Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and downright irresistible, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the answer. This recipe combines tender chicken, a rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for a meal that will leave your loved ones asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a romantic dinner or a comforting family meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- Water for boiling
- 1 tbsp salt
For Garnish:
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, oregano, basil, and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir well.
- Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet with the sauce.
- Add the drained pasta and toss everything together. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water for a silkier texture.
- Simmer for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve hot and watch your guests fall in love with every bite!
Pro Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, richer sauce.
- Don’t overcook the chicken—it should remain juicy and tender.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for an extra touch of flavor and nutrition.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 620 |
| Protein | 40g |
| Carbs | 50g |
| Fats | 30g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What pasta works best for this recipe?
Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni hold the sauce well, making them ideal choices.
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and add even more flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but for best results, store the sauce separately and toss it with fresh pasta before serving.
Is there a dairy-free option?
Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth.
Final Thoughts
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just craving a rich, creamy meal, this dish won’t disappoint. Try it tonight and see why it’s a guaranteed favorite!
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