When it comes to comfort food, Marry Me Chicken Pasta takes the cake—or should I say, the plate! This recipe is a creamy, indulgent pasta dish that has gained a reputation for being so delicious that it might just inspire a marriage proposal. Whether you’re looking to impress someone special, or simply want to treat yourself to a comforting meal, this dish is a surefire hit.
Who is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves rich, creamy pasta but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home cook, this dish is easy to make and can be whipped up on a busy weeknight or for a more romantic dinner occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The sauce is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor thanks to the sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and parmesan.
- It’s easy to customize with different proteins or vegetables, making it versatile for various tastes.
- You’ll only need one skillet to prepare the chicken and sauce, which means minimal cleanup.
Ingredients Overview
To make Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry:
Chicken and Pasta
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 10 ounces of penne pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
- Salt and pepper for seasoning
- Olive oil to sauté the chicken
Sauce Essentials
- Butter, garlic, and flour to create the base of the sauce
- Chicken broth, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese for creaminess and flavor
- Sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning for extra depth
- Fresh basil for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta
Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside. This gives you time to focus on preparing the chicken and sauce.
2. Cook the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to create a paste. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Once the mixture starts to thicken, add in the parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
4. Add Flavor
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to thicken even more.
5. Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Stir everything together, making sure the pasta and chicken are well coated with the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of extra parmesan before serving.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the chicken: To avoid dry chicken, make sure you remove it from the skillet as soon as it’s no longer pink inside.
- Simmer the sauce gently: A high heat can cause the cream to curdle, so keep the temperature low while making the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Depending on the saltiness of your broth and parmesan, you may want to add more or less salt.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this recipe! Here are a few ideas:
- Swap proteins: Use shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Add vegetables: Try adding spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a nutritious boost.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, but the stove will give you a better texture.
Food and Drink Pairings
For sides, you can’t go wrong with a simple green salad, German Potato Pancakes, or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread is another great addition to soak up that delicious sauce. As for drinks, a glass of crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not draining the sun-dried tomatoes properly can make the sauce too oily.
- Overcooking the pasta—aim for al dente so it holds up well in the sauce.
- Forgetting to taste the sauce—adjust seasonings as you go!
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a show-stopping dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving comfort food, this recipe has you covered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. When ready to serve, simply reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
2. Can I freeze it?
While you can freeze this dish, the cream in the sauce may separate when thawed. If you plan to freeze it, consider using half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.
3. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may be less thick. For a dairy-free option, try coconut milk.
4. Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply swap out the regular pasta for a gluten-free variety and use gluten-free flour for the sauce.
5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter, cream, and parmesan with dairy-free alternatives like plant-based cream and nutritional yeast.