Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a deliciously rich and creamy dish that blends tender chicken, parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes with penne pasta. This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special romantic date night. Its unique flavors and creamy texture make it a standout meal that might just inspire a proposal!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken & Pasta
• For the Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
• Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
• Step 4: Whisk in Liquids
• Step 5: Add Flavorings
• Step 6: Combine Ingredients
• Step 7: Garnish & Serve
• How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Pair with a Fresh Salad
• Add Some Bread
• Top It Off
• How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Reheating Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What Makes This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe Special?
• Can I Use Different Pasta Types?
• How Can I Customize This Recipe?
• Is This Recipe Suitable for Meal Prep?
• What Should I Serve With Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 30 minutes of total cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without the hassle.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and spices creates a sauce that’s both comforting and exciting.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal. It fits perfectly in any dining setting.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress your family or guests, making it ideal for gatherings or special occasions.
• Easy to Customize: You can easily tweak the ingredients based on what you have at home or personal preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows you to cook the chicken evenly while providing enough room to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A quality pot ensures your pasta cooks thoroughly, preventing clumping.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools are great for stirring sauces without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Pasta

• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 10 ounces penne pasta
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• Fresh basil, chopped
• Additional parmesan cheese (optional)

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How to Make Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic; sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in flour; cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly to create a roux.

Step 4: Whisk in Liquids

Slowly whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Add Flavorings

Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Simmer sauce for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Return cooked chicken and penne pasta to skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly with sauce.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and additional parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that can be paired with various sides and garnishes to elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing complement the richness of the pasta.
• Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.

Add Some Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Italian Focaccia: This soft, flavorful bread adds a lovely texture to your meal.

Top It Off

• Chopped Fresh Basil: Adding fresh basil not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of extra parmesan can elevate the dish’s cheesy goodness.

How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

To ensure your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality parmesan cheese make a significant difference in flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Aim for pasta that is slightly firm. It will absorb flavors better when combined with the sauce.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water or broth gradually until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Season Generously: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout the cooking process for optimal flavor.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the pasta to sit for a few minutes after combining it with the sauce helps meld the flavors together.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Serving side dishes alongside your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta enhances the meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy crunch that pairs well with creamy dishes.
2. Roasted Asparagus: The earthy flavor of roasted asparagus complements the richness of chicken pasta beautifully.
3. Mixed Vegetables Stir-Fry: A vibrant mix of seasonal vegetables stir-fried in olive oil offers freshness and color to your plate.
4. Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and fresh basil, bruschetta provides a zesty bite before diving into your main dish.
5. Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette balances out the creamy pasta nicely.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs serves as a mild backdrop that won’t overshadow the main event.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can lead to dry meat. Ensure that you cook it just until no longer pink in the center.
• Not Draining Pasta Properly: If you don’t drain the pasta well, excess water can dilute your sauce. Make sure to drain it thoroughly before adding it to the skillet.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Forgetting to season your chicken and sauce can result in bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper during cooking for a more flavorful dish.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold ingredients like cream or chicken broth can shock the sauce. Allow them to reach room temperature before mixing them in.
• Rushing the Sauce: Don’t skip simmering time for the sauce; this step helps develop flavors. Allow it to thicken slightly before combining with chicken and pasta.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, then heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream and stir occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe Special?

This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy parmesan sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes, creating an irresistible meal perfect for any occasion.

Can I Use Different Pasta Types?

Yes, while penne is recommended, you can use other shapes like fusilli or farfalle based on your preference.

How Can I Customize This Recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition. You can also adjust spice levels according to your taste.

Is This Recipe Suitable for Meal Prep?

Absolutely! It’s easy to prepare ahead of time and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.

What Should I Serve With Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

This dish pairs well with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any dinner table. You can easily customize it with different proteins or vegetables based on your taste preferences. Whether it’s date night or a family meal, this comforting dish is sure to impress everyone at your table!

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