Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This rich and creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, al dente penne, and a flavorful sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce. Perfect for date nights or family dinners, this dish is sure to impress anyone who tries it. With its ideal balance of creaminess and spice, it’s a meal that brings love to the table.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

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 Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
• Step 4: Combine and Serve
• How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Pair with Garlic Bread
• Serve with a Fresh Green Salad
• Add Roasted Vegetables
• Offer Grated Parmesan Cheese
• Include Crusty Baguette Slices
• Wine Pairing Suggestions
• How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Reheating Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
• Can I customize Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
• How long does it take to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
• What sides pair well with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavor Explosion: The sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan cheese create a rich flavor profile that elevates any meal.
• Versatile Dish: Pair it with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete dinner that suits any occasion.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 30 minutes, this pasta dish is ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether cooking for two or six, this dish satisfies everyone’s taste buds and leaves them wanting more.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for cooking the chicken and sauce together without overcrowding.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures even cooking of your penne for the best texture.
• Measuring cups: Help maintain accurate ingredient portions for consistent results every time.
• Whisk: Ideal for mixing sauces smoothly without lumps.

Ingredients

This rich and creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, al dente penne, and a flavorful sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce. With a perfect balance of creaminess and spice, this dish is sure to impress anyone who tries it!

For the Chicken Pasta:

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

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons 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

For Garnish:

• Fresh basil, for garnish

PIN THIS!

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, forming a paste.
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese until smooth.
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce.
Garnish with fresh basil and additional parmesan cheese before serving.

Enjoy this irresistible, flavor-packed dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your meal memorable.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• This classic side adds a crunchy texture and complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Serve with a Fresh Green Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.

Add Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables provide a colorful, nutritious side that enhances the meal’s flavor profile.

Offer Grated Parmesan Cheese

• Providing extra parmesan allows guests to customize their serving according to their cheese preference.

Include Crusty Baguette Slices

• Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce, baguette slices add another layer of enjoyment.

Wine Pairing Suggestions

• A glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the dish.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta

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

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes will elevate the flavors.
• Don’t overcook pasta: Cook the penne until al dente for the perfect bite; it should have a slight firmness.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
• Simmer for thickness: Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens for optimal creaminess.
• Garnish generously: Fresh basil and extra parmesan not only enhance appearance but also boost flavor.
• Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so serve right after combining everything!

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Complementing your Marry Me Chicken Pasta with side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli
2. Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while providing a crisp contrast to the pasta.
3. Caesar Salad
4. A Caesar salad brings together crunchy romaine lettuce, croutons, and creamy dressing for a satisfying side.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
6. Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort and pair well with the rich flavors of the pasta.
7. Caprese Skewers
8. These skewers made of fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes provide a refreshing bite between pasta servings.
9. Roasted Asparagus
10. Tender roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil makes an elegant side that’s easy to prepare.
11. Bruschetta
12. Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil adds crunch and freshness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the salt: Not seasoning the chicken and pasta can lead to bland flavors. Always season your ingredients properly for a well-balanced dish.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the penne too long can result in mushy pasta. Ensure you cook it al dente for the best texture.
• Neglecting to taste: Failing to taste the sauce before serving means you might miss opportunities to enhance the flavor. Adjust seasonings as needed.
• Using low-quality tomatoes: Poor quality sun-dried tomatoes can dull the dish’s overall taste. Opt for high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for maximum flavor.
• Not letting the sauce thicken: Rushing through the sauce preparation can result in a runny consistency. Allow it to simmer until it reaches your desired thickness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or cream until warmed through.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy dish featuring tender chicken, penne pasta, and a flavorful sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce. It’s known for its rich taste that’s perfect for impressing loved ones.

Can I customize Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for different flavors and textures.

How long does it take to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

The total time required is about 30 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it a quick meal option.

What sides pair well with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Garlic bread or a fresh green salad complements this dish beautifully, enhancing its rich flavors without overpowering them.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or side dishes. This rich recipe is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on a cozy night in. Don’t hesitate to try it out!

---