Marry Me Chicken Pasta
A delightful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil, perfect for family gatherings or romantic dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large Chicken breasts For a lighter option, use chicken thighs.
- 1 cup Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped Try using fresh tomatoes for a different take.
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced The aromatic backbone of the dish.
- 1 cup Heavy cream You could use half-and-half for a creamier texture.
- ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, grated Feel free to substitute with Pecorino Romano.
- ½ cup Basil leaves, fresh Use spinach or arugula if you're out of basil.
- 8 ounces Pasta Any kind you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil Use butter for a richer flavor.
- Salt and pepper To taste, always add these last for the best flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook your pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside, but reserve a cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- In the same skillet, add the sun-dried tomatoes, sauté briefly before pouring in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently, stirring occasionally.
- Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce.
- Slide the chicken back into the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss gently, adding pasta water as needed to reach your desired creaminess.
- Stir in the fresh basil before serving.
Notes
For creative variations, consider adding red pepper flakes for spice, tossing in sautéed vegetables, or substituting Greek yogurt for heavy cream. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.