Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich and creamy dish featuring tender chicken breasts in a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce, served over pasta. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and heavy cream creates a decadent sauce that pairs beautifully with the pasta, making it a perfect meal for date nights or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful – The sun-dried tomatoes and garlic-infused cream sauce add a burst of flavor.
• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, this dish comes together quickly.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether for a romantic dinner or a comforting family meal, this pasta is always a hit.
• Customizable – Easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add red pepper flakes (if using), followed by the sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
4. Reduce heat to low and add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and paprika. Stir until combined.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions.
2. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Return the chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.
2. Slice the chicken and mix it with the cooked pasta.
3. Stir to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
4. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Variations

• Add Vegetables – Spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes can add more texture and nutrients.
• Make it Spicier – Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne.
• Use a Different Protein – Swap the chicken for shrimp or salmon.
• Dairy-Free Option – Use coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of cream and Parmesan.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

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

What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti are excellent choices, but any pasta will work.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

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

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

Yes, but sun-dried tomatoes provide a deeper, more concentrated flavor.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese.

Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta spicy?

It has a mild kick from red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the spice level to your preference.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh. Store the sauce and pasta separately if making ahead.

What side dishes pair well with this pasta?

A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement the dish perfectly.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but add it towards the end of cooking to avoid drying it out.

How can I make this a one-pot meal?

Cook the pasta in the same skillet after searing the chicken, adding extra broth as needed.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish perfect for impressing your loved ones. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking process, it’s ideal for both special occasions and everyday meals. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your home!

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