As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a meal that feels special yet doesn’t take hours to prepare. That’s where my Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe comes in! This dish is a delightful blend of tender chicken, creamy parmesan sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes, making it perfect for a romantic dinner or a cozy weeknight meal. It’s quick, comforting, and sure to impress your loved ones. Trust me, once you serve this, they might just want to pop the question!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich, creamy parmesan sauce that feels indulgent yet comforting.
- Versatile enough for a romantic dinner or a family meal.
- Uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
- Deliciously satisfying, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe that combines tender chicken, creamy parmesan sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes, perfect for a romantic dinner.
Ingredients
- 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
- 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
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Additional parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and cook for another minute, then gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream until smooth.
- Add the grated parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the sauce thickens.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well to coat with the sauce.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and additional parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe, romantic dinner recipe, easy date night meal, parmesan cream sauce pasta, comforting chicken dinner, weeknight pasta recipe
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe shine. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender and juicy, they form the heart of this dish.
- Penne pasta: This shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully, but feel free to swap it for your favorite pasta.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the flavors of the chicken and sauce.
- Olive oil: A healthy fat for sautéing the chicken, adding a lovely depth of flavor.
- Butter: For richness in the sauce, it creates a velvety texture.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds a fragrant kick that elevates the dish.
- All-purpose flour: This helps thicken the sauce, giving it that creamy consistency.
- Chicken broth: A flavorful base for the sauce, adding depth and moisture.
- Heavy cream: The star of the show, it makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
- Grated parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty flavor that complements the creaminess.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: These little gems bring a burst of tangy sweetness to the dish.
- Paprika: A hint of smokiness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds an aromatic touch.
- Fresh basil: For garnish, it adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Additional parmesan cheese: Optional, but who doesn’t love more cheese?
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to get creative with your ingredients; after all, cooking is all about making it your own!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Remember, you want it slightly firm since it will cook a bit more when mixed with the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. This step is crucial for a comforting chicken dinner that’s packed with flavor!
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the flour and cook for another minute. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth. This creamy sauce is what makes this dish so special! Add the grated parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the sauce thickens, creating that rich, velvety texture.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it well with the creamy sauce. Then, add the cooked penne pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. This is where the magic happens! The pasta absorbs all those delicious flavors, making it an easy date night meal that feels gourmet.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Now it’s time to serve! Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil and additional parmesan cheese if desired. This final touch not only adds flavor but also makes your dish look stunning. Your loved ones will be impressed, and you’ll feel like a culinary superstar!
Tips for Success
- Prep all ingredients before starting to save time and reduce stress.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.
- Feel free to customize the sauce with your favorite veggies like spinach or mushrooms.
- For extra flavor, let the sauce simmer a bit longer.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving for the best results.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: For boiling the penne pasta. A Dutch oven works well too.
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for sautéing the chicken and making the sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and mixing everything together.
- Colander: For draining the pasta after cooking.
Variations To Try
- Vegetable Medley: Add sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a nutritious boost.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free penne pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for a fragrant twist.
- Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein source.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side for a delightful crunch.
- Green Salad: A fresh mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, enhances the flavors beautifully.
- Presentation: Serve in shallow bowls, garnished with extra parmesan and fresh basil for a restaurant-style look.
FAQs
Can I make this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead and reheated before serving. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, gently reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
What can I serve with this easy date night meal?
Pair this comforting chicken dinner with garlic bread and a fresh green salad. A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the creamy parmesan sauce beautifully, making your dinner feel extra special.
Can I use different pasta shapes for this recipe?
Of course! While penne is perfect for holding the sauce, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti would work well. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! Simply swap the penne pasta for a gluten-free variety. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it an easy option for those with dietary restrictions.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste. This will give your Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe a delightful kick!
Final Thoughts
Cooking is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories and sharing love through food. My Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a perfect example of that. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight yet elegant enough to impress on a special occasion. The creamy parmesan sauce wraps around the tender chicken and pasta, making every bite a comforting hug. I hope this dish brings joy to your table and sparks delightful moments with your loved ones. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some delicious memories together!