why make this recipe

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that will impress your family and friends alike. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, this recipe creates a warm, inviting meal perfect for any occasion. It’s an ideal choice for a dinner date or a cozy family night. Plus, it’s easy to make, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.

how to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

Chicken Breasts: 2 large, boneless, skinless, sliced thinly
Salt and Pepper: To taste
Olive Oil: 2 tbsp, for searing
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 1/3 cup, chopped
Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup
Heavy Cream: 1 cup
Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, freshly grated
Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 tsp (optional for spice)
Pasta: 8 oz, such as penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine
Fresh Basil: For garnish

Directions:

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt and your choice of pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken slices with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Cook the Garlic and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir well until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it well with the sauce. Toss in the cooked pasta, ensuring everything is coated in the creamy sauce.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your meal warm!

how to serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta in bowls or on plates. Top with additional grated parmesan and fresh basil for added flavor and presentation. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

how to store Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To store leftovers, place the cooled pasta in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

tips to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for quicker cooking.
Pasta: You can use any pasta shape you prefer; just adjust the cooking time as necessary.
Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency.

variation

For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with mushrooms or another plant-based protein. You can also add spinach or kale for extra nutrition and flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it is fully thawed and cooked through before adding it to the dish.

Q: Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

A: You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version, but keep in mind it may change the flavor slightly.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance. Just cook the pasta fresh when you are ready to serve.