Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe – A Creamy, Flavorful Dinner for Two

If you’re looking for a dish that combines rich, creamy textures with bold flavors, look no further than the Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This incredible recipe will have everyone at the dinner table asking for seconds—and maybe even proposing! Perfectly seared chicken, a luscious creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan, and your choice of pasta make this dish an unforgettable experience.

The Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just another pasta dish; it’s a love affair with food. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner, celebrating a special occasion, or just treating yourself to something indulgent, this dish has all the elements that make a meal truly memorable.

What Makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta So Special?

The key to the Marry Me Chicken Pasta’s charm lies in the combination of ingredients and their execution. The creamy sauce is rich yet balanced, with the depth of the Parmesan cheese and the subtle heat from red pepper flakes. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness that elevates the sauce and complements the tenderness of the chicken. Then, of course, there’s the pasta—penne or fettuccine—which soaks up the sauce perfectly, making every bite feel indulgent.

But the real showstopper is the chicken. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are seasoned to perfection and seared until golden and juicy, providing the perfect protein to pair with the creamy sauce and pasta. Together, the components create a flavor profile so good that you might just hear “I do” after one bite!

Ingredient Breakdown: What You’ll Need for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s break down the ingredients that make this recipe come together so effortlessly. Understanding the role each component plays in the flavor profile will make you appreciate this dish even more.

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half lengthwise): Chicken breasts are a lean, versatile protein that provides a neutral base to soak up the seasoning and pair well with the rich sauce.
• 1 tsp salt: Salt is a must for enhancing the flavors in every dish, especially when seasoning the chicken to bring out its natural juiciness.
• ½ tsp black pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle warmth and flavor to balance the richness of the sauce and chicken.
• ½ tsp garlic powder: Garlic powder infuses the chicken with a savory, aromatic note, boosting the overall flavor profile.
• ½ tsp paprika: Paprika adds a mild smokiness and color to the chicken, enhancing both its flavor and appearance.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Olive oil is used for searing the chicken, adding a slight richness and crisp texture on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.

For the Sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Butter provides the base for the sauce, lending a creamy texture and rich flavor.
• 3 garlic cloves (minced): Fresh garlic creates an aromatic foundation for the sauce, adding depth and flavor.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Heavy cream is the star of the sauce, creating a rich, velvety texture that coats the pasta and chicken perfectly.
• ½ cup chicken broth: Chicken broth helps to thin the sauce slightly while contributing savory undertones that complement the richness of the cream.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds a nutty, salty complexity to the sauce, elevating the entire dish with its distinct flavor.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning brings together herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, which are classic flavors that pair beautifully with the creamy sauce and chicken.
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): The red pepper flakes are an optional ingredient that adds a gentle heat to the sauce. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped): Sun-dried tomatoes provide a sweet, tangy contrast to the creaminess of the sauce and add an element of brightness to the dish.
• ¼ cup fresh basil (chopped): Fresh basil contributes a refreshing herbal note that adds complexity and balances the richness of the sauce.

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta: Penne or fettuccine are both great choices for this dish. The tubular shape of penne holds the sauce inside, while fettuccine has a broad, flat surface that allows the sauce to coat each strand.
• Salt (for boiling water): Salted water is essential for cooking pasta to the right texture and enhancing its flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

The first step in preparing the Marry Me Chicken Pasta is to cook the chicken. This process begins by seasoning the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. These simple seasonings are all you need to bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.

Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear them for 4-5 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. It’s important to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it to retain its juices. Once done, set the chicken aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant. This step infuses the butter with the aroma of garlic, forming the base of the sauce.

Now, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. As the mixture starts to simmer, add the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, allowing the cheese to melt and thicken the sauce. For a touch of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Once the sauce reaches a smooth consistency, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and let everything simmer together for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne or fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving a bit of the pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once the chicken has rested, slice it into strips and add it back to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce. You can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Sprinkle with fresh basil and stir to combine.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Finally, plate the pasta and top it with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for garnish. Serve immediately while it’s still warm and creamy. The Marry Me Chicken Pasta is now ready to be enjoyed.

Why This Dish Will Have Them Falling in Love

The Marry Me Chicken Pasta isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. The richness of the creamy sauce, the tender chicken, and the bright sun-dried tomatoes all come together in perfect harmony. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures, from the creamy sauce to the slightly crispy chicken and the satisfying pasta. It’s a dish that’s perfect for impressing a partner, family, or even yourself—because everyone deserves to enjoy a meal this delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Thighs are slightly more flavorful and juicy, making them a great option if you prefer dark meat.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Marry Me Chicken Pasta by replacing the chicken with grilled mushrooms or tofu for a hearty alternative.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you like, such as spaghetti, rigatoni, or even ziti. Choose a pasta that will hold the sauce well.

5. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and toss it with freshly cooked pasta and chicken.

Conclusion

The Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the ultimate combination of comfort and romance in a dish. It’s creamy, savory, and just a little bit spicy, with the perfect balance of flavors to keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or treating yourself to something decadent, this dish will definitely win hearts. From the perfectly seared chicken to the rich, velvety sauce, every bite is guaranteed to be a delightful experience. So go ahead—make this dish, and get ready for everyone to fall in love with it.

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