Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Recipe to Win Hearts
Imagine stepping into a cozy kitchen where the aroma of simmering garlic and sun-dried tomatoes invites you like an old friend. This is what cooking Marry Me Chicken Pasta feels like—a warm embrace of flavors that can turn an ordinary meal into a heartfelt memory. Whether you’re preparing a dinner for two or hosting a festive gathering, this delightful recipe promises to create lasting connections, making it the perfect homemade meal for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Marry Me Chicken Pasta isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Here are some heartfelt reasons to embrace this recipe:
- Delicious Flavors: The creamy sauce combined with tender chicken and pasta is simply irresistible.
- Easy to Prepare: Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned chef, this dish is straightforward and quick to make.
- Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a guaranteed hit with family and friends, even picky eaters will ask for seconds!
- Budget-Friendly: Using wholesome ingredients doesn’t have to break the bank, making it an ideal weeknight dinner.
- Comforting and Cozy: The creamy sauce and flavorful garlic create a warm, inviting meal perfect for chilly evenings or intimate gatherings.
Ingredients
To create this enchanting dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Try using thighs for more flavor and moisture.
- 8 ounces of penne pasta: Swap with gluten-free pasta if desired.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A splash of lemon-infused olive oil can elevate the taste.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh is best, but jarred works in a pinch.
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Look for ones packed in oil for extra flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish: Nutritional yeast makes a great vegan substitute.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhance flavors with fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish: Adds a lovely pop of color and flavor.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Perfect for a quick dinner idea that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, saving a cup of the pasta water.
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Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once shimmering, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and let it sauté for about 30 seconds, allowing it to release that nutty aroma—be careful not to let it burn!
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Make the Sauce: Add the sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet, followed by the heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Add Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and creamy.
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Combine It All: Slice the chicken and return it to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta, tossing everything together gently. If the sauce is too thick, pour in a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Garnish and Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese. Don’t forget to inhale deeply; that warm, inviting aroma makes all the effort worthwhile!
Variations and Twists
Feel free to get creative with Marry Me Chicken Pasta! Here are a few fun ideas:
- Add Vegetables: Spinach, asparagus, or zucchini make great additions for a colorful, healthier dish.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes will bring a delightful heat to this comforting pasta.
- Festive Flavors: Consider pumpkin puree in autumn for a seasonal twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Marry Me Chicken Pasta as a centerpiece for a cozy dinner at home, or dress it up for special occasions. Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread to create a complete and satisfying meal. Don’t forget a glass of white wine to elevate the experience!
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers are a joy with Marry Me Chicken Pasta! Store any uneaten pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, consider adding a splash of cream or pasta water to maintain that luscious sauce without drying it out.
Kitchen Tips for Success
- Season Your Pasta Water: Salting your boiling water properly enhances the flavor of the pasta.
- Let the Chicken Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to ensure each piece is juicy.
- Customize Creaminess: Adjust the amount of cream based on your preference for a lighter or richer sauce.
- Herbal Variations: Experiment with rosemary or thyme for a different aromatic experience.
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work, but cooking time may vary. -
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and reheat it. Just cook the pasta fresh before serving. -
Is it freezer-friendly?
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the sauce and cooked chicken separately. Reheat and combine when ready to serve.
Conclusion
As you gather around the table with family and friends, let Marry Me Chicken Pasta be the dish that sparks joy, laughter, and love. This delightful recipe not only warms the stomach but also nurtures the soul, forging connections that last long after the last bite. So, grab those ingredients and get cooking, because every moment spent in the kitchen crafting this comforting meal is a moment well worth it. Share the love, enjoy the process, and let the flavors bring you together in delightful harmony!
Contents
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Try using thighs for more flavor and moisture.
- 8 ounces penne pasta Swap with gluten-free pasta if desired.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil A splash of lemon-infused olive oil can elevate the taste.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh is best, but jarred works in a pinch.
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped Look for ones packed in oil for extra flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream For a lighter option, use half-and-half.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Plus more for garnish. Nutritional yeast makes a great vegan substitute.
- Salt and pepper to taste Enhance flavors with fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish Adds a lovely pop of color and flavor.
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, saving a cup of the pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once shimmering, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and let it sauté for about 30 seconds, allowing it to release that nutty aroma—be careful not to let it burn!
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet, followed by the heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Add Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and creamy.
- Slice the chicken and return it to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta, tossing everything together gently. If the sauce is too thick, pour in a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy the warm, inviting aroma!