Why Make This Recipe

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with creamy sauce and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes. This dish not only tastes amazing but also impresses anyone you serve it to. Whether you are cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, this recipe can turn any meal into a romantic experience. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for both beginner and seasoned cooks.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

1 lb (450 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin cutlets
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoon olive oil
8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne or rigatoni)
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

Season the chicken cutlets on both sides with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sear the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken to a plate and keep it warm.
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Slice the cooked chicken and add it back to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together to coat in the sauce.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan or chopped fresh basil if desired.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta hot, right out of the skillet. You can add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or fresh basil for an appealing look. It’s a great idea to pair this dish with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to round out the meal.

How to Store Marry Me Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it up gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to keep the sauce creamy.

Tips to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking.
Feel free to use different types of pasta, such as fettuccine or spaghetti, based on your preference.
Adjust the amount of sun-dried tomatoes to match your taste. If you love them, add more!

Variation

If you want to make a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or use a lighter cream option. You could also add vegetables like spinach or broccoli to enhance the dish’s nutrition and add more color.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful dish.

2. Is it possible to make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Just combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
While it is possible to freeze the dish, the sauce may change texture upon thawing. It is best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of cooking.