Picture this: a cozy evening, soft lighting, and the aroma of creamy pasta wafting through your home. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience, one that could seal the deal on love—or at least ensure a second helping. The marry me chicken pasta recipe isn’t just a romantic name; it’s a promise of indulgence. This dish has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of many with its perfectly cooked chicken, luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce, and pasta coated in perfection. Whether you’re planning a date night, family dinner, or special occasion, this recipe is your culinary cupid.
Why is it called “marry me”? Some say it’s because the flavors are so irresistible that you might just hear a proposal after the first bite. Others think it’s simply because this dish makes you fall in love—with food, life, and each other. Ready to cook up some magic? Let’s dive in!
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Cuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes25
minutes550
kcalThis marry me chicken pasta recipe combines tender chicken, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, and al dente pasta to create a dish so delicious, it might just spark a proposal! Perfect for romantic dinners or cozy family meals, this pasta will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
300g pasta (fettuccine or penne works best)
Fresh basil for garnish
Directions
- Cook the Pasta:
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. - Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked (about 5-6 minutes per side). Remove from skillet and set aside. - Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Add Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).
- Combine:
- Slice the chicken into strips and return it to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss until well coated with the sauce.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Sun-dried tomatoes in oil provide extra richness to the dish.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
Tips for the Success of Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente is key for the perfect texture.
- Balance the Heat: Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
- Let the Chicken Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Fresh basil adds a fragrant and flavorful touch, so don’t skip it!
- Make it Your Own: Add mushrooms or spinach for an extra layer of flavor.
Recipe Variants
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with roasted mushrooms or zucchini for a veggie twist.
- Seafood Option: Swap chicken with shrimp or scallops for a seafood indulgence.
- Spicy Upgrade: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for a fiery kick.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Serve the sauce over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded mozzarella for a gooey texture.
FAQ: Answering All Your Questions
Yes! Prepare the sauce and chicken in advance. Store separately, then reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
Absolutely! While fettuccine and penne work best, spaghetti, linguine, or even rigatoni are great alternatives.
Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Yes, simply adjust the red pepper flakes to keep it mild for younger palates.
Looking for more dishes to impress your loved ones? Try our Pasta and Peas Recipe for another comforting meal that’s easy to make and perfect for cozy evenings.
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Calories per Serving: ~650 kcal
- Category: Main Course
- Origin of Dish: Fusion of Italian and American cuisines
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving):
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fats: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
Health Benefits of Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Protein-Rich: The chicken provides high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Sun-dried tomatoes and olive oil add healthy fats, which are good for cardiovascular health.
- Bone Strength: Parmesan cheese is a great source of calcium and phosphorus.
- Mood-Boosting: The combination of creamy textures and comforting flavors promotes feelings of happiness and satisfaction.
- Versatile Ingredients: Swaps and additions can make it even healthier—try whole-grain pasta or add spinach for an extra nutrient boost.
The marry me chicken pasta recipe is more than a meal—it’s a statement of love and indulgence. With its creamy, flavorful sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is a testament to how food can bring people together. Whether you’re making it for a date night, family gathering, or simply to treat yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. From the first bite, you’ll understand why it’s earned its romantic name. Don’t be surprised if you get a standing ovation—or maybe even a marriage proposal. Cook it, love it, share it, and let the magic happen.
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