Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is not only incredibly flavorful but also easy to whip up, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or romantic evenings. The luscious sauce, infused with garlic and Parmesan, is so good that it’s rumored to win hearts — hence the name! This dish is a culinary embrace that will leave everyone at the table feeling loved and satisfied.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will fall head over heels for this Marry Me Chicken Pasta because it strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The chicken is juicy and seasoned to perfection, while the creamy sauce is rich yet not overwhelming. It’s a one-pan dish, meaning fewer dishes to wash and more time to enjoy your meal. This recipe is also easily adaptable for various diets, making it suitable for families with different dietary preferences. Whether you’re a busy parent, a culinary novice, or simply looking to impress someone special, this dish checks all the boxes.
Tips and Tricks
To ensure your Marry Me Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:
- Use fresh herbs if possible; they add a vibrant flavor that dried ones can’t match.
- When cooking the chicken, ensure it’s cooked through but not overdone. Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
- For a quick weeknight meal, opt for pre-cooked pasta or even a quick-cooking variety like angel hair.
- Don’t rush the sauce; let it simmer for a bit to enhance the flavors.
- You can add a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
To make your Marry Me Chicken Pasta preparation easier, consider prepping ahead:
- Marinate the chicken in the seasoning mixture the night before for enhanced flavor.
- Cook the pasta in advance and store it in an airtight container with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- The sauce can also be made a day ahead; simply reheat it gently on the stove before adding the pasta and chicken.
- Store prepped ingredients in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring freshness.
Recipe Variations
There are numerous ways to customize your Marry Me Chicken Pasta:
- Swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to fit dietary needs.
- Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce for added nutrition.
- Experiment with different cheeses, such as goat cheese or feta, for a unique twist.
How to Serve
Serve your Marry Me Chicken Pasta in a large bowl or individual plates for an elegant touch. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese to elevate the presentation. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette and crusty garlic bread on the side.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, consider pairing it with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio. If you prefer cocktails, a refreshing gin and tonic or a light spritzer would work beautifully. For dessert, a creamy panna cotta or fruit tart would provide a lovely finish to the meal.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the pasta and sauce separately for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then heat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened.
Equipment Needed
For this recipe, you will need:
- A large skillet to cook the chicken and sauce
- A pot for boiling the pasta
- A cutting board and knife for chopping ingredients
- Tongs for flipping the chicken and serving the pasta
If you don’t have a large skillet, a Dutch oven or any large, heavy-bottomed pan will work as an alternative.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this dish vegan, substitute chicken with chickpeas or plant-based chicken alternatives. Use coconut cream or a cashew cream sauce instead of heavy cream to maintain the creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Always check ingredient labels to avoid allergens.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, fresh tomatoes can be used instead of sun-dried for a lighter sauce. In fall, consider incorporating roasted butternut squash for a hearty twist, while winter may call for hearty greens like kale or Swiss chard to add to the dish.
Recipe FAQs
Can I substitute the chicken for another protein?
Yes, shrimp, tofu, or even seitan can be great alternatives.
What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
You can use fresh tomatoes or tomato paste, but the flavor will differ slightly.
How long does it take to cook the chicken?
Cooking times vary depending on thickness, but it usually takes about 6-8 minutes per side.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta, and you’re all set.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce and perfectly cooked pasta.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sear the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, then add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, cooking until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine: Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything to combine, ensuring the pasta is coated in the sauce.
- Serve: Plate the pasta, garnishing with fresh basil or parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 640Total Fat: 39gSaturated Fat: 19gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 140mgSodium: 602mgCarbohydrates: 40gFiber: 3gSugar: 7gProtein: 34g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings joy and comfort to the table. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to savor every bite!
