Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Name: Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast; 10 ounces penne pasta; 3 tablespoons butter; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes; Fresh basil for garnish

Published: May 2, 2025

by Lizzy

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This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a romantic dinner or a casual gathering with friends. With its creamy sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce and tender chicken, it promises to impress everyone at the table. This recipe combines ease of preparation with rich flavors, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight meals and special celebrations.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deliciously Creamy: The sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce adds a rich, velvety texture that elevates the dish.
Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, this meal fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this flavorful pasta dish, making it a hit for family dinners.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal experience.
Impress Your Guests: Serve this dish at gatherings to wow your friends and family with your culinary skills.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Pot for boiling pasta
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: This is essential for cooking the chicken and making the sauce all in one pan, which saves time on cleanup.
Pot for boiling pasta: A good pot ensures even cooking of the penne to al dente perfection.
Whisk: Using a whisk helps create a smooth sauce by thoroughly mixing ingredients without lumps.

Ingredients

This rich and creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, al dente penne, and a flavorful sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce. With a perfect balance of creaminess and spice, this dish is sure to impress anyone who tries it!

For the Chicken Pasta

1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
10 ounces penne pasta
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce

3 tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons garlic, minced
3 tablespoons flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
1 teaspoon paprika
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning

For Garnish

Fresh basil, for garnish

Enjoy this irresistible, flavor-packed dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad!

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, forming a paste.
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese until smooth.
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce.
Garnish with fresh basil and additional parmesan cheese before serving.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Serving Marry Me Chicken Pasta is all about enhancing its creamy goodness and making it a delightful meal experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining.

With Garlic Bread

Enjoy warm, crusty garlic bread on the side for a perfect combination of flavors. It’s great for soaking up the delicious sauce!

Tossed Salad

A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch to balance the rich pasta dish. Try adding cherry tomatoes and cucumber for extra flavor.

Wine Pairing

Pair this dish with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, to complement the creamy sauce beautifully.

Grated Parmesan

Serve additional grated parmesan cheese on top for those who love a cheesy finish. It enhances the overall flavor profile.

Fresh Basil Garnish

A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens every bite of the pasta.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To ensure that your Marry Me Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips.

Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken and high-quality parmesan cheese for the best taste.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook your penne al dente so it holds its shape and texture in the dish.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference.
Let It Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps meld the flavors together for a richer taste.
Add Vegetables: For added nutrition, consider incorporating spinach or bell peppers into the dish.
Reheat Gently: If you have leftovers, reheat slowly over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Complementing your Marry Me Chicken Pasta with tasty side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad brings crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing that pairs well with pasta.
Steamed Vegetables
Lightly steamed broccoli or asparagus add color and nutrients while keeping your meal balanced.
Roasted Potatoes
Crispy roasted potatoes offer a hearty side that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta dish.
Caprese Salad
A simple Caprese salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provides a refreshing touch.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes create an indulgent side that complements the rich flavors of the chicken pasta.
Bruschetta
Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes for a flavorful appetizer before diving into the main course.
Zucchini Noodles
For a lighter option, zucchini noodles can be served alongside or underneath the pasta for added texture.
Antipasto Platter
An antipasto platter filled with olives, cured meats, and cheeses offers variety and flavor before enjoying your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Marry Me Chicken Pasta can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F and remove it from heat as soon as it’s no longer pink.
Ignoring Pasta Instructions: Not following package instructions may lead to mushy or undercooked pasta. Always check cooking times and test for al dente texture.
Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season your chicken and sauce can result in bland flavors. Use salt, pepper, and fresh herbs generously to enhance the dish.
Rushing the Sauce: Trying to rush the sauce can prevent it from thickening properly. Allow it to simmer gently until it reaches your desired consistency.
Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap ingredients can compromise flavor. Opt for high-quality chicken, fresh garlic, and good parmesan cheese for best results.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe dish on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy dish featuring tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and penne pasta in a rich parmesan sauce that’s irresistible.

How can I customize my Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or substitute grilled shrimp instead of chicken for variety.

Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just combine everything before serving.

What type of pasta works best in this recipe?

Penne pasta is recommended due to its ability to hold onto the sauce well. However, you could also use fettuccine or rotini.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not only rich and creamy but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. This dish is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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