The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also elevates the dining experience to new heights. This creamy garlic Parmesan dish is a symphony of rich flavors, combining the umami of Parmesan with the aromatic touch of garlic, beautifully accentuated by sun-dried tomatoes. Designed for a memorable meal, it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create something utterly delightful. Ideal for romantic dinners, it serves as the perfect companion to both intimate evenings and bustling family gatherings. The harmony of tender chicken and creamy pasta makes every mouthful a pure indulgence.
In our fast-paced lives, creating a mouthwatering dish without spending hours in the kitchen can often be a challenge. This recipe offers not only simplicity but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The ultimate comfort food, it hits all the right notes with its creamy texture paired with hearty chicken, ensuring leftovers are unheard of. The phrase “Marry Me Chicken” isn’t an exaggeration; its deliciousness is sure to capture hearts and create lasting memories around the dinner table. As you embark on preparing this dish, expect an experience where the flavors meld seamlessly, making every bite enchanting.
Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Effortless elegance: Easily turns a simple dinner into something exquisite.
- Crowd-pleaser: Loved by adults and kids alike, making it versatile for any occasion.
- Rich flavors: Each ingredient adds depth, from the chicken to the sun-dried tomatoes and creamy Parmesan sauce.
- Quick preparation: Ready in just 40 minutes, perfect for any time constraints.
- Comfort factor: The creamy texture ensures it feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into cooking your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, setting up your cooking space efficiently is key to a smooth process. Ensure you have ample counter space and a large skillet for cooking the chicken and sauce. Additionally, a separate pot for boiling the pasta and tools like tongs, a spatula, and a sharp knife for cutting the chicken will be essential. Having all ingredients pre-measured and ready will streamline the cooking experience and prevent any last-minute rushing.
To guarantee your chicken achieves a perfect sear, use a skillet that retains and distributes heat evenly. Medium heat is your friend here, allowing you to cook the chicken thoroughly while maintaining its juiciness. A large pot for your pasta is crucial to prevent sticking, always remember to add a generous pinch of salt to the water before adding the penne.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 10 oz penne pasta
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by cooking your penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente, a firm bite that will complement the rich sauce. Once done, drain and set aside, ensuring it doesn’t overcook as this will affect the final texture when combined with your sauce.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and generously season each with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This seasoning adds an initial layer of flavor that will build as the dish comes together.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Bring a large skillet to medium heat and add olive oil. Once shimmering, place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet. Allow each side to sear for 6–7 minutes, ensuring a golden-brown crust while the inside cooks fully. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest; this step helps retain juiciness.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
In the same skillet, introduce minced garlic, sautéing for about a minute until its aroma fills the kitchen. Deglaze the pan by adding heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring gently to combine and lift all those tasty browned bits from the chicken.
Step 5: Incorporate Flavors
With the liquid nicely combined, whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly into the sauce, creating a heavenly texture. Sprinkle in dried thyme, oregano, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to infuse the sauce with layered flavors, and let them simmer together for about four to five minutes until thickened.
Step 6: Merge Chicken and Pasta
Slice the rested chicken into desired pieces and add them back into the sauce. Simmer for another five minutes, letting the flavors blend. Finally, introduce the cooked pasta, tossing gently to ensure each piece is coated in the rich, creamy sauce.
Variations
- Protein: Try substituting chicken with shrimp or turkey for a different protein profile.
- Vegetables: Add spinach or broccoli to increase the nutritional content while adding a pop of color.
- Spices: Kick it up a notch with a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat or swap the oregano and thyme for Italian seasoning.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding chicken to achieve a proper sear.
- Letting the chicken rest before slicing ensures it retains its juices, enhancing tenderness.
- Deglazing the pan with chicken broth lifts caramelized bits, adding depth to the sauce.
- Simmering allows flavors to meld perfectly, resulting in a cohesive, luscious sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
- Pair with a crisp white wine for an elevated dining experience.
Tips
- Pre-measure spices and have all ingredients ready before cooking to streamline the process.
- Consider using freshly grated Parmesan for a more pronounced flavor.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approx. 650 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan?
While Parmesan is traditional for its nutty flavor, you can certainly experiment with other hard cheeses like Romano or Asiago for a variation.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
Yes, a combination of milk and cream cheese or Greek yogurt can mimic the creaminess if you’re looking for a lighter option.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
For best results, reheat gently over the stove with a splash of additional cream or chicken broth to restore the sauce’s original consistency.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time and combine with freshly cooked pasta just before serving to maintain the pasta’s texture.
Conclusion
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe stands as a testament to how classic ingredients can come together to create a dish that truly speaks to the soul. Rich in flavor and effortless in preparation, it’s the epitome of what a comfort food should be. As you savor each bite, you’re not just enjoying a meal, but an experience that invites you to indulge in the pleasure of culinary storytelling. Whether served for a special occasion or as a mid-week treat, this recipe invites you to embrace creativity—try different variations, experiment with spices, or simply relish in its classic form. We encourage you to comment, share your variations, or simply let us know how the dish delighted you. Let’s continue to celebrate food that not only nourishes but unites and enchants.
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Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
The symphony of rich flavors, combining the umami of Parmesan with the aromatic touch of garlic, beautifully accentuated by sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 10 oz penne pasta
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Start by cooking your penne pasta according to the package instructions until it's perfectly al dente.
- Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and generously season each with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Bring a large skillet to medium heat and add olive oil. Once shimmering, place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet. Allow each side to sear for 6–7 minutes.
- In the same skillet, introduce minced garlic, sautéing for about a minute. Deglaze the pan by adding heavy cream and chicken broth.
- With the liquid nicely combined, whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, sprinkle in dried thyme, oregano, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and simmer for four to five minutes until thickened.
- Slice the rested chicken, add them back into the sauce and simmer for another five minutes. Introduce the cooked pasta, tossing gently to ensure each piece is coated in the rich, creamy sauce.
Notes
Ensure the skillet is hot before adding chicken to achieve a proper sear. Letting the chicken rest before slicing ensures it retains its juices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 35 g