Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you're on the hunt for a mouthwatering dish that promises to impress, look no further than our Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This recipe is perfect for a romantic dinner or a delightful family meal. Read on for a detailed guide to creating this delectable dish that’s sure to win hearts and appetites alike!

What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich and creamy dish that combines succulent chicken breasts with a velvety sauce made from heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This dish earned its name from its irresistible flavors that are said to be so good, they'll make anyone want to propose marriage!

Ingredients List for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Chicken Breasts: 2 large, boneless, skinless
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: ½ cup, chopped
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated
• Fresh Basil: ¼ cup, chopped
• Salt: to taste
• Black Pepper: to taste
• Pasta: 8 ounces, fettuccine or your preferred type
• Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

• Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or a medley of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.
• Lighter Version: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.
• Different Cheese: Try using Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to increase or decrease the spiciness.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet.
4. Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and let the sauce thicken slightly.
5. Incorporate Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Combine Everything: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some sauce over it. Let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
7. Cook the Pasta: While the chicken and sauce are simmering, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
8. Mix Together: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Add fresh basil and red pepper flakes if using, and mix well.
9. Serve Immediately: Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil before serving.

How to Cook Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preparing and Cooking the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with a generous amount of salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook them until they are golden brown on each side. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Creating the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until it becomes fragrant but not burnt. Pour in the chicken broth, allowing it to simmer and using a spatula to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. This adds a depth of flavor to your sauce.

Step 3: Adding Cream and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Stir in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the mix. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, which should take a few minutes.

Step 4: Melting the Cheese

Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combining Chicken and Sauce

Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce until it is fully cooked through and the sauce reaches your desired thickness.

Step 6: Cooking the Pasta

While the chicken and sauce are simmering, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and set it aside.

Step 7: Bringing it All Together

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it to ensure that every strand is coated in the rich, creamy sauce. Stir in fresh basil and red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.

Step 8: Serving Your Dish

Serve the Marry Me Chicken Pasta immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for an added touch of flavor and presentation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure that the chicken is cooked just until golden brown. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly, so keep an eye on it and stir constantly until fragrant.
• Curdling the Cream: Add the cream slowly and ensure the heat is on a gentle simmer to prevent curdling.
• Skipping the Cheese: The Parmesan cheese not only adds flavor but also helps thicken the sauce. Don’t skip it!

Serving and Presentation Tips

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Add a Lemon Wedge: A wedge of lemon on the side can be squeezed over the dish for a fresh, tangy twist.
• Pair with Wine: A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with this creamy dish.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Serve the Marry Me Chicken Pasta in large, shallow bowls to showcase the delicious, creamy sauce. Make sure to include pieces of chicken on top for an appealing presentation. You can also add a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad to complete the meal.

Presentation Ideas for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Colorful Garnishes: Use finely chopped parsley, basil, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to add vibrant color.
• Artful Plating: Twirl the pasta into neat nests and place the chicken slices on top.
• Cheese Crust: For an added layer of flavor, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top and place the dish under the broiler for a few minutes to create a cheesy crust.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil, garlic, and quality Parmesan cheese make a significant difference in flavor.
• Pasta Water: Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. If the sauce is too thick, you can use this starchy water to thin it out slightly.
• Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and chicken together, then add freshly cooked pasta.

Q: Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

A: While you can freeze the chicken and sauce, it’s best to cook fresh pasta when ready to serve as pasta can become mushy when frozen and reheated.

Q: What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

A: This dish pairs well with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Q: How can I make this dish healthier?

A: Use whole wheat pasta, substitute heavy cream with a lighter cream or milk, and add more vegetables to the sauce.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken. Simply add it to the sauce and let it heat through before combining with the pasta.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a surefire way to impress your loved ones with its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for various substitutions and variations. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a regular weeknight dinner, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Give it a try, and get ready to receive a flurry of compliments—and maybe even a marriage proposal!

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