Ah, Marry Me Chicken Pasta! This delicious recipe holds a special place in my heart—not just because of the incredible flavors it brings together, but also because of the delightful story behind its name. Legend has it that if you serve this dish to your significant other, they might just pop the question. Now, I can’t promise it’ll work for everyone, but I can tell you that it’s been a showstopper in my kitchen!
Whenever I make this dish, I can’t help but think back to cozy nights spent with friends, all gathered around the table, digging into creamy pasta and sharing laughter. It’s one of those meals that instantly brings people together, and my loved ones can never resist asking for seconds (and then thirds). If you haven’t tried this yet, I think it’s time you do!
What’s in Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Let’s break down the star players in this enchanting dish:
Penne Pasta: The hearty and sturdy shape that holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly. I like to use whole wheat penne for a bit more nutrition, but traditional works wonders too!
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The protein of the dish, sliced to ensure a good sear and quick cooking. You can substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor!
Olive Oil: A must-have for sautéing the chicken and building flavor in the sauce. I always reach for extra virgin olive oil for its robust taste.
Garlic: Because what’s a dish without garlic? I use fresh garlic here for a punchy taste that mingles beautifully with the other ingredients.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These little beauties bring a burst of sweetness and a delightful tang. They add a pop of color and flavor you won’t want to skip!
Heavy Cream: The secret to that luxurious, creamy texture. Be warned—once you use heavy cream in a dish, you may never turn back!
Chicken Broth: To lighten the sauce while keeping it savory. Low-sodium is my go-to to keep the salt levels in check.
Parmesan Cheese: Ah, the finishing touch! It not only thickens the sauce but adds a nutty, cheesy deliciousness. Grate your own for the best flavor.
Italian Seasoning: A fragrant blend that complements the dish beautifully. A sprinkle of dried herbs never hurt anyone!
Salt and Pepper: Essential – adjust these to your taste!
Fresh Parsley: Not only does it garnish the dish, but it also freshens things up with its vibrant color and flavor.
Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta Good for You?
This dish absolutely delivers on flavor, and while it’s indulgent, there are some health aspects to consider.
Chicken: A great source of lean protein, helping to keep you full while building muscle.
Pasta: It may be carb-heavy, but whole grain options can keep up your fiber intake, too!
Heavy Cream: This ingredient ultimately amps up the calories, so if you’re watching your intake, consider using half-and-half or a lighter cream, but do keep in mind the richness may suffer a bit.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They come packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals—kudos to them! Just be mindful of the sodium if you’re using oil-packed varieties.
So, while this dish is certainly comforting and delicious, moderation is key if you’re looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Ingredients
This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Let’s cook up some magic:
1. Start by cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions until it’s beautifully al dente. Drain and set it aside (but don’t forget to save a touch of that pasta water—you might need it later).
2. In a sizable skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken with salt and pepper before adding it to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set it aside (let it relax for a bit!).
3. In that same skillet (why waste flavor?), toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, then add the sun-dried tomatoes. Cook these for an additional 2 minutes to let those flavors mingle.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly for about 3-4 minutes—this is where the magic begins!
5. Stir in the heavy cream, followed by the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Mix it all together until the sauce is smooth and creamy—don’t let any lumps diminish your pasta’s glory!
6. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the drained penne pasta. Toss everything until it’s well-coated in that luscious sauce.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes just to heat through, adjusting the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Voilà! You’re ready to impress!
Magical Serving Suggestions
This dish can steal the spotlight on its own, but I love to pair it with some crusty garlic bread or a light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. And trust me, leftovers (if there are any!) make an incredible lunch the next day.
So, my dear kitchen adventurers, I wholeheartedly encourage you to whip up Marry Me Chicken Pasta and serve it to someone special—even if that someone is just you! It’s creamy, comforting, and a deliciously memorable meal. Don’t forget to share your experience with me—I’d love to hear how it went! Happy cooking!
