Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts, rich sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious parmesan cream sauce with perfectly cooked pasta. This indulgent recipe is perfect for romantic dinners, family gatherings, or just treating yourself to something extraordinary. Its unique name comes from its irresistible taste, rumored to be so good it could inspire a marriage proposal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out for its rich and comforting flavors that come together in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with Marry Me Chicken Pasta:

• Deliciously Creamy: The combination of heavy cream, chicken broth, and parmesan cheese creates a velvety sauce that coats every strand of pasta.
• Burst of Flavor: Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy, slightly sweet note that perfectly balances the creaminess of the sauce.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this dish is approachable even for beginners.
• Customizable: Whether you prefer swapping proteins, adjusting the spice level, or using gluten-free pasta, this recipe adapts easily.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash, as most of the cooking happens in a single pan.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil
• Red pepper flakes
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
4. Make the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze. Add heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce.
5. Add Chicken Back: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Lower the heat and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 10-12 minutes until fully cooked.
6. Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
7. Combine and Garnish: Toss the cooked pasta in the skillet with the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
8. Serve: Plate the pasta with a piece of chicken on top, spooning extra sauce over the dish. Enjoy immediately!

Variations

• Protein Options: Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Pasta Choices: Use gluten-free pasta, zucchini noodles, or whole wheat pasta to suit dietary preferences.
• Cheese Substitutes: Replace parmesan with pecorino romano or gruyere for a different flavor profile.
• Add Veggies: Stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for added nutrition.
• Spicy Version: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, making them a great alternative. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they’re fully cooked.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time. Store them separately and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

3. Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a dairy-free version.

4. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Ensure the heat is low when adding the cream and stir continuously to keep the sauce smooth. Avoid boiling the sauce after adding dairy.

5. What kind of pasta works best?

Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work well, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer.

6. Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best to freeze the sauce and chicken separately from the pasta to prevent texture changes. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

7. How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

Simmer the sauce for a few extra minutes to reduce it, or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water for a thicker consistency.

8. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Fresh tomatoes can be used but will provide a milder flavor. For a similar effect, roast the fresh tomatoes first.

9. What wine pairs well with this dish?

A light white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

10. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a showstopping dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfect pasta, it’s sure to impress your loved ones. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or simply craving comfort food, this recipe is a must-try. Give it a go, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular favorite in your home!

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