Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Indulge in a plate of rich, creamy deliciousness with this Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe. This dish features tender pieces of chicken and al dente penne pasta, all enveloped in a luscious sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Perfect for a romantic dinner or any special occasion, this dish is sure to impress your loved ones.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 10 ounces penne pasta
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Directions:

1. Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.
2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until the chicken is no longer pink and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Stir in the flour to create a paste.
4. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and grated parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
5. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and dried Italian seasoning to the sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained penne pasta. Stir gently to coat the chicken and pasta evenly in the creamy sauce.
7. Garnish with fresh chopped basil leaves and additional grated parmesan cheese before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: Varies
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips:

• Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese for added flavor.
• Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
• For a spicier kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle a little hot sauce before serving.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to maintain the creamy texture. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.
• Freezing: While possible, freezing may slightly alter the sauce’s texture. If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations

Protein Variations:

• Shrimp: Swap the chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist. Cook shrimp separately and add them at the end.
• Salmon: Use pan-seared or baked salmon for a rich, flaky alternative.
• Vegetarian: Replace chicken with mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas for a meatless option.

Pasta Variations:

• Fettuccine or Linguine: Try a different pasta shape for a new texture.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour substitute for the sauce.

Sauce Variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.
• Extra Creamy: Mix in a bit of cream cheese or mascarpone for a richer sauce.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of butter.

Cheese Variations:

• Mozzarella: Add shredded mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy finish.
• Gouda or Asiago: Swap parmesan for a different cheese to change the flavor profile.

Additional Ingredients:

• Spinach or Kale: Stir in fresh greens for added nutrition.
• Mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms with the garlic for extra umami flavor.
• Roasted Red Peppers: Substitute or add to sun-dried tomatoes for a smoky sweetness.

FAQs

1. Why is it called Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
The dish got its name because its rich, creamy flavors are so irresistible that they might inspire a marriage proposal!

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance, then store them separately. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine everything for the best texture.

3. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
If the sauce thickens too much, add a little extra chicken broth or heavy cream while stirring over low heat.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works well, you can use fettuccine, rigatoni, bowtie, or any pasta you prefer.

5. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may be less creamy. You can also use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

6. Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Yes, but the texture of the sauce may change slightly. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months and reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.

7. How do I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a bit of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.

8. What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Pair it with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

9. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, but the flavor will be milder. Roast cherry or Roma tomatoes for a richer taste before adding them to the sauce.

10. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is an ideal dish to serve during a special dinner or when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something extraordinary. The creamy sauce combined with tender chicken and pasta creates a memorable meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Prepare this dish for your next occasion and experience the deliciousness that makes this recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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