Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Delight

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich and creamy dish featuring tender chicken in a luscious sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. The combination of garlic, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese creates a velvety texture, while red pepper flakes add just the right amount of heat. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is bound to impress.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thin cutlets.
2. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Stir in Italian seasoning, tomato paste, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
4. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions.
2. Drain and toss the pasta with butter to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet.
2. Add the cooked pasta, stirring everything together to coat evenly in the sauce.
3. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Substitute chicken with shrimp or salmon for a seafood twist.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu for a meat-free option.
• Low-Carb Version: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

Servings and Cooking Time

• 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.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to maintain texture.
• Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pasta works best for Marry Me Chicken?

Penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni hold the creamy sauce well, but any pasta can be used based on preference.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer, or add a slurry of 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water.

What can I serve with this dish?

A side of garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad complements this dish beautifully.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Yes, but sun-dried tomatoes provide a more intense, slightly tangy flavor that enhances the dish.

Is this dish spicy?

It has mild heat from red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook the chicken with the sauce ingredients on low for 3-4 hours, then toss with pasta before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Reheat on the stove with a bit of broth or cream to restore moisture. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can dry out the chicken.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Milk will make the sauce thinner. If using milk, add a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken.

Why is it called “Marry Me Chicken”?

The name comes from how irresistibly delicious the dish is—supposedly good enough to inspire a marriage proposal!

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners. With its creamy, cheesy sauce and tender chicken, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try this recipe and see if it lives up to its name!

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