Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe: A Love Affair with Flavor
If you’re searching for a dish that combines romance, comfort, and irresistible flavor, look no further than Marry Me Chicken Pasta. With its tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce, this dish has earned its whimsical name by enchanting taste buds and inspiring countless love stories. Whether you’re looking to impress someone special or simply treat yourself, this pasta dish is a surefire way to make hearts flutter.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz dried pasta of choice: Opt for fettuccine, penne, or linguine. Each type offers a slightly different texture and experience.
- 1 pound chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and even distribution.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes (½ cup, chopped): Use oil-packed for added richness, or dry-packed for a more concentrated flavor.
Seasonings and Aromatics
- Italian Seasoning (½ teaspoon): A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds a quintessential Italian flair.
- Smoked Paprika (½ teaspoon): For a hint of smoky warmth.
- Red Pepper Flakes (½ teaspoon): Adjust the heat to your liking.
- Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon) and Fresh Garlic (3-4 cloves, minced): Layered garlic flavor is key.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
Creamy Sauce Components
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): Creates a luscious, rich base. Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully, enhancing the sauce’s creaminess.
- Butter (1 Tablespoon): Adds depth and richness to the dish.
Finishing Touches
- Olive Oil (1 Tablespoon): For sautéing and infusing flavor.
- Basil Leaves: A fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and a subtle herbal note.
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your chosen pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water. This starchy liquid can be used later to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they turn translucent and fragrant. This forms the flavor base for your sauce.
3. Cook the Chicken
Add butter to the skillet, followed by the chicken pieces. Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Create the Sauce
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
5. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Pasta
Fold in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tangy sweetness. Add the cooked pasta, tossing to coat each piece in the luxurious sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, use the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
6. Garnish and Serve
Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large dish. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic and visually appealing finish. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh Parmesan, high-quality sun-dried tomatoes, and good olive oil make a noticeable difference.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Cook just until done.
- Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy liquid helps loosen the sauce without diluting its flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Always taste your sauce and adjust the salt, pepper, and spice levels as needed.