Marry Me Chicken & Pasta
Marry Me Chicken & Pasta: A Love Story in Every Bite
What’s better than a creamy, savory chicken dish? Pairing it with tender pasta! Introducing Marry Me Chicken Pasta, the ultimate comfort meal that combines the rich flavors of the beloved Marry Me Chicken with everyone’s favorite carb. Perfect for date nights, cozy dinners, or simply when you need a little culinary love in your life.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Creamy and Decadent: A luscious Parmesan cream sauce infused with garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Juicy chicken and perfectly cooked pasta in every bite.
- Easy to Make: Ready in about 40 minutes, it’s a weeknight favorite that feels gourmet.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (optional)
Garnish:
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest, then slice into strips or cubes.
3. Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
- Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce thickens.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes, if using.
4. Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Gently fold in the sliced chicken.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up every last bit of the creamy sauce.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy flavors.
Why It’s Called “Marry Me Chicken Pasta”
Legend has it that this dish is so good, it might inspire a marriage proposal—or at the very least, a second helping! The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a meal that’s as comforting as it is memorable.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes in oil make all the difference.
- Double the Sauce: If you love extra sauce, feel free to increase the cream and broth proportions.
- Customize It: Add spinach, mushrooms, or even a splash of white wine for a personal twist.
Make It Your Own
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a dish everyone can enjoy.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat lovers.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re impressing someone special or treating yourself, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. It’s comforting, flavorful, and oh-so-delicious—just like love at first bite.
Cook this once, and it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen forever.
