Description
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress! Juicy chicken is simmered in a rich Parmesan and sun-dried tomato cream sauce, then tossed with perfectly cooked pasta for a meal so delicious, it might just inspire a proposal. Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or any special occasion!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz dried pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
- Salt (for boiling water)
For the Chicken & Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon each: Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions.
- Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken & Aromatics:
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and butter, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chicken pieces and season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Reduce heat to medium. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Pour in ½ cup reserved pasta water to help loosen and emulsify the sauce.
- Simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
4. Combine & Serve:
- Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, stirring until fully coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot!
Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of white wine before adding the cream.
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan.
- Want it spicier? Increase red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños.
- For juicier chicken, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- Alternative proteins: Try shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a different twist.
