Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that features tender chicken, a rich creamy parmesan sauce, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly cooked penne pasta. This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant date night. Its flavor and creamy texture are so irresistible that it’s rumored to inspire marriage proposals!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of total time, you can whip up this delicious meal without stress.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of creamy parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes creates a rich taste that will impress anyone.
• Versatile Dinner Option: Suitable for both casual family dinners and special occasions, it fits perfectly into any menu.
• Comfort Food Classic: The creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it the ultimate comfort food for any palate.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient. Here are some essentials for making the Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cooking pot
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and making the sauce in one pan, reducing cleanup time.
• Cooking pot: Essential for boiling pasta to perfection, ensuring a great texture.

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Pasta

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

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose 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
• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh basil, chopped
• Additional parmesan cheese (optional)

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How to Make Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

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

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly to create a roux.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Slowly whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Taste and adjust with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Simmer Sauce

Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return cooked chicken and penne pasta to the skillet. Stir everything together gently until evenly coated with sauce.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and additional parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy this delicious Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not just a dish; it’s an experience. Whether you are serving it for a casual family dinner or a romantic date night, presentation can elevate the meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan cheese.
• Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing contrast.

Add Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread – Toasted baguette slices spread with garlic butter, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread – A twist on the classic with melted cheese on top of buttery garlic toast for extra indulgence.

Serve with Wine

• Chardonnay – A buttery white wine that complements the richness of the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Pinot Noir – A light red wine that adds a nice balance to the dish without overpowering the flavors.

Garnish Thoughtfully

• Fresh Basil – Adds a pop of color and freshness to your plate.
• Extra Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle on top enhances flavor and makes the dish look more appealing.

How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is not only delicious but also visually stunning.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh chicken and high-quality parmesan cheese make a significant difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cook it al dente so it holds up well when mixed with the sauce.
• Adjust Seasonings to Taste – Always taste your sauce before serving; a dash of salt or pepper can elevate the flavors.
• Whisk Slowly for Smoothness – When adding liquids to create the sauce, whisk slowly to avoid lumps from forming.
• Let It Simmer – Allowing the sauce to simmer helps develop deeper flavors and ensures everything is well combined.
• Garnish Just Before Serving – Add fresh herbs and cheese right before serving for maximum freshness and visual appeal.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta can enhance your meal. The right sides complement its rich flavors while providing texture contrasts. Here are some perfect side dishes to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and crunch while balancing out the creaminess of the pasta.
2. Roasted Asparagus – Tender asparagus spears roasted until crisp-tender provide an earthy flavor that pairs well.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting side option, ideal for soaking up extra sauce.
4. Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the heaviness of pasta.
5. Baked Zucchini Fries – Crispy zucchini fries add a fun crunch and are an excellent low-carb option alongside your meal.
6. Herbed Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf cooked with herbs serves as a perfect base for extra sauce and chicken pieces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for 6-8 minutes until fully cooked, ensuring it’s juicy and tender.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can lead to bland pasta. Be generous with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process for a flavorful dish.
• Ignoring the sauce consistency: If your sauce is too thick, it can clump up. Always have extra broth or pasta water on hand to adjust the texture.
• Skipping garnishes: Garnishes like fresh basil and additional parmesan add depth to your dish. Don’t skip this step for a more vibrant presentation and taste.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Poor-quality chicken or cheese can impact flavor. Use fresh ingredients for the best results, especially with parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or cream while reheating. Stir frequently until heated evenly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe special?

This recipe blends tender chicken, creamy parmesan sauce, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes into a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize my Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or substitute grilled shrimp for chicken. Personalize it based on your taste preferences!

How do I keep my sauce from becoming too thick?

If your sauce thickens too much during cooking, simply add reserved pasta water or extra chicken broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta keeps well in the fridge and is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in individual portions for quick meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough to fit any dining occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to romantic date nights. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients! Give this recipe a try and enjoy its comforting flavors.