Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

A Creamy, Irresistible Dish to Fall in Love With

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich, creamy, and flavor-packed dish that has gained popularity for its irresistible taste and romantic charm. With tender, juicy chicken smothered in a luscious sun-dried tomato and Parmesan cream sauce, this dish is perfect for a special dinner with a loved one—or simply when you want to treat yourself to something indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Comforting: The velvety sauce made with heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan creates an unforgettable flavor.
• Perfectly Balanced: The tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes complements the richness of the sauce.
• Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet feel, this dish is simple enough for a weeknight meal.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Whether serving family or guests, this dish is always a hit.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half lengthwise to create cutlets)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces pasta (such as fettuccine, penne, or linguine)
• 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
• 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain, toss with butter to prevent sticking, and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Season both sides of the chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze.
3. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Return the chicken to the pan and let it warm through in the sauce for another 2 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it in the creamy sauce until well coated.
2. Slice the chicken into strips and place it on top of the pasta.
3. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations

• Lighter Version: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a mix of milk and cornstarch for a lighter sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
• Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for added texture and nutrition.
• Protein Swap: Use shrimp or salmon instead of chicken for a seafood twist.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it may dry out the chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Marry Me Chicken Pasta get its name?

The name comes from the idea that the dish is so delicious, it could inspire a marriage proposal!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best texture, store the sauce and pasta separately and combine them just before serving.

What’s the best pasta to use?

Fettuccine, linguine, or penne work well as they hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Sun-dried tomatoes add a deeper, more concentrated flavor, but fresh cherry tomatoes can be used for a milder taste.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, coconut milk, or a mixture of milk and butter as substitutes.

How can I make this dairy-free?

Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

It’s not ideal, as creamy sauces can separate upon thawing, but you can freeze the sauce separately and add fresh pasta when reheating.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes! A splash of white wine added before the broth enhances the flavors beautifully.

What side dishes pair well with this pasta?

A crisp Caesar salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement the dish perfectly.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dish that’s sure to impress with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Whether you’re cooking for a romantic evening or just craving comfort food, this easy and delicious recipe is bound to become a favorite. Try it today and see why it’s truly love at first bite!

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