If you're looking for a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that will impress anyone at the dinner table, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect recipe. This dish combines juicy, seasoned chicken with a rich, sun-dried tomato and parmesan cream sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta.
The name "Marry Me Chicken" comes from the idea that this dish is so delicious, it could inspire a marriage proposal. While that may be a bit of an exaggeration, there's no denying that this dish is a winner for a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal.
This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight meal but fancy enough to serve on a special occasion. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to make this unforgettable dish!
Ingredients Needed
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work best)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Optional Add-Ons for Extra Flavor:
- ¼ cup white wine (for added depth in the sauce)
- ½ cup mushrooms (for an earthy taste)
- ½ cup spinach (for a fresh touch)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
- Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thin cutlets.
- Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Making the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for a minute.
- Stir in heavy cream, parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and mix well.
- Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Step 4: Combining Everything
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat.
- If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
- Place the sliced chicken on top of the pasta.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra parmesan cheese.
Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Use freshly grated parmesan instead of pre-shredded for a creamier sauce.
- Don’t overcook the chicken—it should be juicy and tender.
- Add a splash of white wine for a restaurant-quality taste.
- If the sauce thickens too much, loosen it with extra pasta water.
Serving Suggestions
What Pairs Well with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
- A crisp Caesar salad
- Garlic bread or a warm baguette
- Roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli
Wine Pairings
- White Wine: A Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce.
- Red Wine: A light Pinot Noir pairs well with the sun-dried tomatoes.
Variations of Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Low-Carb Version: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: It can become dry and tough. Cook just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Sauce Too Thick or Thin: Adjust with pasta water or extra cream as needed.
- Wrong Pasta Choice: Stick to pasta shapes that hold the sauce well, like penne or fettuccine.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm on low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Healthier Alternatives
- Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or half-and-half.
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
- Reduce the cheese for a lighter sauce.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dish that lives up to its name—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Whether you're making it for a romantic dinner or a family meal, it’s sure to impress. The combination of juicy chicken, parmesan cream sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes makes it irresistible. Try this recipe today, and watch everyone fall in love with it!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time, but cook the pasta fresh for the best texture.
3. Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
It's not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.
4. What pasta works best for this dish?
Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti hold the sauce well.
5. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute chicken with mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
