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“Can you believe a single dish could influence romance?” is what I overheard at a dinner party one evening. As the enticing aroma of my Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta wafted through the air, I felt the excitement build. This recipe, featuring tender chicken in a luscious sun-dried tomato sauce clinging to perfectly cooked penne, is not just a meal; it’s a promise of comfort food at its finest. Quick to prepare and so delicious, it effortlessly transforms busy weeknights into memorable family gatherings or intimate date nights. Whether you’re trying to impress or simply looking for a delightful dinner option, this dish checks all the boxes. Isn’t it time we brought a touch of culinary romance to your table? Let’s get cooking!
Why Will You Crave This Recipe?
Comfort Food at its finest: Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta wraps tender chicken in a delightful sun-dried tomato sauce, making every bite a hug for your taste buds.
Quick to Prepare: Whip up this restaurant-quality dish in just under 30 minutes, ensuring busy weeknights are still special.
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Impressive Flavor: The combination of sautéed garlic, rich cream, and fresh basil creates a depth of flavor that’s sure to impress family and friends.
Versatile Delight: You can easily customize it with your favorite pasta shape or add veggies like spinach for a nutritious twist.
Crowd-Pleasing: This family-friendly recipe satisfies even the pickiest eaters, making it perfect for gatherings or romantic dinners. Why not pair it with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread?
For more delicious chicken ideas, check out Cream Cheese Chicken or Oven Baked Chicken!
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Penne Pasta (10 oz) – Al dente texture is crucial for holding the creamy sauce beautifully.
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken (1.5 lb) – Thighs offer juiciness, while breasts are leaner; thighs are preferred for a tender outcome.
• Olive Oil – This is the go-to cooking fat for sautéing chicken to perfection.
For the Sauce
• Butter (3 tbsp, Kerrygold recommended) – Adds a rich, luxurious flavor to the sauce.
• Minced Garlic (2 tsp) – Fresh garlic is key for aromatic depth and flavor.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes (1 cup, drained) – Choose oil-packed for the best taste; ensure they are well-drained to avoid excess grease.
• Chicken Broth (2 cups) – Replaces water to create a deeply flavored sauce.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup, room temperature) – Provides that silky base for the creamy sauce you’ll crave.
• Flour (3 tbsp) – Helps thicken the sauce by creating a roux when combined with butter.
• Dried Italian Seasoning (2 tsp) – A blend of herbs that enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 cup) – Stir in at low heat to avoid clumping and achieve creamy perfection.
• Paprika (1 tsp) – Adds both color and a mild, warm flavor to the sauce.
• Salt (0.5 tsp) & Pepper (0.25 tsp) – Essential for seasoning and elevating all the flavors.
For Garnishing
• Fresh Basil – Added just before serving for a pop of color and fragrant freshness that brightens the dish.
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that turns simple ingredients into a delightful dish full of love and flavor. Enjoy!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 10 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside, allowing it to steam dry for a moment as you prepare the creature comfort of our Marry Me Chicken Pasta.
Step 2: Prepare Chicken
While the pasta cooks, cut 1.5 pounds of boneless skinless chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken and sauté for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm.
Step 3: Make Sauce
In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 2 teaspoons of minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour until a paste forms, then slowly add 2 cups of chicken broth, followed by 1 cup of room temperature heavy cream, stirring continuously until smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 4: Enrich the Sauce
Once the sauce has thickened, incorporate 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of drained sun-dried tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 2 teaspoons of dried Italian seasoning. Stir well until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy. Allow it to simmer for about 3-5 minutes, ensuring it coats the back of a spoon, which signals it’s ready for the next step in your Marry Me Chicken Pasta creation.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together gently, ensuring each piece of chicken and pasta is well-coated in the luscious sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping a watchful eye on the creamy goodness.
Step 6: Serve
Once everything is nicely combined, transfer your Marry Me Chicken Pasta to serving plates. Garnish generously with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flair. Serve immediately, enjoying the heavenly aroma and inviting flavors that will surely create memorable moments at the table.
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. As the sauce may thicken, add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
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Freezer: Marry Me Chicken Pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to pack it in a freezer-safe container, separating portions if desired.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of cream or broth to help bring back the sauce’s luscious texture.
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Serving: Always garnish with fresh basil after reheating for that delightful touch of freshness!
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own! Let’s explore fun twists and healthy swaps to elevate your Marry Me Chicken Pasta.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter version while maintaining creamy goodness.
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in fresh sautéed spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and a pop of color. They provide welcome texture without overshadowing the chicken!
- Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap penne for whole wheat pasta for more fiber—perfect for a wholesome family meal without compromising taste.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for an extra layer of heat that’ll awaken your taste buds.
- Herb-Infused: Fresh thyme or oregano can take the flavor profile in exciting new directions. Experiment and find your favorite herb combination!
- Rotisserie Shortcut: Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option—just add it in at the stage where you’d combine with the sauce.
- Seafood Variation: Try shrimp instead of chicken for a unique seafood twist on this comforting classic. Just sauté it until pink and tender!
- Try Different Sauces: Explore creamy alternatives like alfredo sauce for a rich creamy experience or a tomato-based sauce for a lighter, tangy twist.
Pair your creation with a side of Healthy Southwest Chicken Wraps for a delightful meal or try the Spicy Popcorn Chicken for a flavor-packed appetizer!
Expert Tips for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
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Perfect Pasta: Always cook your penne pasta al dente to ensure it holds up against the creamy sauce. Overcooked pasta can become mushy.
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Chicken Choice: Opt for boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for juiciness and tenderness in your Marry Me Chicken Pasta.
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Sauce Secrets: Gradually add the heavy cream to the sauce while stirring to maintain its silky texture without clumping. Avoid boiling the sauce after adding cheese.
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Flavor Boost: Don’t skip the fresh basil garnish; it elevates the overall flavor and presentation, making every bite a delight.
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Storage Solutions: If storing leftovers, add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to restore creaminess lost during refrigeration. Enjoy within four days for the best taste!
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Bring comfort to your table with delightful accompaniments that elevate your meal from good to unforgettable.
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Crisp Green Salad: Tossed with light vinaigrette and fresh veggies, this salad adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the creamy richness of the pasta.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce, enhancing each bite with its savory aroma.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender stalks drizzled with olive oil and roasted to perfection provide a vibrant, earthy contrast that complements the dish beautifully.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Whipped with velvety butter, these mashed potatoes are a comforting side, serving as a delightful vehicle for the leftover sauce.
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Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed with garlic, this nutrient-packed side brings a burst of color and earthiness to your plate while keeping the meal healthy.
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Refreshing Lemonade: A glass of chilled lemonade adds a zesty brightness that contrasts nicely with the richness of the Marry Me Chicken Pasta, making each sip a delight.
These pairings give you a banquet of flavors and textures that turn a simple dinner into a feast to remember, creating lasting moments around the table.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can cook the chicken and prepare the creamy sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Store the cooked chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply warm the sauce over medium heat, whisk in a splash of chicken broth to restore its creamy consistency, then toss in the cooked pasta and chicken. This method ensures that every bite remains just as delicious and satisfying without compromising flavor or texture!
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this Marry Me Chicken Pasta, I recommend using boneless skinless chicken thighs. They provide a juiciness and tenderness that enhances the overall dish. If you prefer leaner meat, boneless skinless chicken breasts will also work but may require more attention to prevent drying out.
How should I store leftovers and how long do they last?
You can easily store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. To maintain the creamy texture, I suggest adding a splash of chicken broth when reheating to prevent the sauce from thickening further.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Yes! This creamy pasta dish freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. The Marry Me Chicken Pasta can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat over low heat in a skillet, adding a bit of broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency.
What if the sauce becomes too thick?
Very! If you find your sauce thickening too much, simply add a splash of chicken broth or a little more cream while stirring over low heat. This will help loosen the sauce and keep it silky. Also, reserving some pasta water before draining can be a lifesaver for adjusting sauce texture as well!
Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta gluten-free?
Of course! To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute regular penne pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative, and ensure that your broth and any other packaged ingredients are gluten-free. The overall flavors and fun of the dish will remain intact!
Is this dish safe for pets?
Always consult with your vet about specific dietary needs, but in general, this dish contains ingredients like garlic and heavy cream, which may not be suitable for pets. It’s best to enjoy Marry Me Chicken Pasta as a human treat!
Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Creamy Comfort You'll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 10 ounces of penne pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, cut 1.5 pounds of boneless skinless chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sauté for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add 2 teaspoons of minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour until a paste forms, then slowly add 2 cups of chicken broth, followed by 1 cup of room temperature heavy cream, stirring continuously until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Once the sauce has thickened, incorporate 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of drained sun-dried tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 2 teaspoons of dried Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy, simmer for about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta into the skillet. Toss gently to ensure everything is well-coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat.
- Transfer your Marry Me Chicken Pasta to serving plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
