Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner at home or a romantic date night, this Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is sure to impress. The combination of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy parmesan sauce creates a meal that’s not only delicious but also elegant. Get ready to make a dish so flavorful that it might just lead to a proposal!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken & Pasta
• For the Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
• Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Sauce
• Step 4: Whisk in Liquid Ingredients
• Step 5: Combine Everything
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• With Fresh Herbs
• Pairing with Wine
• On a Platter
• How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Reheating Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes this Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe special?
• Can I use different pasta types?
• How do I customize my Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The creamy parmesan sauce paired with sun-dried tomatoes creates a rich flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for both casual family dinners and special occasions, this pasta can be dressed up or down as needed.
• Comfort Food: The creamy texture and hearty ingredients make this dish incredibly comforting, ideal for satisfying cravings.
• Easy Cleanup: With minimal pots and pans required, you’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet ensures even cooking of the chicken while allowing enough room for the sauce.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A good pot helps cook the penne evenly, ensuring the perfect al dente texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best flavors in your creamy sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while mixing the ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Pasta

• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 10 ounces penne pasta
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• Fresh basil, chopped
• Additional parmesan cheese (optional)

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How to Make Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until fully cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly until it forms a roux.

Step 4: Whisk in Liquid Ingredients

Slowly whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, and grated parmesan cheese until smooth. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Simmer the sauce for a few minutes until slightly thickened. Return cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Stir everything to coat evenly in the sauce.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and additional parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Serving your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta can elevate the dining experience, making it feel special whether it’s a family dinner or a romantic date night. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with basil: Adding freshly chopped basil not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color to your dish.
• Sprinkle with parsley: Chopped parsley can add freshness and a subtle earthiness that complements the creamy sauce.

Pairing with Wine

• Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay pairs beautifully, complementing the creaminess of the dish.
• Pinot Grigio: This light white wine offers crispness that balances the richness of the pasta.

On a Platter

• Family-style serving: Present the pasta in a large bowl on the table, allowing everyone to serve themselves for a cozy, communal feel.
• Individual plates: For a more formal touch, plate each serving individually and garnish with extra parmesan cheese.

How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Perfecting your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta will ensure it’s consistently delicious. Follow these tips for an exceptional result every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality parmesan cheese will enhance the flavors significantly.
• Don’t rush the roux: Take your time when cooking the flour; this step is crucial for achieving a smooth sauce.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you go; adding salt and pepper in small increments helps you avoid over-seasoning.
• Keep pasta al dente: Cooking your penne just before it’s fully tender ensures it holds up well when mixed with the sauce.
• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to include vegetables like spinach or peas for added nutrition and color.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Choosing suitable side dishes can enhance your meal while balancing flavors. Here are some excellent side options to serve alongside your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection add flavor and nutrients.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy green option that complements the dish well.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a vibrant side that’s easy to prepare.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil adds a burst of freshness before the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overcooking the chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken until it’s just done. Overcooking can make it dry and tough.
• Ignoring the pasta water: Reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid can help adjust the sauce’s consistency.
• Not seasoning properly: Taste your sauce as you go. Adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors throughout the dish.
• Skipping the simmering step: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps thicken it and meld flavors. Don’t rush this process!
• Using low-quality cheese: For a creamy texture, opt for freshly grated parmesan instead of pre-grated versions. It melts better.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure it cools completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Consider portioning into smaller containers for easy meal prep.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add broth or cream if the sauce is too thick.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe special?

This dish combines tender chicken with a rich creamy sauce and sun-dried tomatoes, creating a meal that is both comforting and gourmet.

Can I use different pasta types?

Yes! While penne works well, you can substitute with any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine or rotini.

How do I customize my Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for quick meals later on.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta options that suit your dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to special date nights. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spices. Give it a try; you might find it becomes a new family favorite!

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