Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken with sun-dried tomatoes and a rich Parmesan sauce. Perfect for family dinners or date nights, this dish promises to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen. The combination of flavors creates a cozy meal that’s both easy to prepare and full of delightful taste, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in just 40 minutes.
- Flavorful Combination: The rich creamy sauce paired with sun-dried tomatoes and garlic elevates the taste, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course for dinner, lunch, or even impress friends at your next gathering. It’s perfect for any setting.
- Comforting Meal: This pasta dish brings warmth and satisfaction, making it ideal for cozy nights or when you’re craving something hearty.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you’ll need some essential tools to help streamline the cooking process.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A good skillet allows even cooking of the chicken and sauce, ensuring everything blends perfectly.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Having a dedicated pot makes it easy to cook your pasta while preparing other ingredients simultaneously.
- Mixing bowl: Useful for tossing the chicken with cornstarch and seasoning, keeping your prep organized.
Ingredients
This creamy marry me chicken pasta is a simple, cozy dish with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich, silky Parmesan sauce. Perfect with your favorite pasta, it’s easy to make and full of flavor!
- 4 boneless (skinless chicken breasts, diced)
- 10 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
- 2 tbsp seasoned oil from sun-dried tomatoes
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (to coat the chicken)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (thinly diced)
- 1¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- ½ oz Torn Fresh basil (for garnish)
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil 10 oz pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water for later use. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Coat the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, toss together:
1. Diced chicken breasts
2. Cornstarch
3. Oregano
4. A pinch of salt
5. Pepper
6. Red pepper flakes
Ensure that each piece of chicken is evenly coated.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat the seasoned oil from sun-dried tomatoes in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken and cook until golden brown and crispy for about 5–6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic cloves and diced sun-dried tomatoes; sauté for about 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
Stir in chicken broth followed by heavy cream into the skillet. Let simmer for about 3–5 minutes while stirring occasionally. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and thickened.
Step 6: Add Chicken to Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with sauce. Let it simmer together for an additional 5 minutes so that the flavors meld well.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add cooked pasta to the skillet with sauce; toss gently to coat all pieces evenly. Use reserved pasta water if needed to adjust sauce consistency.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Garnish your dish with fresh basil or parsley along with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm for best enjoyment!
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Serving Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful way to impress your family or guests. This creamy dish pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese tossed in Caesar dressing.
- Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a tangy contrast.
- Arugula Salad: Peppery arugula with cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette adds brightness.
Complementary Bread Options
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread with garlic butter for a crunchy texture that complements the creamy pasta.
- Focaccia: Soft, herb-infused bread that’s perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
- Dinner Rolls: Fluffy rolls are an excellent choice for sopping up the delicious sauce.
Perfect Wine Pairing
- Chardonnay: A buttery Chardonnay enhances the creaminess of the dish.
- Sangiovese: This medium-bodied red wine offers a fruity profile that balances the flavors.
How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta
To make your Marry Me Chicken Pasta even more delicious, consider these simple tips.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh chicken breasts and high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer milder dishes, reduce the red pepper flakes or omit them entirely.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: This gives the pasta a firmer texture that holds up well in the creamy sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Adding reserved pasta water can help achieve the desired sauce consistency without thinning it out too much.
Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Adding side dishes can elevate your meal experience with Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Here are some great options to consider:
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provide a nutritious balance.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds freshness to your plate.
- Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil on skewers offer a burst of flavor in each bite.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your pasta.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled and brushed with butter makes for a delightful summer side.
- Spinach Artichoke Dip: A warm dip served with chips or bread can be an enticing appetizer before your main course.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Marry Me Chicken Pasta can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can take away from its charm. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long makes it mushy. Always aim for al dente and check package instructions.
- Skipping Seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Use salt, pepper, and herbs generously for a flavorful dish.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor quality chicken or cheese can ruin the dish. Invest in fresh ingredients like Parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes for the best taste.
- Neglecting to Reserve Pasta Water: Discarding pasta water means losing a valuable resource for adjusting sauce consistency. Set aside some before draining your pasta.
- Not Letting the Chicken Rest: Cutting into chicken right away can cause juices to escape, making it dry. Allow it to rest briefly after cooking for juiciness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor and freshness.
Freezing Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Freeze in a suitable container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about Marry Me Chicken Pasta that might help you perfect your dish.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work well, feel free to use any pasta you prefer.
What other proteins can I use instead of chicken?
You can substitute chicken with shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option while still enjoying this delicious dish.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Consider using whole-grain pasta and reducing the amount of heavy cream or cheese to lighten it up without sacrificing flavor.
What should I serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
This meal pairs beautifully with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete dining experience.
Final Thoughts
This creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not just easy to prepare; it’s also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. We encourage you to try this heartwarming recipe that will surely impress your loved ones!
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful and creamy dish that combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious Parmesan sauce over your favorite pasta. Perfect for family dinners or romantic date nights, this comforting meal comes together in just 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. The rich flavors and easy preparation will impress everyone at your table, turning this recipe into a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (diced)
- 10 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
- 2 tbsp seasoned oil from sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (thinly diced)
- 1¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, toss diced chicken with cornstarch, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the seasoned oil and cook the coated chicken until golden brown (about 5–6 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté minced garlic and diced sun-dried tomatoes in the same skillet for 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream; simmer for 3–5 minutes. Add Parmesan until melted.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to combine. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1¼ cups
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
