Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe truly is a culinary gem. It’s surprisingly simple to whip up, yet it tastes like something you’d enjoy at a fancy restaurant. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, coming together in under an hour.

The rich, creamy sauce, brightened by those flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, is simply irresistible. This dish is incredibly versatile, making it a fantastic choice for special date nights or when you want to genuinely impress guests. It consistently delivers deliciousness!

Why I Love This Recipe

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is a real winner in my kitchen. It’s wonderfully simple to prepare. Yet, it tastes like a gourmet meal. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights. Plus, it’s ready in under an hour. The sauce is so rich and creamy. The sun-dried tomatoes add a delightful tang. Honestly, it’s just irresistible. It’s also super versatile. This makes it ideal for date nights. Or, any time you want to truly impress guests.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe Ingredients

The magic of this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe truly comes alive with its beautiful combination of straightforward, quality ingredients. Each element contributes to that unforgettable flavor profile, a creamy, savory, and subtly sweet experience. It’s this blending of simple tastes that makes the dish so special.

Core Ingredients:

• Chicken: Our boneless, skinless chicken pieces create a satisfying, hearty base for this wonderful dish.
• Penne Pasta: This timeless pasta shape is ideal for wonderfully capturing all the rich, creamy sauce.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They bring a concentrated, sweet tang. Their chewy texture adds another layer of delight.
• Heavy Cream & Parmesan Cheese: Together, they create that signature velvety smooth sauce we all adore.
• Garlic & Butter: These are the aromatic heart of the sauce, building a deep, inviting flavor.
• Chicken Broth: This smooths everything out, creating the perfect sauce consistency.
• Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Paprika, Italian Seasoning): These essentials simply elevate all the other amazing flavors.

Substitutions and Tips:

Want a little heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic. If penne isn’t your go-to, don’t worry! Rotini, farfalle, or even fettuccine work wonderfully. For a dairy-free take, try full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream; just know the flavor will shift a bit. Make sure your chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the sauce for the best texture. You’ll find all the exact ingredient amounts in the printable recipe card further down!

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Crafting this dreamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a breeze. You’ll love how the simple steps lead to such an impressive result. Follow along, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time at all.

Cook the Pasta

First things first, let’s get that pasta ready. Boil 10 ounces of penne pasta until it’s perfectly al dente. Drain it well, then set it aside to await its creamy fate. This is the initial step for your stunning Marry Me Chicken Pasta dish.

Prepare and Cook the Chicken

Next, cut your 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken. Aim for bite-sized, 1-inch pieces. Season them well with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet. Use medium-high heat here. Add the chicken. Cook it for 6-8 minutes. Stir often. Make sure it’s no longer pink inside. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate. Set it aside. It’s resting while you create the gorgeous, creamy sauce for your Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Build the Creamy Sauce

In that same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 2 teaspoons of minced garlic. Cook for just 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour. Cook this for 1-2 minutes. This creates a light golden roux. It’s essential for a thicker sauce. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth. Mix until it’s super smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-5 minutes. Stir from time to time. The sauce will start to thicken nicely.

Finish the Sauce and Combine

Now for the magic! Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Toss in 1 cup of drained sun-dried tomatoes. Then, add 1 teaspoon of paprika and 2 teaspoons of dried Italian seasoning. Keep stirring. Wait until the cheese melts. The sauce will become beautifully creamy. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained penne pasta to the chicken and sauce mixture.

Heat Through and Serve

Gently toss everything together. Make sure the pasta and chicken are fully coated in that luscious sauce. Let your Marry Me Chicken Pasta simmer for 2-3 more minutes. This lets all the wonderful flavors meld. It also ensures everything is heated through perfectly. Garnish with fresh basil. This adds a lovely touch of color and fresh flavor. Now, serve this delightful dish!

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How to Store Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Kept properly, your Marry Me Chicken Pasta will retain its tempting texture and taste. Let the dish cool. Then, transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop. Use low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce gets too thick.

Tips for Success

Here are a few pointers to make your Marry Me Chicken Pasta absolutely perfect:

• Don’t overcook the pasta initially. It will cook a bit more in the sauce.
• Cook your roux for at least a minute. This gets rid of any raw flour taste.
• Always taste and adjust seasonings. You might need a touch more salt or pepper.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan. It adds a richer flavor than pre-shredded cheese.
• Sun-dried tomatoes in oil offer a more intense flavor. They truly enhance the dish.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful Marry Me Chicken Pasta, gather these essential kitchen tools. They make the whole process much smoother.

• A good large skillet is key for cooking chicken and making the sauce.
• You’ll need a pot for boiling your pasta perfectly.
• Don’t forget your measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• A whisk is crucial for creating a lump-free, creamy sauce base.
• A sharp knife and cutting board are necessary for prepping ingredients.
• Tongs or a large spoon will help you toss everything together beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

To round out your Marry Me Chicken Pasta dinner, consider these simple yet elegant additions. They enhance the meal beautifully.

• Serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing. This adds a refreshing contrast.
• Crusty bread is a must. It’s perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious sauce.
• A crisp white wine, like a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with the creamy chicken pasta.
• Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little flair and extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare most components of this Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time. Cook the chicken and sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat gently. Toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving for the best texture.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

If you can’t find sun-dried tomatoes, try roasted red peppers. Chop them finely for a similar sweet, tangy flavor. You could also add tomato paste. A tablespoon adds deeper tomato essence. The texture will differ slightly though.

Can I make this a vegetarian Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe?

To make this a vegetarian Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe, simply omit the chicken. Add hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. Sautéed spinach also works well. These make it a satisfying meatless meal. Cook the sauce base as directed.