comforting and flavorful one-pan dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked with creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and cheesy ravioli. This quick and easy recipe creates a rich, satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Proteins
- 2 chicken breasts
Dairy
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Additional shredded Parmesan cheese for topping
Pantry Items
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Your favorite seasoning blend for the chicken
Pasta
- Family size cheese ravioli (about 12-16 ounces or per package size)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Season and Cube the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with your favorite seasoning blend. Cut the chicken into cubes to ensure quicker and more even cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the cubed chicken until golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to keep warm.
- Prepare the Sauce: Using the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and broth. Stir the mixture well to combine the flavors while using the residual chicken bits for added taste.
- Add Ravioli and Tomatoes: Add the cheese ravioli and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Cook according to the ravioli package instructions, typically 4-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the ravioli is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken cubes back into the skillet and stir gently to combine with the creamy sauce and ravioli, ensuring everything is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle additional shredded Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley over the top before serving to add an extra burst of flavor and presentation appeal.
Notes
- Use chicken or vegetable broth depending on your preference or dietary needs.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add acidity and sweetness, but you can substitute with roasted red peppers for a different flavor.
- Ensure the skillet is large enough to accommodate the ravioli and sauce comfortably to avoid overcrowding.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream.
- Adding fresh parsley enhances the freshness and color of the dish.
