Name: Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts, boneless, skinless, sliced thinly; Salt and Pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil, for searing; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice); 8 oz pasta (such as penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine); Fresh basil, for garnish

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Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dish that has captured hearts and palates alike. This creamy, flavorful pasta combines tender chicken breasts, sun-dried tomatoes, and a dreamy sauce that beckons for another bite. It’s rumored that if you serve this to your loved one, they might just want to commit to you for life—hence the name! Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a romantic evening, this recipe balances ease and elegance effortlessly.

Why you’ll love this dish

There are countless reasons to whip up Marry Me Chicken Pasta in your kitchen. For starters, this recipe is a one-pan wonder, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor. It can be on your table in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, yet it has that extra flair for special occasions. Kid-approved, this dish combines savory chicken and creamy sauce, making it a hit with even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s budget-friendly without sacrificing taste, proving that gourmet doesn’t have to be expensive.

“I made this for a dinner party, and everyone couldn’t stop raving about it! It’s now a staple in my household.” – A satisfied home cook

Preparing Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Getting ready to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta is straightforward and rewarding. Start by gathering your ingredients and getting your water boiling for the pasta. The chicken will be seared to golden perfection, followed by the creation of that luscious creamy sauce with the sun-dried tomatoes. Finally, you’ll combine everything for a pasta dish that feels dressed to impress.

Gather these items

To get started, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Chicken Breasts: 2 large, boneless, skinless, sliced thinly
Salt and Pepper: To taste
Olive Oil: 2 tbsp, for searing
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 1/3 cup, chopped
Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup
Heavy Cream: 1 cup
Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, freshly grated
Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 tsp (optional for spice)
Pasta: 8 oz, such as penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine
Fresh Basil: For garnish

Step-by-step instructions

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, season the sliced chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the sun-dried tomatoes, followed by chicken broth, heavy cream, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the pasta. Mix well, incorporating any remaining pasta water as necessary to achieve your desired consistency. Toss in the grated parmesan cheese and stir until creamy and well combined.
Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil for an aromatic finish.

Best ways to enjoy it

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is delicious just as it is, but there are several ways you can elevate the dining experience. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette to balance out the rich flavors. Garlic bread is also a fantastic choice to soak up that creamy sauce. Pair it with a chilled glass of white wine for a touch of elegance.

Keeping leftovers fresh

Storing leftovers properly is essential to maintaining the dish’s flavor and texture. Allow any leftovers to cool before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of milk or extra chicken broth to bring back that creamy texture.

Helpful cooking tips

To enhance your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips. Choosing high-quality olive oil will elevate the flavor of the dish significantly. For an even richer sauce, try adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. If you like a bit of crunch, topping the dish with toasted pine nuts or walnuts can add a delightful texture contrast.

Recipe variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Consider swapping the heavy cream for a lighter yogurt version if you’re looking for a healthier twist. You can also experiment with the type of pasta you’ve chosen; whole wheat or gluten-free options work well too. Adding vegetables like spinach or asparagus can boost nutrition and flavor, while using different herbs like thyme or oregano can give it a refreshing spin.

Your questions answered

What is the prep time for Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Prep time typically takes around 10 minutes, while the cooking process is about 20 minutes, making the total time roughly 30 minutes.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes! You can use half-and-half, Greek yogurt, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option, but be mindful of the consistency.

How can I safely store leftovers?

To safely store your leftovers, let them cool before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Always reheat thoroughly before serving.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Why you’ll love this dish