Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious parmesan cream sauce tossed with pasta. This recipe has gained popularity for its irresistible flavor and the romantic story behind its name — it is said to be so delicious that it could inspire a marriage proposal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is incredibly comforting and satisfying, making it perfect for a special dinner or a cozy night at home. The combination of juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and savory sun-dried tomatoes creates a luxurious dish that feels restaurant-quality yet is simple enough to prepare at home. It is also highly versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil, chopped
• Pasta (such as fettuccine, linguine, or penne)

Directions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Add heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, crushed red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer gently until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
8. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to combine, coating the pasta thoroughly.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a richer flavor.
• Add spinach or baby kale to the sauce for extra greens.
• Use a different pasta shape like rigatoni or farfalle based on preference.
• Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
• Include mushrooms or caramelized onions for additional depth.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, add a splash of cream or chicken broth and warm gently over medium heat on the stove or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

How did Marry Me Chicken get its name?

It is said that the dish is so delicious it could inspire a marriage proposal after just one bite.

Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time and simply cook the pasta fresh before serving.

What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Fettuccine, linguine, penne, or any pasta that holds sauce well are great options.

Can I use jarred sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil work best as they add more flavor to the dish.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce will be less rich.

Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

It is not recommended as the cream sauce may separate when thawed and reheated.

How spicy is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

It has a mild heat from the crushed red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the spice level to your taste.

What side dishes pair well with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

A green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make excellent sides.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely, you can add mushrooms, spinach, peas, or asparagus for a heartier meal.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is an indulgent and flavorful dish that is sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and savory sun-dried tomatoes, this recipe is a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. Whether you are cooking for a romantic dinner or simply craving a delicious homemade meal, this recipe will not disappoint. Enjoy the irresistible flavors that have captured the hearts of so many.

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