When it comes to the art of cooking, few dishes have the power to captivate hearts like Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together delicious flavors, comforting textures, and an irresistible aroma that tingles your senses. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner for a loved one or simply treating yourself, Marry Me Chicken Pasta delivers on all fronts. The combination of tender chicken, rich sauces, and vibrant ingredients make it a dish that you won’t forget, and one that may just inspire some romantic proposals!
Why We Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
The allure of Marry Me Chicken Pasta lies in its remarkable blend of flavors and its ease of preparation. You don’t have to be a culinary expert to whip up this delightful dish. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. The seasoned chicken thighs are pan-seared to perfection, while the creamy sauce envelops the pasta, creating a satisfying meal that feels gourmet without the fuss. Not only is this dish hearty, but it is also adaptable for various dietary needs, including gluten-free options. Each bite exudes comfort, making it an ideal centerpiece for gatherings, date nights, or quiet dinners at home.
Ingredients about Marry Me Chicken Pasta
To prepare this delectable Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you’ll need a selection of fresh ingredients that come together to create a mouth-watering dish. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
- 3 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 3/4 tbsp smoked sweet paprika
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil
- 12 oz farfalle pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp dried shallots
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp minced onion
- 3 tbsp Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 gluten-free flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded parmesan
- 1/4 cup diced sun-dried tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup diced spinach
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked sweet paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Chopped fresh basil (for garnish)
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Directions
Creating Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a simple and enjoyable process. Follow these precise steps to ensure each component shines:
- Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with smoked sweet paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Make sure every piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
- In a spacious skillet, heat the sun-dried tomato oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs. Brown the chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust. After roughly 10 to 12 minutes of cooking, the chicken should be cooked through and juicy.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to rest. This step helps retain its moisture and flavor.
- While the chicken is resting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Don’t forget to drain the pasta once done and set it aside.
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Then, add the dried shallots, minced garlic, and minced onion. Sauté these ingredients for about 2 to 3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent.
- Next, stir in the gluten-free flour to create a roux. This will thicken your sauce beautifully as it cooks.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- Following this, add the heavy cream, shredded parmesan cheese, diced sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, diced spinach, and additional seasonings. Stir the mixture until everything is well-combined and the cheese melts into the rich sauce.
- Taking your sliced chicken, return it to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss all the ingredients together until the pasta is evenly coated with the luscious sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, you can adjust it by adding a splash of the reserved pasta water.
- Finally, serve your Marry Me Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil for a bright finish.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Serving Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a joy in itself. Present your masterpiece in a large, inviting dish where everyone can help themselves. You can pair it with a light garden salad or some warm crusty bread on the side to soak up any extra sauce. Don’t forget to sprinkle some additional parmesan or fresh basil over the top before serving; it adds a touch of elegance. This dish can easily be the star of a romantic dinner at home or a comforting family meal during a busy weeknight. Regardless of the occasion, it’s sure to impress!
Expert Tips: Marry Me Chicken Pasta
To elevate your Marry Me Chicken Pasta experience even further, here are some expert tips:
- Chicken Selection: While chicken thighs provide a juicy and flavorful option, you can also use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as breasts may cook faster.
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to match your taste. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick!
- Pasta Choice: Farfalle is a great choice for this dish, but other pasta types like penne or fettuccine can also work beautifully. Just keep an eye on the cooking time!
- Creaminess Adjustment: If you prefer a lighter sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Garnish: Fresh basil is a classic topping, but you could also experiment with arugula or thyme for different flavor notes.
How to Store Marry Me Chicken Pasta
If you happen to have any leftovers of this delicious meal, storing them is quite simple. Allow the pasta to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help restore that creamy texture you love.
Variation of Marry Me Chicken Pasta
One of the fantastic aspects of Marry Me Chicken Pasta is its versatility. Here are a few variations you might want to try:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. You can enhance the flavors with additional herbs and spices.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce while cooking for a spicy version that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Seafood Twist: For a seafood flair, substitute the chicken for shrimp. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and tender before combining them with the sauce and pasta.
- Vegan-Friendly: Replace the chicken with chickpeas and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions about Marry Me Chicken Pasta
What makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta so special?
Marry Me Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, a rich creamy sauce, and vibrant veggies, creating a perfect blend of flavors that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just assemble and cook the pasta when you are ready to serve.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! With the use of gluten-free flour and pasta, this recipe can cater to those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Certainly! While farfalle is a great choice, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape as long as you adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If your sauce is too thin, simply let it simmer for a bit longer to allow it to reduce. You can also incorporate more gluten-free flour to thicken it up.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot for Pasta
Ingredients
- 3 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
- 0.75 tablespoon Smoked Sweet Paprika
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
- 0.75 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 tablespoon Sun-Dried Tomato Oil
- 12 oz Farfalle Pasta
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 2 tablespoons Dried Shallots
- 2 tablespoons Minced Garlic
- 1 tablespoon Minced Onion
- 3 tablespoons Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 Gluten-Free Flour
- 2 cups Chicken Broth
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Shredded Parmesan
- 0.25 cup Diced Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste
- 1 cup Diced Spinach
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning For the sauce
- 0.5 teaspoon Smoked Sweet Paprika For the sauce
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt For the sauce
Instructions
- Season chicken thighs with smoked sweet paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat sun-dried tomato oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken and brown for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Remove chicken from skillet and let rest.
- Cook farfalle pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in the same skillet. Add dried shallots, minced garlic, and minced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in gluten-free flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add heavy cream, shredded parmesan, diced sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, diced spinach, and seasonings. Stir until combined and cheese is melted.
- Return sliced chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss until pasta is coated. Adjust sauce with pasta water if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
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