Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
If you’ve ever wanted to make a dish so delicious that it might earn you a proposal, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the answer. This creamy, flavorful pasta dish is loaded with tender chicken, rich sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and aromatic herbs, all tossed in a luscious cream sauce. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner, special occasion, or just a cozy night at home. With a name like this, expectations are high, but this recipe won’t disappoint!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – 2 large (sliced in half horizontally)
- Salt and black pepper – to taste
- All-purpose flour – ½ cup (for dredging)
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
For the Sauce:
- Garlic cloves – 3, minced
- Sun-dried tomatoes – ½ cup, chopped (oil-packed for best flavor)
- Chicken broth – 1 cup
- Heavy cream – 1 cup
- Grated Parmesan cheese – ½ cup
- Crushed red pepper flakes – ½ teaspoon (optional, for a hint of heat)
- Dried oregano – 1 teaspoon
- Fresh basil – chopped, for garnish
For the Pasta:
- Pasta of your choice – 12 oz (fettuccine or penne work best)
- Salt – for pasta water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper.
- Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in a pot of salted boiling water. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, add a bit more oil if necessary and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, and oregano. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.
Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to absorb some of the sauce.
Step 5: Toss with Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, gently tossing it to coat in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your liking.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving: Serve hot, topped with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Pair with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Helpful Notes
- Chicken Variations: For a more indulgent version, use chicken thighs instead of breasts; they’re naturally juicier.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Substitute: If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes roasted with a bit of olive oil and salt can be a decent substitute.
- Extra Vegetables: Add spinach or baby kale during the last minute of simmering for a pop of color and added nutrients.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef’s Secret: “Always let the chicken rest after searing—it helps retain its juices when mixed with the sauce,” says Chef Laura Martin, known for her comforting, Italian-inspired dishes.
- Balancing Acidity: Chef Miguel Perez advises, “Add a splash of white wine before the chicken broth if you want a touch of acidity to cut through the creaminess.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, prepare the chicken and sauce ahead and store them separately. Cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving for best results.
2. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream? Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. To thicken, add an extra tablespoon of Parmesan or simmer the sauce a bit longer.
3. What pasta works best for this dish? Fettuccine, penne, or tagliatelle hold the sauce well, but any pasta will work in a pinch.
4. How do I make this gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour for dredging and swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta.
5. Is there a non-dairy alternative? Use coconut cream or a cashew cream substitute, and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese.
6. Can I use a different protein? Yes, shrimp or even tofu can be used for a pescatarian or vegetarian twist.
7. How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes? The ½ teaspoon adds mild heat. Adjust according to your spice preference or omit for a non-spicy version.
8. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried? Yes, but sauté them longer to reduce their water content and intensify the flavor.
9. How do I avoid curdling the cream? Ensure the sauce simmers gently and isn’t at a rolling boil when adding the cream.
10. Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Just make sure your skillet is large enough to handle the extra portions evenly.
Final Thoughts
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a dinner recipe—it’s a gesture of love, comfort, and warmth. Whether you’re looking to impress someone special or treat yourself to a lavish meal, this dish is sure to deliver on flavor and delight. Enjoy every creamy, savory bite!