Marry Me Chicken Pasta

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Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a love story on a plate. With its creamy, flavorful sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish has won over hearts and appetites everywhere.

If you’re looking for a dinner recipe that’s rich, satisfying, and sure to impress, this is the one. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving comfort food, this dish delivers with every bite.

Why is it Called “Marry Me Chicken”?

The name “Marry Me Chicken” comes from the idea that this dish is so delicious, it might just inspire a marriage proposal! The creamy, garlicky sauce infused with parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes creates an irresistible combination that leaves everyone at the table in awe. Add pasta to the mix, and you have a restaurant-worthy meal that feels indulgent yet easy enough to make at home.

Key Ingredients:

Each ingredient in this Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe plays an important role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Here’s what you need and why:

Chicken & Pasta

• Boneless, skinless chicken – The star of the dish, providing a tender and juicy protein that absorbs all the delicious sauce.
• Penne pasta – Holds onto the creamy sauce inside its ridges, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
• Salt & Pepper – Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and sauce.
• Olive oil – Used to sauté the chicken, giving it a light golden sear and added richness.

The Creamy Sauce

• Butter – Adds a rich, silky texture to the sauce, balancing out the flavors.
• Garlic – A fragrant, essential ingredient that infuses the dish with a deep, savory aroma.
• Flour – Helps thicken the sauce, giving it the perfect creamy consistency.
• Chicken broth – Provides a flavorful base for the sauce while keeping it light and not overly heavy.
• Heavy cream – Creates a luxurious, creamy texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty flavor and enhances the overall richness of the sauce.
• Sun-dried tomatoes – The secret ingredient that provides a slightly tangy, slightly sweet depth of flavor.
• Paprika – Gives the dish a hint of smokiness and warmth.
• Dried Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that ties everything together, adding an authentic Italian touch.
• Fresh basil – A fragrant garnish that adds freshness and color to the final dish.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta:

This dish comes together in just a few simple steps. Follow these instructions for a flawless result every time:

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 the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Pro Tip: Save about ½ cup of pasta water before draining! If the sauce gets too thick later, you can use it to loosen the consistency without diluting the flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the boneless, skinless chicken into 1-inch bite-sized pieces.
2. Season with salt and pepper for added flavor.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes until it’s golden brown and no longer pink inside.
5. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the flour to create a smooth paste.
4. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and mix well.
6. Add the grated parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and fully incorporated.
7. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and dried Italian seasoning.
8. Simmer the sauce for a few minutes until it reaches a creamy consistency.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce.
2. Add the drained penne pasta and stir everything together until well coated.
3. Let the dish sit for a minute or two to allow the pasta to soak up the sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the top for a burst of freshness.
2. Add extra parmesan cheese for even more cheesy goodness.
3. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Pro Tip: If you like a thinner sauce, add a bit of reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Tips for Success:

• Use high-quality parmesan cheese. Freshly grated parmesan melts better and provides a richer flavor than pre-shredded varieties.
• Don’t overcook the pasta. Cooking it just until al dente ensures it holds up in the sauce without getting mushy.
• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken. A quick marinade with olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning can enhance the overall taste.
• Sun-dried tomatoes in oil work best. They add extra richness to the dish compared to dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Protein Swap: Instead of chicken, try shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream and nutritional yeast for parmesan.
• Pasta Alternatives: Use gluten-free pasta, whole wheat pasta, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
• Add Veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers make great additions to boost the nutritional value.

What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta:

This dish is hearty on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal:

• Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce.
• Side salad – A light green salad with balsamic dressing balances the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted vegetables – Asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini complement the creamy sauce beautifully.

Final Thoughts:

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dish that truly lives up to its name. Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, it’s a meal that’s guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re making it for date night, a family dinner, or simply to treat yourself, this pasta will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

So, will this dish inspire a marriage proposal? Maybe! But one thing’s for sure—it will win over everyone at the table. Enjoy!

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