Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe: A Dish Worth Proposing Over

Name: Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thinly; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 8 oz pasta (such as penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine); Fresh basil, for garnish

Imagine this – the delightful aroma of sautéed garlic envelops your kitchen, harmonizing with the rich, creamy scent of a simmering sauce and sun-dried tomatoes. As you stir, you can almost taste the warmth and love infused in this dish. Pressed against the backdrop of a busy week, there’s something so alluring about preparing the Marry Me Chicken Pasta. The silky texture of the pasta, the perfectly cooked chicken, and the decadent sauce blend beautifully, creating a meal that feels celebratory yet comforting. Whether you’re cooking for someone special or simply treating yourself to a night in, this recipe showcases that delicious food can indeed inspire love – and perhaps even marriage!

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is ideal for cozy dinners, festive gatherings, or when you want to impress that special someone without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a dish with a story – one where food meets romance and tastes like a warm embrace. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into a culinary experience that’s sure to leave an impression!

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Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutritional Breakdown

Calories: 550
Protein: 34g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 650mg

This nutritional data reflects per serving and can vary based on ingredient brands and proportions. Nutrition information is compiled from trusted sources like the USDA National Nutrient Database and Mayo Clinic.

Why You’ll Love It

You’re going to fall in love with this recipe not just for its incredible taste but for the intimate moments it inspires. The rich, luscious sauce entices your taste buds with every creamy bite, while the sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of tang that dances on your palate. Cooking this dish can become a cherished memory, whether enjoyed on a casual weeknight or made special for a romantic dinner. It’s perfect for cozy nights in where laughter and conversation are the main ingredients!

Cooking Directions

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

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Boil the Pasta: Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
Create the Sauce: Add sun-dried tomatoes and chicken broth to the skillet, scraping any browned bits from the pan. Bring to a simmer.
Incorporate the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Add Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
Mix in Cheese: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.
Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
Garnish and Serve: Plate the dish and top with fresh basil for an aromatic finish.

Best Pairings

Struggling to decide what to serve with this creamy delight? Here are some suggestions:

Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the richness beautifully.
Salad: A light arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette balances the meal perfectly.
Bread: Serve it up with a side of warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

How to Store

Room Temperature: Best enjoyed immediately. If left out, consume within 2 hours.
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: You can freeze the pasta dish for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool it completely before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Expert Tips

Cooking the Chicken: To ensure your chicken stays juicy, avoid overcrowding the pan. Sear in batches if needed.
Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, don’t hesitate to incorporate small amounts of pasta water rather than more cream.
Flavor Boost: Feel free to add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

Fun Flavor Ideas

Vegan Alternative: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu, use coconut cream for creaminess, and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth is packaged gluten-free.
Add a Twist: For a Mediterranean flair, incorporate olives and Feta cheese before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried herbs instead of Italian seasoning?
Yes! Using dried oregano, basil, and thyme will also work well.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the sauce up to 2 days ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.
What if I have leftovers?
Just refrigerate and enjoy it within 3 days, or you can freeze it for later!

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavor and warmth, perfect for any occasion. We invite you to try this recipe, share your culinary creations, and become part of our vibrant community of food lovers. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to add a new love story to your kitchen! Happy cooking!