Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken, tender penne pasta, and a rich, sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion, with its irresistible blend of flavors that might just earn you a marriage proposal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: A luscious parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes!
• Restaurant-Quality Flavor: Tastes like a gourmet meal but made in one pan.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Elegant enough for a date night but simple enough for a family dinner.

Ingredients

Chicken Pasta

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

Sauce

• 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

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

4. Cut 1 ½ pounds of chicken into 1-inch pieces. Season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper.
5. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
7. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

8. In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
9. Add 2 teaspoons minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
10. Stir in 3 tablespoons flour, whisking constantly, to form a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
11. Slowly whisk in 2 cups chicken broth until smooth.
12. Pour in 1 cup heavy cream, stirring continuously.
13. Add 1 cup grated parmesan cheese and whisk until melted and incorporated.

Step 4: Add Seasonings and Combine

14. Stir in 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained), 1 teaspoon paprika, and 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning.
15. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
16. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat.
17. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

18. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil and additional parmesan cheese.
19. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips and Variations

• Check Chicken Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Add Some Spice: Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated parmesan melts better and enhances flavor.
• Swap the Pasta: Try fettuccine, rigatoni, or bowtie pasta for variety.
• Make it Lighter: Substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions

• With Bread: Serve with garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up the delicious sauce.
• With a Side Salad: A fresh Caesar or arugula salad complements the richness of the pasta.
• With Roasted Veggies: Try roasted asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheating:

• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes! Chicken thighs will add even more juiciness and flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Cook everything and store it separately. Reheat and combine before serving.

Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
A: Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy sauce, which may separate upon reheating.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Whether you’re making it for family, friends, or a special date night, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds. Try it tonight and see why it’s a recipe worth falling in love with!

Print