Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dish that truly impresses. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne, and a rich sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce, it’s perfect for romantic dinners or family gatherings. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout recipe that’s sure to charm anyone who tries it.

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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:
• 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
• With Garlic Bread
• Fresh Green Salad
• Roasted Vegetables
• Wine Pairing
• Cheese Toppings
• Herb Garnish
• 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 use different types of pasta?
• Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta suitable for meal prep?
• How can I customize this recipe?
• What’s the best way to make it dairy-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan creates a rich flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, this dish can be made even on a busy weeknight.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for date nights, family meals, or casual gatherings, it suits various occasions effortlessly.
• Comfort Food Appeal: Creamy pasta dishes are always comforting and satisfying for the whole family.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for fast dinner recipes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cooking pot
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken and sauce together without overcrowding.
• Cooking pot: Necessary for boiling the penne pasta to perfection.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate ingredients smoothly when making the sauce.
• Wooden spoon: Useful for stirring without scratching your cookware.

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

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain 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 6-8 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

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

Step 4: Combine and Serve

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

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delectable Marry Me Chicken Pasta! Pair it with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for an irresistible meal!

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 ways to present this dish that will impress your guests.

With Garlic Bread

• Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side for a perfect balance of flavors. The crispiness complements the creamy pasta beautifully.

Fresh Green Salad

• A light, fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. Opt for mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers.

Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus provide color and nutrition. Drizzle with olive oil and herbs for extra flavor.

Wine Pairing

• Pair this dish with a chilled white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, to enhance the overall dining experience.

Cheese Toppings

• Offer an assortment of cheese toppings, such as grated parmesan or crumbled feta, for guests to sprinkle on their pasta for added richness.

Herb Garnish

• Finish each plate with freshly chopped basil or parsley to bring a burst of freshness and color to the dish.

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How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Perfecting your Marry Me Chicken Pasta involves a few key tricks to elevate its taste and presentation.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and vegetables will enhance the flavor compared to frozen or canned options.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your penne pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture; it should have a slight bite.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before serving; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for maximum flavor.
• Simmer Sauce Longer: Letting your sauce simmer longer allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it richer.
• Consider Spice Levels: If you enjoy heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or more paprika to spice things up.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on garnishing with fresh herbs; they add color and fresh aroma that elevates the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Finding the right side dishes can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some fantastic options that pair well with Marry Me Chicken Pasta:

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and tang that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta.
2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes for a refreshing appetizer.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon juice offers a nutritious side that complements the richness of the pasta.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes make for a comforting addition alongside your chicken pasta.
5. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, basil leaves, and cherry tomatoes on skewers create an easy-to-eat side that’s bursting with flavor.
6. Antipasto Platter: An array of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables gives guests plenty of options while adding variety.
7. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese or breadcrumbs provide a delicious bite-sized treat.
8. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized offer sweetness that balances perfectly against savory dishes like chicken pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Marry Me Chicken Pasta, avoid these common mistakes to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time.

• Overcooking the pasta – This can result in mushy noodles. Always cook the pasta until it’s al dente and follow the package instructions.
• Using low-quality chicken – Cheap cuts can affect the flavor of your dish. Opt for fresh, good-quality boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results.
• Skipping the seasoning – Neglecting salt and pepper can lead to a bland meal. Season both the chicken and sauce generously to enhance flavors.
• Not letting the sauce thicken – A watery sauce won’t coat the pasta well. Allow it to simmer until it reaches a creamy consistency before combining with the chicken and pasta.
• Ignoring fresh herbs – Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor. Don’t skip this garnishing step; it elevates your dish significantly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave – Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or cream to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Marry Me Chicken Pasta that might help you create an even better dish.

What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy Italian-American dish featuring tender chicken, penne pasta, and a rich sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While penne works well, you can substitute with fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti depending on your preference.

Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in both the fridge and freezer, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

How can I customize this recipe?

You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. For spice lovers, consider adding red pepper flakes!

What’s the best way to make it dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its creamy texture and rich flavors are sure to impress your loved ones. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it uniquely yours!