Ah, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish—Marry Me Chicken Pasta! Now, before you start thinking this is just some fancy name, let me assure you, this dish has a charming story behind it. The name derives from the magic that happens when you take a bite; it’s that delicious! Legend has it that anyone who’s cooked this pasta dish will have their partner so smitten they’ll be proposing in no time. Of course, I can’t guarantee a ring, but I can promise it’ll make your dinner unforgettable!
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a cozy date night at home. I wanted to whip up something special that would wow my partner without taking all evening in the kitchen. Voila! This pasta became a showstopper, and now it’s a staple for celebrations, cozy nights in, or just as a reward after a long day. So, buckle up, because this pasta is about to steal the spotlight on your dinner table!
What’s in Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Spaghetti or pasta of choice: I love using spaghetti for this recipe because it soaks up the sauce beautifully, but feel free to use penne or fettuccine if you prefer!
Olive oil: This silky oil brings a lovely depth of flavor to our dish. I always opt for extra virgin olive oil—it’s worth it!
Chicken breasts: The star protein of our show! Make sure to cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and maximum flavor.
Salt and pepper: The simplest yet most crucial seasoning! Don’t skimp on seasonings—they’re your best friends in cooking.
Garlic: A must-have in any savory dish, right? Fresh minced garlic gives this pasta an irresistible aroma and flavor.
Sun-dried tomatoes: These add a burst of tangy flavor that elevates the dish. I prefer the kind packed in oil, as they tend to be juicier.
Chicken broth: This provides a rich base for the sauce. I like low-sodium varieties to keep the dish from becoming too salty.
Heavy cream: Because it’s all about that creamy goodness! This will make the sauce decadent and luscious.
Parmesan cheese: Can you even have pasta without a sprinkle of cheese? This adds both flavor and creaminess.
Italian seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme that brings all those Italian vibes to our dish.
Fresh parsley: This isn’t just for looks! A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds a fresh finish to your beautiful pasta.
Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta Good for You?
This pasta dish is definitely a treat! The ingredients provide a good source of protein from the chicken and the creamy sauce delivers a comforting richness. Let’s break it down a bit:
Chicken breasts: Lean protein that helps you feel full and satisfied without a ton of extra fat.
Olive oil: Packed with healthy fats, olive oil can help support heart health. Plus, it adds flavor!
Sun-dried tomatoes: Not just delicious, but they also contain antioxidants that can be beneficial to your health.
The downside? Well, it *is* rich, thanks to the heavy cream and cheese, so if you’re watching fat intake, maybe save this for a special occasion. But hey, balance is key, right? Enjoying a good meal in moderation can be a big part of a healthy lifestyle.
Ingredients List
– 8 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
*Serves: 4*
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
1. Start by cooking the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. While that’s cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper before adding them to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through—about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if necessary, and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Ah, that smell!
4. Now toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute.
5. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any delicious brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring that to a simmer!
6. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until it’s all smooth and dreamy.
7. Add the Italian seasoning and return the chicken to the skillet, stirring everything together until the chicken is heated through and coated in that lovely sauce.
8. Toss in the cooked pasta and mix until each strand is beautifully coated in the sauce.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and get ready to serve up a plate of happiness!
Serving Suggestions and Tips for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
If you’re looking to elevate your dinner even more, consider serving this dish alongside a fresh garden salad or a warm, crusty baguette to soak up every drop of that creamy sauce. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top for the cheese lovers!
Want a little kick? Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy twist. If you’re in the mood for veggies, throw in some spinach or broccoli right before serving—just let them wilt in that creamy goodness!
I encourage you to give this Marry Me Chicken Pasta a whirl! I can’t wait for you to experience the delight of every bite. Don’t forget to share your cooking adventures with me—I’d love to hear your stories! Happy cooking!
