Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This rich and creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, al dente penne, and a flavorful sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce. Perfect for romantic dinners, family gatherings, or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress anyone who tries it. With its perfect balance of creaminess and spice, it’s not just a meal—it’s an experience.

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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 Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
• Step 4: Combine and Serve
• How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Pair with Garlic Bread
• Add a Fresh Salad
• Include Steamed Vegetables
• Top with Extra Cheese
• Serve with Wine
• How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Reheating Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
• Can I customize Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
• How do I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta gluten-free?
• How spicy is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan creates a sauce that bursts with flavor in every bite.
• Versatile: Serve it as a main course for dinner or as a delightful dish at gatherings; it fits any occasion perfectly.
• Creamy Comfort Food: This pasta delivers the comfort of creamy textures paired with savory chicken that everyone loves.
• Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh basil and extra parmesan, it looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for cooking the chicken and creating the delicious sauce all in one pan.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A must-have for cooking the penne to the perfect al dente texture.
• Whisk: Helps to mix ingredients smoothly when preparing the sauce, ensuring no lumps remain.

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

For Garnish

• Fresh basil, for garnish

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How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes until fully cooked through. Once done, transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet used for chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in flour to form a paste, cooking for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, and grated parmesan until smooth.
Add sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Adjust with additional salt and pepper if needed. Let simmer until thickened.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return cooked chicken to the skillet along with drained pasta. Stir well to coat everything in the creamy sauce evenly.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional parmesan cheese before serving.

Enjoy this irresistible Marry Me Chicken Pasta complemented by garlic bread or a fresh green salad!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Serving Marry Me Chicken Pasta is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creamy texture. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery flavor of garlic bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly, adding a crunchy texture.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can refresh the palate and balance the richness of the pasta.

Include Steamed Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: These vegetables add color and nutrition, making your meal well-rounded and healthy.

Top with Extra Cheese

• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkling extra parmesan on top enhances the cheesy flavor and adds a delightful finish to each bite.

Serve with Wine

• Pair with White Wine: A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, can elevate the dining experience and complement the flavors of the dish.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To ensure your Marry Me Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold seasoning: Season your chicken well before cooking to maximize flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook penne until al dente to maintain a good texture in the dish.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil and quality parmesan cheese will enhance flavor significantly.
• Adjust creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream based on your preference for richness.
• Simmer for depth: Letting the sauce simmer allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Garnish generously: Don’t skimp on the fresh basil; it not only looks great but adds freshness.

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Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Complementing your Marry Me Chicken Pasta with side dishes can elevate your dinner experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing pairs nicely with this pasta.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and seasonings, roasted Brussels sprouts add a delicious crunch.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside this rich pasta dish.
4. Caprese Skewers: These skewers made of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a refreshing bite that balances out the richness.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Light zucchini noodles can be served as a low-carb alternative for those looking for lighter fare.
6. Herbed Quinoa: This nutty grain adds protein and fiber while complementing the flavors of your main dish wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Marry Me Chicken Pasta, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking penne pasta for too long can lead to mushy noodles. Always follow package instructions and taste-test for al dente.
• Not Seasoning the Chicken: Skipping seasoning can make the chicken bland. Ensure you season well with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Ignoring the Sauce Consistency: If you rush the sauce, it may not thicken properly. Allow it to simmer until it reaches your desired thickness.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Subpar ingredients can compromise flavor. Use fresh sun-dried tomatoes and quality parmesan cheese for the best results.
• Forgetting to Garnish: Neglecting to garnish can make the dish less appealing. Always finish with fresh basil and extra parmesan for a beautiful presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Allow to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; will last up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals on medium power, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat with a splash of cream or broth, stirring frequently.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish made with tender chicken, penne pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich parmesan sauce. It’s named for its romantic appeal!

Can I customize Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or substitute different proteins like shrimp or tofu.

How do I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, swap regular penne with gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How spicy is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

The dish has mild spice due to paprika. You can adjust spice levels by adding red pepper flakes or adjusting the amount of paprika used.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook everything separately and combine it just before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not only rich in flavor but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether you’re impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this dish will surely satisfy. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients!

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