Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dreamy, rich, and creamy dish that combines tender chicken, pasta, and a luscious sun-dried tomato sauce. This comforting pasta bake is perfect for date night or any time you want to impress someone with your cooking skills. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes, pairs perfectly with the chicken and pasta for a satisfying meal.

Why Marry Me Chicken Pasta is So Irresistible

What makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta so irresistible is the balance of creamy, savory flavors with the tang of sun-dried tomatoes and the richness of Parmesan cheese. The tender chicken is coated in the delicious sauce, and the pasta soaks up all the creamy goodness. It’s a comforting dish with a burst of flavor that will make anyone want to ask for the recipe!

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken Pasta:
  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 10 ounces penne pasta
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
• For the Sauce:
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
  • Fresh basil, for garnish

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Here’s how to create this creamy and flavorful dish:

1. Cook the Pasta
   Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.
2. Cook the Chicken
   Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink and cooked through.
   Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside while you make the sauce.
3. Make the Sauce
   In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, sauté the garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
   Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a paste.
   Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese until smooth and combined.
   Add the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Season with more salt and pepper to taste.
   Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Combine the Chicken and Pasta
   Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Stir everything to coat the chicken and pasta in the creamy sauce.
5. Garnish and Serve
   Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy finish. Serve hot and enjoy!

Key Ingredients for Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta

For the best Marry Me Chicken Pasta, these ingredients are key:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this dish. They cook quickly and stay tender when simmered in the sauce.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a burst of tangy flavor and a chewy texture that contrasts with the creamy sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a rich, nutty flavor to the sauce, making it creamy and indulgent.
• Penne Pasta: Penne holds onto the sauce perfectly, but you can use any pasta shape you like.
• Heavy Cream: Forms the base of the rich sauce, creating a creamy texture that’s irresistible.

Exploring Variations for Your Marry Me Chicken Pasta

While this recipe is fantastic as is, feel free to customize it to your taste! Here are some ideas:

• Add vegetables: Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms would be a great addition to this dish.
• Use different cheeses: Try swapping out Parmesan for mozzarella or even a combination of both for an extra cheesy version.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.

Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta Every Time

• Cook the chicken in batches: Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. This ensures it gets a nice sear and cooks evenly.
• Don’t skip the flour: The flour helps thicken the sauce, making it creamy and rich.
• Simmer the sauce: Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and thicken up.

The Magic of the Sauce

The magic of Marry Me Chicken Pasta lies in the creamy sauce. The combination of chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese creates a velvety smooth sauce that coats the chicken and pasta perfectly. The sun-dried tomatoes add depth and tang, while the garlic and Italian seasoning give it a delicious, aromatic flavor.

Nutritional Information for Health-Conscious Eaters

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for each serving of Marry Me Chicken Pasta (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 600-650 kcal
• Fat: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 3g

For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cream and cheese, or swap the pasta for a lower-carb option.

Storing and Freezing Your Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To Store: Let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To Freeze: Freeze the chicken pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Serving Suggestions for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For extra flavor, drizzle with some balsamic glaze or top with extra Parmesan cheese.

Essential Cooking Tools and Equipment

For this recipe, you’ll need:

• Large skillet for cooking the chicken and making the sauce
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Knife and cutting board for chopping the chicken, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes
• 9×13-inch baking dish (optional, if you prefer to bake the dish)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work well in this recipe. They’re slightly more flavorful and juicy than chicken breasts.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat and toss with the pasta and chicken when ready to serve.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of cream or broth if necessary.

Quick and Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken
• 10 oz penne pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta and chicken.
2. Make the sauce with cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan.
3. Combine everything and serve!

Key Takeaways

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is an easy, comforting, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Print