This Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is such a treat! It brings together tender chicken and a creamy sauce, all in one comforting dish. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to have it on repeat.
This recipe addresses issues of overcooked chicken and dry pasta, making it easy for beginner cooks with straightforward ingredients and cooking methods.
I know how tough it can be to find recipes that are both tasty and easy for busy nights. This dish solves that problem, making dinner a breeze without sacrificing flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can whip this up in no time.
What I love about this recipe is that it takes just 30 minutes from start to finish. That means you can enjoy a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the creamy sauce clings perfectly to the penne pasta, making it so enjoyable.
If you need another easy recipe to pair with this one, I’ve got just the thing! If you want something different, try this Creamy Taco Shrimp Pasta Delight.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Tender Chicken , The chicken turns out juicy and flavorful, making each bite satisfying and rich without being heavy, thanks to the perfect cooking time.
- Unique Flavor , Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy twist to the creamy sauce, giving this dish a deliciously different taste that keeps you coming back for more.
- Quick Prep Time , You can whip this meal up in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without all the fuss.
- Easy Storage , Leftovers can be stored easily in an airtight container for up to four days, so you can enjoy this dish again without losing any flavor.
Ingredient Notes
- Boneless skinless chicken: You’ll want this for a juicy base, and it cooks up nicely. Look for breast pieces that are plump and tender.
- Penne pasta: This shape holds onto the sauce really well. I like to use whole wheat for a nuttier taste, too!
- Heavy cream: Adds a rich, creamy consistency to the sauce. Make sure to get the good stuff, and look for a brand without added thickeners.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is the way to go for maximum flavor. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano can work as a substitute!
- Sun-dried tomatoes: These bring a pop of tartness that balances the creaminess. Check that they’re not packed in oil if you want less grease!
Keep scrolling to the recipe card below for the full printable recipe!
Recipe Tips
- If the chicken looks dry, checking with a meat thermometer for 165°F will keep it juicy and tender.
- When the sauce thickens too much, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream can help achieve a creamy consistency.
- For pasta that sticks together, tossing it with a bit of olive oil after cooking will keep it separated and enjoyable.
- If you’re looking for extra flavor, sprinkling red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick to the dish.
- For the best taste, using freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded cheese makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve marry me chicken pasta with garlic bread for a comforting meal. Add a side salad for a fresh contrast to the dish.
- You can use leftovers in a pasta bake or mix them into a cheesy casseroles for easy meals. This pasta works well in dishes like chicken Alfredo or creamy chicken soup, adding depth to those recipes.
- Top with extra parmesan or fresh basil to complete the presentation. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds finishing touches as well.
Storage Guidelines
- To keep your marry me chicken pasta fresh, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
- Freezing: Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Room Temperature: Avoid storing at room temperature for safety. Consume leftovers or store in the fridge immediately after serving.
Recipe Variations
- You can use 1 ½ pounds of large shrimp instead of chicken for a delightful seafood version.
- Add 2 cups of fresh spinach or kale for a nutritious green boost.
- Either try using 1 cup of mozzarella cheese for a milder taste or opt for 1 cup of feta for a tangy twist.
- If you’re making a larger batch, increase the chicken to 2 pounds and the pasta to 16 ounces for every 4 additional servings.
More Similar Recipes
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Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken and sun-dried tomatoes, all tossed with penne pasta.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken cut into 1-inch pieces
- 10 ounces penne pasta
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons garlic minced
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese grated
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes drained
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil for garnish
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Start by cooking the chicken in olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it is golden brown and just cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. You will know it is ready when it emits a savory aroma and no longer looks pink. Avoid overcrowding the pan for proper searing.
- Melt the butter in the same skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and stir until it becomes fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will turn bitter.
- Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and butter, mixing it in until fully absorbed to form a roux. The mixture will thicken slightly. Keep stirring to avoid lumps.
- Slowly pour the chicken broth into the roux while continuously whisking, creating a smooth mixture. Take your time to avoid clumps.
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese until melted and combined, forming a creamy sauce. Avoid overcooking to prevent curdling.
- Toss in the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. The sauce should brighten up and become aromatic. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- In a separate pot, cook the penne pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water if needed to prevent sticking.
- Gently fold the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil. Serve immediately.
Notes
Keep leftovers tightly covered in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed for moisture.
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