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Why Make This Recipe
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dish that can win anyone’s heart. It combines tender chicken with a creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and pasta, making it a wholesome meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or just want to treat yourself, this recipe is sure to deliver comfort and romance on a plate.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (sliced or cubed)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained and chopped)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- ½ lb (8 oz) penne pasta
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Season and Sear the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 5–7 minutes until it is browned and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Make the Roux: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes.
Create the Sauce: Slowly pour in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream, whisking all the while to prevent lumps. Stir until the sauce thickens. Add the freshly grated parmesan cheese and mix until it melts smoothly into the sauce.
Add Flavor: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let everything simmer for a few minutes to combine the flavors.
Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce. Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta until al dente. Drain the pasta and toss it into the sauce mixture until every piece is well-coated.
Garnish and Serve: Top your dish with chopped fresh basil and serve immediately while hot and creamy.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This marry me chicken pasta is best served fresh out of the skillet. You can pair it with a light salad or garlic bread to create a full meal. Whether for date night or a family dinner, serve it warm, and let the flavors shine.
How to Store Marry Me Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to enjoy it again.
Tips to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Make sure to season your chicken well for the best flavor.
- If you want a bit more spice, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Use a good quality parmesan cheese for a richer flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to hold its shape in the sauce.
Variation
For a healthier twist, you can substitute the penne pasta with whole grain or gluten-free pasta. You could also add a variety of vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, to increase the nutritional value.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking it to ensure even cooking.
2. Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Absolutely! You can use mushrooms or tofu in place of chicken and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and combine it with the pasta and chicken just before serving.