Marry Me Chicken Pasta Salad

If there’s one dish guaranteed to steal the show at potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings, it’s Marry Me Chicken Pasta Salad. Creamy, comforting, and loaded with flavor, this irresistible salad combines tender cheese tortellini, juicy shredded chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, savory dressing inspired by the beloved “Marry Me” flavor profile. It’s the kind of recipe that has people asking for seconds—and then asking for the recipe.

Perfect for warm-weather entertaining or make-ahead lunches, this pasta salad is hearty enough to stand on its own while still feeling fresh and vibrant. Once you try it, you’ll understand exactly how it earned its name.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, savory, and incredibly satisfying
• Perfect for parties, meal prep, or weeknight dinners
• Easy to make ahead with flavors that improve over time
• Packed with protein, pasta, and fresh veggies
• Simple ingredients with big, crowd-pleasing flavor

Ingredients

• Cheese tortellini – Soft, cheesy pasta that adds richness and substance
• Cooked chicken, shredded – Tender protein that makes the salad filling
• Cherry tomatoes – Fresh, juicy bursts of sweetness
• Baby spinach – Adds color, freshness, and light texture
• Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base of the dressing
• Grated Parmesan cheese – Provides salty, savory depth
• Sun-dried tomatoes – Intensely flavorful and slightly tangy
• Fresh basil – Adds aromatic, herby brightness
• Garlic powder – Enhances the savory profile of the dressing
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential for balance
• Milk – Thins the dressing to a smooth, pourable consistency

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Salad

Prepare the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, basil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Gradually add milk, whisking until the dressing is smooth and pourable. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled tortellini, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, and baby spinach. Make sure the pasta has fully cooled so it doesn’t wilt the spinach or thin the dressing.

Combine and Chill

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss thoroughly until everything is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Serve

Give the salad a gentle toss before serving. Enjoy chilled or slightly cool for the best texture and flavor.

Tips for Success

Cool the pasta completely before mixing to keep the dressing creamy. Chop sun-dried tomatoes finely so they distribute evenly throughout the salad. Refrigerating the salad before serving deepens the flavors and improves the texture. If the salad thickens after chilling, add a splash of milk and toss gently to refresh it.

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Colander
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with chickpeas, grilled zucchini, or roasted red peppers.
Extra Greens: Add arugula or kale for more texture and color.
Spicy Twist: Stir in red pepper flakes or chopped Calabrian chilies.
Lighter Option: Use half mayonnaise and half Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Salad as a main dish with crusty bread or as a side alongside grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables. It’s perfect for picnics, BBQs, potlucks, or make-ahead lunches.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made up to a day in advance and actually tastes better after chilling.

How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely. Bowties, rotini, or penne work well if tortellini isn’t available.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortellini or pasta to make it fully gluten-free.

Can I serve it warm?
It’s best served chilled or slightly cool, but it can be eaten at room temperature for short periods.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Salad is creamy, comforting, and bursting with flavor—everything you want in a dish meant to impress. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week, this recipe delivers on taste, texture, and ease. Give it a try, share it with friends, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a permanent favorite in your recipe collection.

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