Hey y’all! If you’re looking to impress your loved ones with a dish that’s both simple and bursting with flavor, you’ve come to the right place. Our Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is perfect for romantic dinners or hearty family gatherings. Creamy, savory, and utterly satisfying, this dish might just become your new favorite. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- It’s incredibly creamy and flavorful, combining tender chicken with a rich sauce.
- Perfect for special occasions or an easy weeknight dinner.
- Ready in just 40 minutes, making it a quick yet impressive meal.
- Uses readily available ingredients that you may already have in your pantry.
- Customizable with various substitutions to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 pound pasta of your choice
- Fresh basil for garnish
Directions
Prepare the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
Combine Ingredients
Add Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning to the sauce. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet, simmering until heated through.
Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and add the pasta to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss everything together to coat the pasta.
Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped basil and more Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot!
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half. Learn more about cream substitutes here.
- Sun-dried tomatoes can be replaced with cherry tomatoes for a fresher flavor.
- Feel free to add spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
Variations
- Spicy Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Cheesy Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Mix in mozzarella for an extra cheesy version.
- Vegetarian Marry Me Pasta: Substitute chicken with tofu or more veggies.
Required Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pasta pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
Storage Instructions
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Suggested Pairings
Pair this dish with a crisp Caesar salad and a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Pro Tips
- Season your chicken well before cooking for maximum flavor. Check out this guide on cooking chicken breast perfectly.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
- Let the sauce simmer to thicken it nicely before adding pasta.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? The sauce can be frozen, but it’s best to cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes? Roasted red peppers or fresh tomatoes can be a good alternative.