Introduction
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that has taken the culinary world by storm. This dish combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan cheese, and a luscious creamy sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Its name suggests that it’s so delicious, it could inspire a marriage proposal! Whether you’re making it for a romantic dinner or a comforting family meal, this dish is sure to impress.
The rich, creamy sauce coats every strand of pasta, while the tangy sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of flavor. If you love a dish that’s both indulgent and easy to make, this recipe is a must-try.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
- Rich & Creamy: A decadent sauce made with heavy cream, parmesan, and garlic.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and herbs makes it irresistible.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for date nights, family dinners, or special gatherings.
Origin of Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Marry Me Chicken is said to have originated in American kitchens as a variation of creamy Tuscan chicken. Its name comes from the idea that the dish is so good, anyone who tastes it might propose! The addition of pasta turns this popular dish into a hearty and satisfying meal.
Interesting Facts About This Dish
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a rich, tangy flavor that enhances the creamy sauce.
- Parmesan cheese not only adds a nutty depth but also helps thicken the sauce.
- The dish can be customized with different pasta types or protein variations.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups penne or fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Method of Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1 minute.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Stir in parmesan cheese and let simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
- Slice the cooked chicken and add it back to the skillet.
- Toss in the cooked pasta and stir until well coated in the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Tips:
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
- Let the sauce simmer until thickened for a rich and creamy consistency.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry.
- Adding cheese too early; let the sauce simmer before stirring it in to prevent clumping.
- Using too much liquid, which can make the sauce too thin.
Serving Tips
- Serve with garlic bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with a glass of white wine like Chardonnay for an elegant touch.
- Sprinkle extra parmesan and cracked black pepper on top for added flavor.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Chicken: A great source of lean protein for muscle health.
- Garlic: Contains antioxidants that support heart health.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Packed with vitamins A and C, boosting immunity.
- Parmesan Cheese: Provides calcium for strong bones.
Summarized Recipe
- Cook pasta and set aside.
- Season and cook chicken until golden brown.
- Make the creamy sauce with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and heavy cream.
- Add parmesan, chicken, and pasta to the sauce.
- Toss well, garnish, and serve hot.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish to impress your loved ones. Whether for a special dinner or a cozy night in, its creamy, flavorful goodness will make anyone fall in love with every bite! Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.
