Marry Me Chicken Pasta
A creamy and comforting chicken pasta dish that's perfect for impressing loved ones, filled with flavor and warmth.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken Breasts, boneless, skinless Can be substituted with chicken thighs.
- 8 ounces Pasta (fettuccine or penne) Whole wheat or gluten-free options can be used.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced Adjust according to taste.
- ½ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option.
- 2 cups Fresh Spinach Kale or arugula can be substitutes.
- ½ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Adjust for desired heat level.
- to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For sautéing the chicken.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about a cup of the pasta water.
Sautéing the Chicken
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.
Creating the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a simmer, then stir in the parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper.
Adding Spinach and Combining Ingredients
- Toss in the spinach, gently stirring until it wilts into the sauce. Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet with the cooked pasta. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
Serving
- Plate the meal, garnishing with additional parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
For added flavors, incorporate peas, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Consider adding jalapeños for extra spice.