Marry Me Chicken Pasta

The Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not just a dish, it’s a love affair on a plate. Picture this: you’re hosting a dinner for someone special, and you want to impress them with a meal that’s both comforting and gourmet. That’s where this delightful recipe comes in. The creamy, savory sauce hugs each strand of pasta, while the tender chicken adds a heartiness that makes this dish unforgettable. It has a way of making the kitchen feel warm and inviting, drawing everyone together around the table.

Main Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

The ingredients in the Marry Me Chicken Pasta are the stars of this culinary show. Each component plays a role in creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. The heart of the recipe lies in the perfectly cooked pasta, paired with succulent chicken, and a creamy sauce that ties everything together. You’ll find that each ingredient complements the others beautifully, resulting in a meal that’s bound to impress.

• 2 chicken breasts: The centerpiece of the dish, these breasts provide the protein and heartiness needed to make the meal satisfying.
• ½ teaspoon salt: An essential seasoning that enhances the flavor of each ingredient.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick that balances the creaminess of the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken and creating a lovely rich flavor.
• 12 oz pasta: The perfect vehicle for the sauce, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
• 1 tablespoon salt: Added to the boiling pasta water to season the noodles perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Additional oil adds richness and helps prevent the pasta from sticking.
• 5 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with a wonderful aroma and flavor.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Provides depth and moisture to the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luxurious texture that envelopes the pasta.
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Adds a tangy sweetness that brightens the dish.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Imparts a classic Italian flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers an earthy note that rounds out the flavor profile.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Gives a gentle heat that enhances the overall taste.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Enhances flavor and adds depth.
• ¾ cup parmesan, grated: The finishing touch that adds a nutty, creamy element to the sauce.
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves: For a pop of freshness, adding color and flavor at the end.

Step by Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Making the Marry Me Chicken Pasta is an enjoyable process that results in a remarkable dish. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to impress in no time. Let’s dive into the cooking!

1. Start by placing each chicken breast on a chopping board and pat them dry with kitchen paper. This ensures that the chicken gets a good sear.

2. Cover the chicken breast with parchment paper to protect the meat, and use the smooth side of a meat mallet (or the base of a heavy pan) to bash the chicken to an even thickness. This step is crucial for even cooking.

3. Repeat this process with the second chicken breast to ensure they cook uniformly.

4. Bring a large pan of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon salt and cook the pasta for 1 minute less than the packet instructions suggest. This will allow the pasta to finish cooking in the sauce later.

5. Once cooked, reserve 2 cups of the pasta cooking liquid and drain the pasta in a colander.

6. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy-based skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot before adding the chicken.

7. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the pan. Cook for 3 minutes on each side until golden brown, then transfer to a plate and keep covered. This will keep the chicken warm.

8. Reduce the heat to low, add the extra olive oil to the same skillet, then add the minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

9. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2 minutes, then add the heavy cream, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

10. Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle over the parmesan. Stir until the parmesan has melted into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency.

11. Return the pan to the heat and let the sauce simmer for 1 ½ minutes until it thickens slightly. This step is critical for that luxurious texture.

12. Add the drained pasta to the sauce along with ½ cup of the reserved cooking water. Stir gently to combine everything, cooking for about a minute. If the sauce becomes too thick, feel free to add more cooking water.

13. Add most of the fresh basil to the pan, stirring it in. This adds a burst of flavor and freshness.

14. Finally, slice the chicken breasts and place them on top of the pasta with the remaining basil and some extra parmesan to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy this culinary masterpiece!

Pro Tips and Tweaks

To elevate your Marry Me Chicken Pasta experience, here are some handy tips and tweaks to consider. Each one can help you make this dish your own while ensuring it remains delicious.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to store it in a freezer-safe container and defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve this dish with a side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.
• Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or mozzarella for a unique twist on the classic.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level. You can even omit them entirely if you prefer a milder dish.

Perfect Matches for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

When it comes to serving the Marry Me Chicken Pasta, the right accompaniments can elevate the dining experience. Here are some suggestions to make your meal complete:

• Fresh Garden Salad: Pair this dish with a crisp salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce left on the plate, adding a delightful crunch.
• Wine Pairing: Consider a chilled sparkling water or a light, non-alcoholic beverage to complement the meal without overpowering the flavors.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Grilled or steamed seasonal vegetables make a colorful and nutritious side that pairs beautifully.
• Occasional Dish: This pasta is perfect for special occasions like anniversaries and romantic dinners, but it’s also delightful for family gatherings.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently to enjoy again.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Marry Me Chicken Pasta truly stands out as a dish that blends comfort, romance, and flavor beautifully. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for special occasions. I encourage you to give it a try, whether for a loved one or just for yourself. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household, bringing warmth and joy to your dining table.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, Marry Me Chicken Pasta combines creamy goodness with tender chicken and al dente pasta. It's a dish that promises to impress and satisfy, making it perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Try it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Pasta

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 680 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Grater
• Frying Pan
• Skillet
• Chef's Knife
• Saucepan
• Large Pot

Ingredients

  

• 2 pieces chicken breasts
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• 12 oz pasta
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¾ cup parmesan, grated
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves

Instructions

 

• Start by placing each chicken breast on a chopping board and pat them dry with kitchen paper. This ensures that the chicken gets a good sear.
• Cover the chicken breast with parchment paper to protect the meat, and use the smooth side of a meat mallet (or the base of a heavy pan) to bash the chicken to an even thickness. This step is crucial for even cooking.
• Repeat this process with the second chicken breast to ensure they cook uniformly.
• Bring a large pan of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon salt and cook the pasta for 1 minute less than the packet instructions suggest. This will allow the pasta to finish cooking in the sauce later.
• Once cooked, reserve 2 cups of the pasta cooking liquid and drain the pasta in a colander.
• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy-based skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot before adding the chicken.
• Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the pan. Cook for 3 minutes on each side until golden brown, then transfer to a plate and keep covered. This will keep the chicken warm.
• Reduce the heat to low, add the extra olive oil to the same skillet, then add the minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
• Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2 minutes, then add the heavy cream, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
• Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle over the parmesan. Stir until the parmesan has melted into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency.
• Return the pan to the heat and let the sauce simmer for 1 ½ minutes until it thickens slightly. This step is critical for that luxurious texture.
• Add the drained pasta to the sauce along with ½ cup of the reserved cooking water. Stir gently to combine everything, cooking for about a minute. If the sauce becomes too thick, feel free to add more cooking water.
• Add most of the fresh basil to the pan, stirring it in. This adds a burst of flavor and freshness.
• Finally, slice the chicken breasts and place them on top of the pasta with the remaining basil and some extra parmesan to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy this culinary masterpiece!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
• Tip 2: This dish can be frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to store it in a freezer-safe container and defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Tip 3: Serve this dish with a side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.
• Tip 4: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
• Tip 5: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or mozzarella for a unique twist on the classic.
• Tip 6: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level. You can even omit them entirely if you prefer a milder dish.

Keyword Creamy Chicken Pasta, Easy Chicken Dinner, Marry Me Chicken Pasta, Romantic Pasta Recipe