This creamy and delicious Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dish that is sure to impress. With its rich combination of tender chicken, al dente penne, and a sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce, it is perfect for date nights, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to wow your guests. The balance of creaminess and spice makes this dish unforgettable and irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This pasta dish has so much to offer:
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and parmesan cheese creates a rich flavor profile that delights the palate.
- Versatile Meal: Ideal for romantic dinners or casual family gatherings; it suits any occasion.
- Easy Cleanup: One skillet cooking means less mess and hassle in the kitchen.
- Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh basil, this dish looks as good as it tastes.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing Marry Me Chicken Pasta requires minimal equipment, ensuring a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Essential for cooking the chicken and sauce together seamlessly.
- Pot for boiling pasta: A must-have for perfectly cooked penne pasta.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient quantities for optimal flavor balance.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Pasta:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 10 ounces penne pasta
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil*, for garnish
Enjoy this irresistible, flavor-packed dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, forming a paste.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta.
- Stir well to coat everything in the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil and additional parmesan cheese before serving.
Now you have a delightful Marry Me Chicken Pasta ready to impress your loved ones! Enjoy!
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Serving Marry Me Chicken Pasta can elevate your dining experience, turning a simple meal into a delightful occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this delicious dish.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- Garlic bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly, adding a crunchy texture and rich flavor.
Add a Fresh Salad
- A light green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta and adds freshness.
Serve Family-Style
- Present the pasta in a large bowl for communal sharing, encouraging family and friends to dig in together.
Top with Extra Parmesan
- A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan on top enhances the cheesy goodness and makes each bite more indulgent.
Garnish with Fresh Basil
- Fresh basil not only adds color but also provides an aromatic touch that brightens the dish.
How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta
To achieve the best results with your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and quality parmesan cheese for enhanced flavors.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook penne al dente to ensure it has the right texture and holds up well in the sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and seasoning as needed to suit your palate.
- Let it Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps flavors meld beautifully.
- Experiment with Proteins: Try swapping chicken for shrimp or even a plant-based protein for a different twist.
- Enhance Creaminess: For an even richer sauce, add an extra splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese.
Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
To round out your meal, consider pairing your Marry Me Chicken Pasta with some delicious side dishes. Here are some great options:
- Steamed Vegetables
Lightly steamed broccoli or asparagus adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish. - Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad provides crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons that complement the pasta’s flavors. - Roasted Potatoes
Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs offer a hearty side that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta. - Bruschetta
This appetizer of toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil is fresh and flavorful—perfect before diving into your main course. - Antipasto Platter
A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and artichokes makes for an exciting starter that pairs well with Italian cuisine. - Caprese Skewers
Easy-to-eat skewers featuring mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing bite alongside your pasta dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long makes it mushy. Follow package instructions for al dente pasta, ensuring the best texture in your dish.
- Not simmering the sauce: Failing to let the sauce simmer can prevent it from thickening properly. Allow it to simmer a few minutes for the ideal consistency.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Poor quality cheese or broth can affect flavor. Invest in good quality parmesan and chicken broth for a richer taste.
- Ignoring garnishes: Skipping fresh basil or extra parmesan on top can make your plate look less appealing. Don’t forget to add these final touches for presentation!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions
- Place cooled Marry Me Chicken Pasta in freezer-safe containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring chicken, penne pasta, and a delicious sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce that is sure to impress anyone.
Can I customize this Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for different flavors.
How do I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese.
What goes well with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Serve this dish with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Final Thoughts
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is an irresistible dish that combines rich flavors with comforting textures. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether you are serving it for a date night or a family dinner, this recipe will surely impress everyone at the table. Don’t hesitate—try making this delightful pasta today!
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the creamy delight of Marry Me Chicken Pasta, a dish that promises to impress at any dining occasion. This flavorful recipe combines tender chicken and al dente penne pasta in a rich sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce that brings a perfect balance of creaminess and spice. Ideal for date nights or family gatherings, this dish is not only delicious but quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. Enjoy this culinary masterpiece garnished with fresh basil for an elegant touch, making every bite unforgettable.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 10 ounces penne pasta
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons garlic
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high, add chicken, and cook until no longer pink (6-8 minutes). Remove chicken from skillet.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds. Stir in flour, then gradually whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, and parmesan until smooth.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and seasonings; let simmer until thickened.
- Return chicken to skillet along with pasta; toss to combine. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
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