Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that promises to impress anyone at the dinner table. With the Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe, you will experience tender chicken, a luscious sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta. This dish is perfect for weeknight meals or romantic dinners due to its ease and flavor. Its rich and creamy texture, combined with sun-dried tomatoes, makes it a standout option for any occasion.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken & Pasta
• For the Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Sauce
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Finish the Dish
• How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Pair with a Simple Salad
• Add Fresh Bread
• Include a Wine Pairing
• Top with Fresh Herbs
• How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Reheating Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
• Can I use other types of pasta?
• How do I customize this recipe?
• Can I make this ahead of time?
• Is this recipe suitable for leftovers?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy parmesan sauce and tangy sun-dried tomatoes create an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for casual family dinners or elegant date nights alike.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its comforting flavors are sure to satisfy even picky eaters.
• Easily Customizable: Adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking this creamy chicken pasta a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A must-have for sautéing the chicken and making the sauce all in one pan.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures your penne cooks evenly and perfectly al dente.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements help achieve the best flavor balance.

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

For Garnish

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

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How to Make Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain it 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 6-8 minutes until fully cooked with no pink remaining. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, sautéing 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. Next, stir in sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Taste your sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

Return cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Stir gently to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh basil and additional parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Serving Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making the dining experience enjoyable. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with a Simple Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss fresh greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: The classic Caesar adds crunch and creaminess that complements the pasta beautifully.

Add Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread for a delicious way to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: A fresh baguette provides a perfect vehicle for all that tasty sauce.

Include a Wine Pairing

• Chardonnay: This white wine enhances the creamy texture and balances the dish’s richness.
• Pinot Noir: For red wine lovers, Pinot Noir offers a light body that pairs well without overpowering the flavors.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil: Fresh basil brightens up the dish, adding an aromatic touch.
• Parmesan Shavings: Extra parmesan on top enriches the cheesy flavor profile.

How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

To ensure your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality parmesan cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking pasta just until tender keeps it firm and helps it hold onto the sauce better.
• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allowing the sauce to simmer thickens it and deepens the flavors—patience is key!
• Adjust Seasoning Carefully: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper to suit your preference without overpowering other flavors.
• Add Vegetables for Color: Consider adding spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and visual appeal.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container, ensuring they stay creamy when reheated.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Completing your meal with sides can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some excellent side dishes to serve alongside your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Tender broccoli roasted with garlic adds nutrition and flavor that complements the pasta well.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a fresh crunch that balances the creaminess of the dish.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil on skewers create a vibrant appetizer or side.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic reduction offers bright acidity against rich pasta.
5. Grilled Zucchini: Sliced zucchini grilled until slightly charred can add a smoky element to your meal.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the savory chicken pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta, a few common mistakes can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Ensure you cook just until no longer pink for juicy pieces.
• Skipping the Pasta Water: Not reserving pasta water can lead to a thick sauce. This starchy water helps adjust the sauce consistency.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap ingredients can compromise flavor. Opt for fresh chicken and high-quality parmesan cheese for the best taste.
• Not Tasting the Sauce: Failing to season properly can leave your dish bland. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Cooking Too Quickly: Rushing through cooking may not allow flavors to meld. Take your time, especially with sautéing garlic and simmering the sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream as needed to keep it creamy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delicious dish featuring chicken in a rich parmesan sauce combined with sun-dried tomatoes and penne pasta. It’s known for its comforting flavors.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While penne is ideal, you can substitute with fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti if preferred.

How do I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition. Adjust the spices based on your preference as well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then combine with pasta when ready to serve.

Is this recipe suitable for leftovers?

Yes! Leftovers store well in the fridge or freezer and can be reheated easily without losing flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that makes it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Its creamy texture and savory ingredients are sure to please everyone at your table. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spices to fit your taste!

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