why make this recipe

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a special family meal. The name suggests that this dish is so delicious it might just win someone over! Plus, it’s quick to make and full of flavor, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.

how to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

Chicken Breasts: 2 large, boneless, skinless, sliced thinly
Salt and Pepper: To taste
Olive Oil: 2 tbsp, for searing
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 1/3 cup, chopped
Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup
Heavy Cream: 1 cup
Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, freshly grated
Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 tsp (optional for spice)
Pasta: 8 oz, such as penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine
Fresh Basil: For garnish

Directions:

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt and the pasta. Cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Let it cook for a few minutes to thicken slightly.
Combine: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Toss in the drained pasta and mix everything well until the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce.
Garnish and Serve: Serve the dish warm, garnished with fresh basil on top.

how to serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is best served hot. You can pair it with a simple side salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal. For an extra touch, sprinkle more Parmesan cheese or freshly cracked pepper on top before serving.

how to store Marry Me Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

tips to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, particularly fresh basil and good quality Parmesan cheese.
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less crushed red pepper flakes according to your preference.
For a healthier version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream.

variation

You can easily customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. If you prefer it without pasta, you can serve the creamy chicken mixture over rice or quinoa.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw them fully before cooking for even results.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead. Just cook the pasta fresh when you are ready to serve to avoid overcooking.

3. Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp or even plant-based proteins like tofu for a vegetarian option.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta