Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Indulge in the rich, flavorful combination of tender chicken and creamy pasta with this Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
The sauce, made with sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan cheese, and garlic, delivers a luscious blend of creamy richness and tangy flavor. Every bite is infused with savory herbs and a hint of smoky paprika, elevating the dish to unforgettable heights.
Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The recipe is easy to follow and full of tips for perfecting the dish every time.Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe: Key Ingredients
Chicken Breasts
Tender, boneless chicken breasts provide the heart of this dish, perfectly seared for a golden, flavorful crust that complements the creamy sauce.
Penne Pasta
The ultimate vessel for soaking up the rich, creamy sauce, penne pasta offers the perfect texture and bite, capturing every flavorful ingredient.
Parmesan Cheese
Sharp and savory, freshly grated parmesan melts seamlessly into the sauce, adding depth and a luxurious richness to each bite.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes
These tangy gems infuse the dish with a vibrant burst of flavor, balancing the creaminess with their signature “Marry Me” taste.
Garlic
Freshly minced garlic awakens the palate, delivering an aromatic punch that enriches the sauce with a layer of savory complexity.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: Opt for skinless boneless breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Penne Pasta: This pasta shape is excellent for capturing the creamy sauce.
- Olive Oil: Used for searing the chicken contributing a golden crust.
- Salt and Pepper: These fundamental seasonings enhance the flavor of the chicken and pasta.
- For the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce:
- Butter: Provides richness to the sauce.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for maximum flavor impact.
- Flour: Serves to thicken the sauce creating the desired consistency.
- Chicken Broth: Adds savory depth and adjusts the sauce’s texture.
- Heavy Cream: Delivers a luxurious creamy mouthfeel (half-and-half can be used as a lighter alternative).
- Parmesan Cheese: Contributes sharpness and a cheesy richness.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Imparts a tangy flavor defining the “Marry Me” essence of the dish.
- Paprika: Adds a hint of smoky warmth.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs such as oregano basil, and thyme that enhances the overall flavor.
- Fresh Basil: Serves as a bright aromatic garnish that ties all the flavors together.
Instructions
- How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- This delectable dish can be prepared in a mere 30 minutes, making it a staple on our dinner menu. Follow these steps for a delightful culinary experience:
- Cook the Penne: Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside while preparing the chicken and sauce.
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces (approximately 1 inch) and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes, until the chicken is no longer pink and fully cooked.
- Set the Chicken Aside: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Make the Sauce:
- Sauté Garlic and Make the Roux: In the same skillet, add butter and allow it to melt. Sauté the minced garlic for around 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Incorporate the flour, stirring to create a roux.
- Add Liquid and Cheese: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if necessary.
- Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, thickening to your desired consistency.
- Bring It All Together:
- Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained penne pasta. Gently stir until everything is thoroughly coated in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish the dish with freshly chopped basil and an additional sprinkle of parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy!
- Tips for Success
- Although Marry Me Chicken Pasta is easy to prepare, consider these additional tips to ensure outstanding results:
- Check the Temperature of Your Chicken: To guarantee the chicken is perfectly cooked and avoid overcooking, utilize a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Add Some Heat: For those who appreciate a bit of spice, consider sprinkling in red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences for an extra kick.
