Picture this: a cozy dinner setting, the aroma of garlic wafting through the air, and a plate of creamy pasta topped with tender chicken waiting for you. This delightful meal is none other than Marry Me Chicken Pasta—a dish so delicious it might just make someone fall in love with you! With its comforting flavors and simple ingredients, this pasta recipe is sure to impress whether you’re cooking for a special date or just a regular family night.
Why We Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a fan favorite for several reasons. First off, it’s incredibly flavorful—each bite bursts with the richness of cream, savory chicken, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Moreover, the combination of penne pasta and a luscious sauce makes it hearty enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites.
What’s special about this dish is that it brings together easy cooking techniques and fresh ingredients, resulting in a fabulous meal that looks and tastes far more sophisticated than the effort put into making it. You get a one-pan meal that not only saves on cleanup but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s a hassle-free way to create memorable dining experiences.
Whether you’re in a romantic mood or simply want to treat yourself, this pasta dish is ready to elevate your dining table to a whole new level!
Ingredients About Marry Me Chicken Pasta
To whip up a delicious serving of Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 10 ounces penne pasta
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil for garnish
This combination of ingredients captures the heart of Marry Me Chicken Pasta, creating vibrant flavors and a comforting texture that you’ll savor with every forkful.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Making Marry Me Chicken Pasta is as easy as pie. This step-by-step guide will help you navigate the process and have this dish ready in no time.
Cook the Penne Pasta: Begin by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Once al dente, drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.
Season the Chicken: While your pasta cooks, take your diced chicken and season it with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning will ensure that your chicken packs a flavor punch.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Then, sprinkle in the flour, stirring quickly to form a paste.
Add the Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream until smooth. Continue stirring and allow it to come to a gentle simmer.
Mix in the Cheese and Tomatoes: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce thickens. Next, fold in the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning, allowing all the flavors to blend harmoniously.
Combine Everything: Finally, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, adding the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together to ensure that the pasta and chicken are well-coated in the creamy sauce.
Serve and Garnish: Once combined, serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil and more parmesan if desired. Enjoy the love and flavors that come with each delicious bite!
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Serving Marry Me Chicken Pasta is all about presentation and making the experience enjoyable for everyone at the table. Here are some tips to elevate your serving:
Plate with Care: Use pasta bowls or deep plates to serve the dish. Twirl the pasta for an elegant look, and place the chicken on top.
Garnish Wisely: Fresh basil adds a burst of color and freshness to your dish. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the top before serving. You can also grate extra parmesan for added visual appeal and flavor.
Pair with Sides: This pasta already feels like a complete meal, but you can complement it with a simple green salad or garlic bread to add variety to the table.
Create the Atmosphere: Set a cozy atmosphere with candles and soft music. Presenting the dish in a pleasing environment enhances the overall dining experience.
Whether it’s a casual meal or a romantic dinner, the way you serve this dish can truly make it feel special.
Expert Tips: Marry Me Chicken Pasta
To make the best possible Marry Me Chicken Pasta, consider these expert tips:
Chicken Selection: Opt for quality chicken breasts as they remain tender and juicy when cooked. Consider using thighs for even more flavor, but adjust cooking time as needed.
Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow your sauce to simmer long enough to develop rich flavors. Be sure to adjust the consistency; if it’s too thick, add a little more chicken broth!
Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to enhance the dish with your favorite herbs or spices. Adding a touch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
Manage Cheese: Use freshly grated parmesan rather than pre-grated for a creamier texture. The difference in taste is substantial and well worth the effort.
Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store the dish in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 3 days.
How to Store Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Storing your Marry Me Chicken Pasta is simple and ensures you can enjoy it even after the initial meal:
Refrigerate Properly: Allow the pasta to cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh and flavorful.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or a little bit of cream to loosen the sauce. Stir often to prevent burning.
Freezing: If you want to freeze the dish, use a freezer-safe container. Note that the texture might change slightly upon thawing and reheating, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
By storing it properly, you ensure that every bite remains delicious and cozy, just like the first time you made it!
Variation of Marry Me Chicken Pasta
There are many ways to tweak Marry Me Chicken Pasta to suit your taste buds. Here are some variations to try:
Protein Swaps: Instead of chicken, you could use shrimp or even cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Each will provide a unique twist to the dish.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with your choice of veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Sauté them until tender for a hearty and colorful dish.
Different Cheeses: While parmesan is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or provolone. These can provide a different, yet equally comforting, flavor profile.
Adding Greens: For a health boost, add spinach or kale at the end of cooking, allowing them to wilt into the sauce. This not only enhances nutrition but also adds a beautiful color to the dish.
Pasta Types: If penne isn’t your favorite, try other pasta shapes like fusilli or rigatoni. These will catch the creamy sauce well and offer a delightful twist.
This versatility means that Marry Me Chicken Pasta can easily adapt to your dietary preferences while still being equally delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions about Marry Me Chicken Pasta
What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a flavorful dish made with chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta, famous for its delightful blend of ingredients that many find irresistible.
Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and just cook the pasta right before serving. This makes for a quick assembly when you’re ready to eat.
Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta healthy?
While it includes rich ingredients like cream and cheese, you can modify the dish by using low-fat cream or adding more vegetables for a healthier option.
What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Salads, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make excellent sides to accompany this dish.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb. boneless skinless chicken cut into 1-inch pieces
- 10 oz. penne pasta
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. pepper
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
- 3 Tbsp. butter
- 2 tsp. garlic minced
- 3 Tbsp. flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese grated
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes drained
- 1 tsp. paprika
- 2 tsp. dried Italian seasoning
- fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and stir quickly to form a paste.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream until smooth. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens. Add in the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning, mixing well.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and additional parmesan cheese if desired.
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