Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. With its creamy Parmesan sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, this dish promises to impress anyone at your table. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a romantic dinner, this recipe combines simplicity and rich flavor to create a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the chicken and pasta.
• Versatile: You can use any pasta shape you prefer—penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine works beautifully!
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it garnished with fresh basil for a stunning dish that looks as good as it tastes.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy texture and rich flavors make it appealing to both adults and kids alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the right tools before you start. Having everything on hand will help you prepare this delicious Marry Me Chicken Pasta without any hiccups.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing ingredients evenly while allowing enough space for all components.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A large pot ensures even cooking of your pasta without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for seasoning and coating your chicken efficiently.

Ingredients

This creamy marry me chicken pasta is a simple, cozy dish with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich, silky Parmesan sauce. Perfect with your favorite pasta, it’s easy to make and full of flavor!

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless (skinless chicken breasts, diced)

For the Pasta

• 10 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp seasoned oil from sun-dried tomatoes
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (to coat the chicken)
• 1 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (thinly diced)
• 1¼ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

• ½ oz Torn Fresh basil (for garnish)

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil 10 oz of your chosen pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining and setting aside.

Step 2: Season and Coat the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, toss together 4 diced chicken breasts with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of oregano, a pinch of salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil from the sun-dried tomatoes in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and crispy—about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add in 4 minced garlic cloves along with 1 cup of thinly diced sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

Stir in ¾ cup of chicken broth along with 1¼ cups of heavy cream. Allow to simmer for about 3-5 minutes while stirring occasionally. Gradually add in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and thickened.

Step 6: Add Chicken to Sauce

Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Simmer everything together for an additional 5 minutes so that the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss in your cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Use reserved pasta water as needed to adjust consistency until you achieve your desired thickness.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley along with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm to enjoy this delightful Marry Me Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with a balsamic vinaigrette.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and shaved Parmesan for added crunch.

Complement with Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted French bread topped with garlic butter and herbs makes a great side to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks: Breadsticks brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with mozzarella cheese for an extra cheesy treat.

Add a Touch of Spice

• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Serve at the table for those who enjoy an extra kick in their pasta dishes.
• Hot Sauce Variety: Offer a selection of hot sauces to cater to different spice levels.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Basil Leaves: Top each serving with torn fresh basil for a burst of flavor and color.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve alongside lemon wedges for guests who like a zesty finish.

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How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To make Marry Me Chicken Pasta truly exceptional, consider these tips that enhance the overall dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken and high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when mixed with the creamy sauce.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Adding side dishes can elevate your dining experience when enjoying Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Consider these options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic provide a comforting complement to the pasta.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli drizzled with olive oil enhances both taste and health benefits.
4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil on skewers offer a refreshing appetizer.
5. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cured meats, and cheeses makes for an inviting starter.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with butter gives a sweet contrast to savory pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s outcome. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Not seasoning properly: Seasoning enhances flavor. Be sure to season both the chicken and the sauce adequately for a delicious result.
• Overcooking the pasta: Overcooked pasta becomes mushy. Cook it until al dente as instructed, so it holds its shape and texture in the dish.
• Ignoring the cornstarch coating: Skipping this step can lead to less crisp chicken. The cornstarch coating helps create a nice texture when cooking.
• Using pre-grated cheese: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as well as fresh cheese. Always use freshly grated Parmesan for a creamy, smooth sauce.
• Rushing the simmering time: Simmering allows flavors to meld. Don’t rush this step; let the sauce develop for at least 5 minutes before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Use within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best enjoyed within 2-3 months of freezing.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or cream in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Marry Me Chicken Pasta that might help you while cooking this delightful dish.

What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and rich Parmesan sauce. It’s called Marry Me because it’s said to be so good that it could inspire a marriage proposal!

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work well, feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta shape for this recipe.

How can I customize Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing red pepper flakes based on your preference.

Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and makes great leftovers, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not just a comforting meal; it’s also versatile enough to accommodate various tastes and preferences. Whether you’re cooking for friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish will surely impress. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!