Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, savory dish that combines tender chicken with a luscious sun-dried tomato and Parmesan sauce, all tossed with pasta. This recipe is said to be so delicious that it could inspire a marriage proposal, making it a perfect choice for date nights or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a velvety sauce.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this an ideal weeknight meal.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: A mix of garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning gives the sauce depth and warmth.
• Great for Leftovers: The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 12 ounces pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes.
4. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
2. Add the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
2. Serve warm with extra Parmesan cheese on top.

Recipe Variations

• Add Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach for extra greens.
• Make It Spicier: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Use Different Cheese: Try Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
• Swap the Protein: Use shrimp or sliced sausage instead of chicken.
• Low-Carb Version: Serve the creamy sauce over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

Servings and Timing

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

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The sauce may separate when frozen, so it’s best eaten fresh. If necessary, freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
• Reheating: Warm gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Marry Me Chicken get its name?

This dish gained its romantic name because its rich, creamy flavor is said to be “proposal-worthy.”

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness to the dish.

What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

Fettuccine, penne, or linguine are great choices as they hold the sauce well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but for best results, store the pasta and sauce separately and combine when reheating.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk can be used, though the texture may change slightly.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cream alternatives and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

What wine pairs well with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complements the dish beautifully.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Let it simmer longer or add a bit more Parmesan cheese for a thicker consistency.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta.

What can I serve alongside this pasta?

A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make excellent sides.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for a special occasion. Whether you’re making it for a loved one or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Try it tonight and see why it’s known for inspiring romance!

Print