Marry Me Chicken Pasta

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Introduction

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a deliciously creamy and indulgent dish that’s perfect for a romantic dinner or an extra-special weeknight meal. Tender chicken is enveloped in a luscious, velvety sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and parmesan cheese, then served over a bed of pasta to create a satisfying, flavorful meal that’s both comforting and elegant.
The combination of rich, savory flavors and creamy texture makes this dish truly unforgettable. It’s the kind of meal that will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even planning a future together. Whether you’re cooking for someone special or treating yourself to something extraordinary, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dish that will undoubtedly impress.
Perfect for a date night or when you want to feel a little extra fancy, this recipe is a surefire way to elevate any meal. Pair it with a glass of wine and a light salad, and you’re all set for a memorable dining experience.


4o miniyou!

Perfect for:

  • Romantic dinners
  • Special occasions
  • Comfort food lovers
  • Weeknight meals

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish to make:

  • Rich and Creamy: The sauce is velvety smooth with the perfect blend of sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan cheese.
  • Quick and Easy: This dish can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings or when you want to impress someone without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta is a match made in heaven.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight or a special dinner, this dish will impress.
  • One-Pot Wonder: Everything comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 500-550 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein, Carbohydrates, Calcium, Vitamin C

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta:

For the Chicken:

  • Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon

For the Sauce:

  • Butter: 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 1/3 cup, chopped (preferably packed in oil)
  • Heavy Cream: 1 cup
  • Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup
  • Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
  • Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for heat)
  • Fresh Basil: A few leaves, chopped (optional for garnish)

For the Pasta:

  • Pasta: 8 oz (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work best)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add a deep, tangy flavor that balances perfectly with the richness of the cream and cheese.
  • Heavy Cream: Ensures the sauce is smooth and creamy, perfect for coating the pasta.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory, umami richness to the sauce, making it extra flavorful.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta:

Cook the Chicken:

  1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Make the Sauce:

  1. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute to release their flavor.
  3. Make the Creamy Sauce: Add heavy cream, chicken broth, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  4. Add Parmesan: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and make the sauce smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Combine with Pasta:

  1. Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook your pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Slice the Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
  3. Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and chicken in the creamy sauce.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil (optional) and serve hot.

How to Serve

Here’s how to enjoy your Marry Me Chicken Pasta:

  • Classic Plate with Garlic Bread: Serve the pasta on a large plate with a side of warm garlic bread for a traditional, comforting meal.
  • In a Shallow Pasta Bowl: For an elegant presentation, serve the pasta in a shallow bowl, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
  • With a Side Salad: Pair it with a simple arugula or Caesar salad to add a refreshing contrast to the creamy, savory pasta.
  • In Individual Casserole Dishes: For a more formal or rustic presentation, bake individual servings in small casserole dishes, topped with a little extra cheese and breadcrumbs.
  • Topped with Crispy Bacon: Add crumbled crispy bacon on top of the pasta for a savory crunch that complements the creamy sauce.
  • In a Hollowed-out Bread Bowl: For a fun and unique serving method, serve the pasta in a hollowed-out sourdough bread bowl.
  • With Roasted Vegetables: Serve the pasta with roasted vegetables (like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus) on the side for added color and flavor.
  • On a Wooden Serving Platter: For a rustic presentation, serve the pasta on a large wooden platter, with herbs and lemon wedges scattered around.
  • As a Family-Style Buffet: Serve the pasta in a large bowl in the center of the table, allowing guests to help themselves and enjoy a shared meal.
  • With Parmesan Crisps: Top the pasta with homemade Parmesan crisps for a light, crispy texture and a sophisticated touch. in a large dish and let everyone dig in!

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to make your Marry Me Chicken Pasta perfect:

  • Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful than breasts. This will give your pasta an extra boost of richness.
  • Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary can elevate the flavor. Add them at the end for a fresh, fragrant finish.
  • Use Heavy Cream for a Richer Sauce: If you want a creamier texture, use heavy cream instead of half-and-half. It will make the sauce thicker and richer.
  • Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy, sweet, and savory flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
  • Use Fresh Garlic: While garlic powder is convenient, fresh minced garlic will add more depth and intensity to the flavor.
  • Make the Sauce Spicy: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or a diced fresh chili to the sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Toast the Pasta Before Boiling: Toasting pasta in a dry pan for a few minutes adds a nutty flavor that enhances the overall dish.
  • Top with Parmesan and Mozzarella: For extra cheesy goodness, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan and melt mozzarella over the dish before serving.
  • Include Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add a savory, earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy chicken sauce.
  • Serve with a Side of Garlic Bread: Serve your Marry Me Chicken Pasta with homemade garlic bread for an extra indulgent meal.

Recipe Variations

Here are some fun variations of Marry Me Chicken Pasta:

  • Chicken and Shrimp: Add shrimp to the recipe along with the chicken for a seafood twist.
  • Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Bake: For a baked version, layer the chicken and sauce in a baking dish with mozzarella cheese and bake at 375°F until bubbly.
  • Zucchini Noodles: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles for a low-carb, gluten-free version.
  • Spinach and Artichoke: Add spinach and artichoke hearts for a creamy, hearty twist.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: While pasta dishes don’t always freeze well, you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop and toss with fresh pasta when ready to serve.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat.

Special Equipment

You’ll need these tools to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta:

  • Large Skillet: For cooking the chicken and making the sauce.
  • Tongs: To easily flip and remove the chicken from the skillet.
  • Grater: For fresh parmesan.
  • Pot for Pasta: For cooking the pasta.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
    Yes, chicken thighs will add a bit more flavor and juiciness to the dish.
  2. What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
    You can use roasted red peppers or fresh tomatoes if you prefer a different flavor profile.
  3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
    Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
  4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
    Yes, mozzarella or gouda can be used for a different cheesy flavor.
  5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
    You can use a dairy-free cream substitute and vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion! Featuring tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a rich parmesan sauce, this meal is both satisfying and irresistibly delicious.

Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner, a cozy family night, or simply craving a comforting pasta dish, Marry Me Chicken Pasta will have everyone falling in love with it. It’s quick, easy, and packed with bold flavors that are guaranteed to impress!

I’d love to see how your Marry Me Chicken Pasta turns out! Snap a photo, share it on Instagram, and tag me so I can admire your creation. Don’t forget to share any personal touches you added to the dish in the comments. Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!

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