Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that captures your heart with its creamy, flavorful sauce and tender chicken. This comforting recipe blends simple ingredients into a luscious meal that is perfect for dates, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in. With every bite, you’ll experience a rich combination of flavors that make this dish irresistible.
Why We Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
You might be wondering what sets Marry Me Chicken Pasta apart from other pasta dishes. It’s not just the creamy sauce or perfectly cooked chicken; it’s the harmony of all these elements coming together to create an enchanting meal. When you serve this dish, you’ll be met with satisfied smiles and requests for seconds, even for those who claim to be too full. It evokes feelings of warmth, love, and comfort, making every occasion feel special. The ease of preparation combined with impressive results ensures that you can whip it up ideal for busy weeknights or special celebrations.
Ingredients about Marry Me Chicken Pasta
To create this mouthwatering Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts – boneless and skinless for quick cooking
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or fettuccine work well)
- 1 cup heavy cream – for a rich culinary experience
- 1 cup chicken broth – adds depth and richness
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – enhances flavor and creaminess
- 2 cloves garlic – minced for a fragrant touch
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – for that classic Italian flair
- Salt and pepper to taste – for seasoning
- Fresh parsley – chopped, for a beautiful garnish
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Directions
To prepare your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, follow these straightforward steps that will lead you to a delicious meal:
- Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, pour in a splash of olive oil and let it warm up. While the oil is heating, season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Once the oil shimmers, add the chicken to the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a cutting board.
- Make the Sauce: Retrieve the same skillet to keep all the flavor. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant—this will infuse the oil with garlic goodness. Carefully pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously to blend the ingredients. Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until smooth. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, which will help thicken the sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet. Then, add the drained pasta and toss everything together gently to ensure all the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: When ready to serve, plate the pasta while it’s hot, making sure to get an ample amount of chicken on each plate. Finishing touches are important, so sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for added color and a hint of freshness.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta
When serving Marry Me Chicken Pasta, presentation can elevate the experience. Serve it in deep bowls or on flat plates, ensuring each portion receives a slice of chicken, a generous amount of sauce, and a sprinkle of parsley. Pair it with a light salad, such as a simple arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. Fresh bread, like a crusty baguette, is perfect for soaking up any remaining creamy sauce. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a family gathering, this dish is bound to impress.
Expert Tips: Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Choose the Right Pasta: While any pasta works, shapes that hold sauce well—like penne, fettuccine, or farfalle—are ideal for this creamy dish.
- Cook Chicken Properly: For juiciness, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer for the perfect doneness, making it succulent and tender.
- Don’t Skip the Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a flavor profile that enhances the sauce. Avoid using pre-minced garlic for the best taste.
- Thicken the Sauce: If your sauce is thinner than you’d like, let it simmer longer. The heat will help reduce the liquid, thickening it for a richer consistency.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning to your preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a lovely kick if you’re looking for something spicier.
How to Store Marry Me Chicken Pasta
If you find yourself with leftovers after making Marry Me Chicken Pasta, storing it correctly will keep the flavors intact. Allow the dish to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. For optimal freshness, store it in the refrigerator, where it will last for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary. You can also microwave it, but be cautious not to overheat it, which may result in dried out chicken.
Variation of Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Here are a few variations you might consider:
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables. You can also include spinach or kale for added nutrients and flavor.
- Add Some Heat: If you enjoy a kick, incorporate some diced chili peppers or crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce for a spicy twist.
- Extra Veggie Boost: Throw in some cherry tomatoes or peas while making the sauce for a pop of color and flavor that pairs beautifully with the creaminess.
- Cheesy Delight: For a cheesier experience, experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses mixed with Parmesan.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme either into the sauce or as a garnish for a fresh aroma and enhanced flavor profile.
FAQ
What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with creamy pasta and is dressed in a rich sauce of garlic, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese.
How can I make it healthier?
You can make Marry Me Chicken Pasta healthier by using whole grain pasta, reducing the amount of heavy cream, or substituting half of it with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Can I prepare it in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the components separately ahead of time, like cooking the chicken and pasta, but it’s best to combine everything just before serving to maintain the pasta’s texture.
What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Consider serving a light salad or garlic bread on the side. You can also add some fresh vegetables for a more balanced meal.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
It’s not the best candidate for freezing due to the cream sauce, which may separate upon thawing. However, if necessary, you can freeze it and then reheat it, adding some extra cream or broth to revive the sauce.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 2 pieces chicken breasts – boneless and skinless for quick cooking
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or fettuccine work well)
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream for a rich culinary experience
- 1 cup chicken broth adds depth and richness
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese enhances flavor and creaminess
- 2 cloves garlic – minced for a fragrant touch
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning for that classic Italian flair
- to taste Salt and pepper for seasoning
- as needed Fresh parsley – chopped for a beautiful garnish
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Preparing the Chicken
- In a skillet over medium heat, pour in a splash of olive oil and let it warm up.
- While the oil is heating, season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- Once the oil shimmers, add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and let it rest on a cutting board.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously.
- Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until smooth.
- Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer until the sauce thickens.
Combining Ingredients
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return to the skillet.
- Add the drained pasta and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated in sauce.
Serving
- Plate the pasta hot, making sure each portion includes chicken and ample sauce.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for added freshness.
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