Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This rich and creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is perfect for a romantic dinner or a family gathering. Combining tender chicken, al dente penne, and a mouthwatering sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce, this dish delivers on flavor while being simple to prepare. Whether you’re impressing your partner or serving a weeknight meal, this pasta is sure to please everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan create a rich sauce that elevates simple chicken pasta to gourmet status.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for romantic dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
• Packed with Comfort: The creamy texture and delightful spices make this pasta comforting and satisfying.
• Easy Cleanup: With just one skillet required for cooking, you’ll spend more time enjoying your meal and less time cleaning up.

Tools and Preparation

Cooking Marry Me Chicken Pasta requires just a few essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: A wide surface area allows for even cooking of chicken and easy mixing of the sauce.
• Pot for Boiling Pasta: Ensures your penne is perfectly cooked al dente, which is key for this dish’s texture.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Pasta

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

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning

• Fresh basil, for garnish

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How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes until fully cooked (no longer pink inside).
4. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in flour, cooking for about 1 minute to form a paste.
4. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese until smooth.
5. Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning; adjust salt and pepper if needed.
6. Let sauce simmer for several minutes until it thickens.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with drained pasta.
2. Stir well to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
3. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Enjoy this irresistible Marry Me Chicken Pasta with garlic bread or a crisp green salad!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Serving Marry Me Chicken Pasta can elevate your dining experience, whether it’s a cozy family meal or a romantic dinner. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement this rich dish.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy garlic bread is perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing add a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil provide a light and flavorful side.

Offer Extra Parmesan

• Parmesan Cheese: Provide freshly grated parmesan on the side for those who love extra cheese on their pasta.

Serve with Wine

• White Wine: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the flavors of Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To make sure your Marry Me Chicken Pasta turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh sun-dried tomatoes and high-quality parmesan cheese enhance flavor significantly.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper levels before serving for a customized flavor.
• Simmer Sauce Well: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps thicken it and brings all the flavors together.
• Garnish Generously: Fresh basil adds color and freshness, making your dish visually appealing.

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Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Adding side dishes can enhance your meal experience even further. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside your Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious touch and balances the richness of the pasta.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Tossed with olive oil, roasted asparagus brings crunch and flavor to your plate.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting side that pairs well with chicken.
4. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cheeses, and cured meats provides variety and keeps things interesting.
5. Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, bruschetta adds a fresh appetizer option.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb alternative, zucchini noodles can be served alongside or mixed in with pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking for a flavor boost.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the penne pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions for al dente perfection.
• Rushing the sauce: If you rush the sauce-making process, it may not thicken properly. Allow it to simmer gently for a few minutes to achieve the right consistency.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap parmesan or imitation sun-dried tomatoes can ruin your dish. Invest in high-quality ingredients for rich, authentic flavors.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping fresh basil or extra parmesan leaves your dish looking plain. Garnish generously to enhance both presentation and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of cream or broth to a skillet over low heat, stirring until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy pasta dish featuring chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan cheese. It’s named for its deliciousness that could win anyone’s heart!

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While penne is recommended, feel free to substitute with any pasta type you have on hand, such as fettuccine or spaghetti.

How can I customize Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. Adjust the spice levels by adding red pepper flakes if desired.

Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just follow the storage instructions above.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful blend of flavors that will impress any guest at your dinner table. Its creamy texture paired with sun-dried tomatoes creates an irresistible dish that’s perfect for customizing. Whether you want extra veggies or spice, this recipe allows for flexibility while delivering on taste. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal that feels special!