Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that can turn any meal into a special occasion. With its creamy Parmesan sauce, tender chicken, and sun-dried tomatoes, it’s perfect for date nights or family dinners. The ease of preparation combined with rich flavors makes it a standout recipe that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish takes only 40 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan creates a luxurious sauce that enhances each bite.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap the pasta type or add your favorite vegetables to personalize this dish.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a romantic meal, this chicken pasta fits right in.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything is cooked in one skillet, saving you time on washing dishes.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking this delicious Marry Me Chicken Pasta, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Skillet: A sturdy skillet allows you to cook the chicken perfectly while making the sauce in one pan.
- Cooking Pot: Essential for boiling your pasta; look for one with a lid to speed up cooking.
- Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients and seasoning your chicken before cooking.
Ingredients
This creamy marry me chicken pasta is a simple, cozy dish with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich, silky Parmesan sauce. Perfect with your favorite pasta, it’s easy to make and full of flavor!
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless (skinless chicken breasts, diced)
For the Pasta
- 10 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
For the Sauce
- 2 tbsp seasoned oil from sun-dried tomatoes
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (to coat the chicken)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (thinly diced)
- 1¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- ½ oz Torn Fresh basil (for garnish)
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil 10 oz of pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water for later use. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Coat the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, toss 4 diced chicken breasts with 2 tbsp cornstarch, 2 tsp dried oregano, a pinch of salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tbsp of oil from sun-dried tomatoes in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden and crispy, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes
Melt 1 tbsp butter in the same skillet. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 cup thinly diced sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
Stir in ¾ cup chicken broth along with 1¼ cups heavy cream. Simmer for about 3-5 minutes while stirring occasionally. Add in 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and thickened.
Step 6: Add Chicken to Sauce
Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Let it simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes so it can absorb all those amazing flavors.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together to coat well. Use reserved pasta water as needed to adjust consistency if too thick.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Garnish your Marry Me Chicken Pasta with torn fresh basil or parsley along with extra Parmesan cheese. Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Serving Marry Me Chicken Pasta is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creating a delightful dining experience. Pair it with the right accompaniments to elevate your meal.
With a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing complement the pasta’s richness.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.
With Garlic Bread
- Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter adds a crunchy texture and is perfect for mopping up sauce.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: A cheesy twist on the classic, this option is indulgent and pairs beautifully with the pasta.
With Wine
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay enhances the dish’s flavors and provides a lovely balance.
- Red Wine: If you prefer red, a light Pinot Noir can also work well with the chicken and creamy sauce.
With Roasted Vegetables
- Seasonal Veggies: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color, nutrition, and a slight char that complements the dish.
- Grilled Corn: Sweet grilled corn on the cob is another great side that adds sweetness to your meal.
With Extra Parmesan
- Parmesan Topping: Providing extra grated Parmesan cheese at the table allows guests to customize their dishes for an extra burst of flavor.
How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta
To achieve the best results with your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s important to pay attention to details. Here are some tips for perfection.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh chicken and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for maximum flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook your pasta al dente; it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: Use reserved pasta water to make your sauce creamier if it becomes too thick.
- Taste Before Serving: Always taste your dish before serving; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps enhance flavors as they meld together.
Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Chicken Pasta can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some excellent suggestions:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting base that balances the pasta’s richness.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy option that adds color and crunch without overwhelming flavors.
- Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens dressed lightly helps cleanse the palate between bites of rich pasta.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring out natural sweetness that complements the savory chicken.
- Risotto: A creamy risotto can be an indulgent side that pairs well with chicken while keeping a similar texture profile.
- Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables adds variety and makes for great finger food alongside dinner.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it can become mushy. Always follow the package instructions and check for al dente.
- Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Remember to taste as you go and adjust with salt and pepper.
- Skipping the cornstarch coating: Failing to coat the chicken can result in a less crispy texture. Make sure to toss the chicken well in cornstarch before cooking.
- Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese may not melt well and can affect the sauce’s creaminess. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for the best results.
- Adding chicken too early: If you add the chicken back into the sauce too soon, it won’t absorb enough flavor. Let it simmer in the sauce for a good five minutes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Make sure to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth and heat over medium until warmed through, stirring frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about Marry Me Chicken Pasta that might help you.
What makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta special?
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is special because it’s rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan creates an irresistible dish that feels like a warm hug.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! You can use any pasta you prefer such as penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine. Each type will bring its own texture but will still pair wonderfully with the sauce.
How can I customize my Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or asparagus for extra nutrition. You can also substitute shrimp or tofu for a different twist on this classic dish.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using whole grain pasta and reducing the amount of heavy cream by replacing it with Greek yogurt or almond milk.
Final Thoughts
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy sauce and tender chicken make it both comforting and satisfying. Customize it with your favorite ingredients or keep it simple—the choice is yours! Try this recipe today and enjoy its versatility at your dinner table.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This rich and creamy dish features tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a silky Parmesan sauce that creates a symphony of flavors. Perfect for date nights or family gatherings, this one-skillet recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. With each bite, you’ll experience a delightful mix of textures and tastes that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Customize it with your favorite pasta or add seasonal vegetables to make it your own. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless (skinless) chicken breasts, diced
- 10 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, diced
- 1¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Olive oil from sun-dried tomatoes
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente; reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
- In a mixing bowl, coat chicken with cornstarch, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook chicken in olive oil until golden (5-6 minutes); set aside.
- Sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes in the same skillet for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream; simmer for 3-5 minutes.
- Add Parmesan cheese until melted; return chicken to skillet and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Toss cooked pasta with the sauce; adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
