Have you ever tasted a dish so delicious it could inspire a marriage proposal? That’s exactly what the marry me chicken pasta recipe promises! This legendary dish has earned its romantic name because it’s so irresistibly good that serving it might just lead to a lifetime commitment. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or simply treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this creamy, flavorful pasta dish delivers unforgettable results.
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What Makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta So Special?
The marry me chicken pasta recipe combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce featuring sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. What sets this dish apart is its perfect balance of flavors – tangy, savory, and slightly sweet all at once. The recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare, making it accessible even for weeknight Lunch despite its impressive presentation.
Despite its gourmet taste, this recipe is surprisingly simple to make. With a difficulty level of medium, it’s approachable for home cooks with basic skills. The most challenging part might be timing everything perfectly, but I’ll guide you through each step to ensure success.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect marry me chicken pasta recipe
To create this irresistible dish, you’ll need these key ingredients:
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide the protein foundation. They cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully.
- Pasta: Medium shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle work best as they hold the sauce nicely.
- Heavy cream: This creates the luxurious base for the sauce. For a lighter version, half-and-half can work, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: These add intense, sweet-tart flavor and beautiful color. Oil-packed varieties work best.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides aromatic depth.
- Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated for the best flavor and melting properties.
- Italian herbs: A blend typically including basil, oregano, and thyme adds wonderful aromatic notes.
- Chicken broth: This adds savory depth to the sauce.
- Spinach (optional): For adding color and nutrition.
Ingredient Alternatives
- Protein alternatives: Boneless chicken thighs offer more flavor but take longer to cook. For a vegetarian version, use hearty mushrooms like portobello or king oyster.
- Dairy alternatives: Coconut cream can replace heavy cream for a dairy-free version, though it will add a subtle coconut flavor.
- Tomato alternatives: Roasted red peppers can substitute for sun-dried tomatoes if needed.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Preparing the Chicken
- Season 1.5 pounds of chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Remove chicken from the pan and set aside to rest.
Making the Sauce
- In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of butter and 3 cloves of minced garlic.
- Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add 1/2 cup chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add 1 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with 1 teaspoon Italian herbs, salt, and pepper to taste.
- If using spinach, add 2 cups now and stir until wilted.
Cooking the Pasta
- While preparing the chicken and sauce, cook 12 ounces of pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Drain the pasta but don’t rinse it – the starch helps the sauce adhere better.
Assembling Your Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Slice the rested chicken into strips.
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Gently fold in the sliced chicken.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Presentation Tips
For a truly proposal-worthy presentation:
- Serve in warmed bowls or plates to keep the dish hot longer.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color.
- Add a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for extra flavor and visual appeal.
- Pair with a simple side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips for marry me chicken pasta recipe
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored properly:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a covered pan on the stove with a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the pasta mushy and cause the sauce to separate.
- Freezing: While possible, cream-based sauces don’t freeze well. If you must freeze, do so before adding the pasta and cream, then add fresh elements when reheating.
Creative Variations on the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, try these delicious variations:
- Spicy Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.
- Seafood Twist: Substitute shrimp or scallops for the chicken.
- Veggie Loaded: Add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.
- Lemon Brightness: Add lemon zest and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce for a bright, citrusy note.
- Pesto Infusion: Stir in 2 tablespoons of basil pesto for an herby twist.
Why You Need to Try This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
This marry me chicken pasta recipe brings restaurant-quality dining to your kitchen with minimal effort. Its creamy, flavorful profile makes it perfect for date nights, special occasions, or whenever you want to elevate your lunch game. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and that irresistible sun-dried tomato cream sauce creates a meal that’s truly memorable.
Whether you’re cooking to impress someone special or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal, this recipe delivers on its promise of being proposal-worthy. So gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite pasta dish!
Frequently Asked Questions About marry me chicken pasta recipe
Can I make marry me chicken pasta ahead of time? While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the components separately up to a day ahead. Cook the pasta and chicken, and make the sauce, then store separately. Combine and reheat gently just before serving.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier? Yes! Use whole wheat pasta for more fiber, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, and add extra vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers.
What can I serve with marry me chicken pasta? A simple green salad and garlic bread make perfect accompaniments. For wine pairing, try a medium-bodied Chardonnay or light Pinot Noir.
Can I use rotisserie chicken to save time? Absolutely! Simply shred or dice the rotisserie chicken and add it to the sauce at the end just to warm through.
Why is my sauce separating? This usually happens if the heat is too high. Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer and avoid boiling. If it does separate, try whisking in a little more cream off the heat.
How can I make this dairy-free? Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. The flavor profile will be different but still delicious.
Add Moroccan Flair to Your Table:
While you’re serving up this irresistible Marry Me Chicken Pasta, why not elevate your dining experience with some authentic Moroccan decor? Visit our Artisanat Marrakech store on Chairish to discover handcrafted treasures like brass lanterns, ceramic dishware, and intricate Berber textiles. Perfect for adding a touch of exotic charm to your table setting.
marry me chicken pasta recipe
Ingredients
- Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 pound pasta penne or fettuccine works well
- Fresh basil chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon butter optional for extra creaminess
Notes
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Prepare the Chicken:
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
-
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Keep warm.
-
Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture back to a simmer.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
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Cook the Pasta:
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
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Combine Everything:
- Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips or cubes, depending on your preference.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
- Add the sliced chicken to the pasta and toss everything together until well combined.
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Finish and Serve:
- If you want extra creaminess, stir in a tablespoon of butter.
- Garnish with fresh basil and more Parmesan cheese before serving.