Description
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s a love story served on a plate. This delightful dish, with its creamy tomato sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, is rumored to be so good that it inspires proposals! Whether you’re making it for date night, a cozy family dinner, or just to treat yourself, this recipe has all the makings of a meal that will win hearts and taste buds alike.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for the Recipe
To make Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that work together to create magic. Let’s break them down:
- Chicken: The star of the show! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish. They cook quickly and stay tender when simmered in the sauce. Don’t skimp on seasoning—salt, pepper, and Italian herbs are your go-to here.
- Pasta: Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti works best. These shapes hold the sauce beautifully, giving every bite a perfect balance of flavors. Al dente is the goal for texture that complements the creamy sauce.
- Cream and Cheese: Heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan cheese create the rich, velvety base for the sauce. Parmesan adds depth and a slightly nutty flavor that ties everything together.
Key Enhancers
What takes this dish from good to unforgettable are the key flavor boosters:
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These little gems add a burst of tangy sweetness, perfectly balancing the creaminess of the sauce. They’re the secret ingredient that gives Marry Me Chicken Pasta its signature taste.
- Italian Herbs and Seasoning: A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme enhances the flavors of the dish. A touch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick for those who enjoy a little heat.
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite Italian herbs. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then sear the chicken until it’s golden brown on both sides. This not only locks in the juices but also builds flavor through caramelization. Once cooked, set the chicken aside and cover it to keep it warm.
Making the Creamy Tomato Sauce
Here’s where the magic happens! Using the same skillet, sauté garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes until fragrant. Add sun-dried tomatoes and let them sizzle for a minute to release their oils. Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir in grated parmesan cheese. Watch as the sauce transforms into a luscious, creamy base. Don’t forget to taste and adjust with salt or pepper as needed.
For extra flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth or white wine before adding the cream. This picks up all those flavorful bits left from searing the chicken!
Cooking Pasta to Perfection
While your sauce simmers, cook the pasta in salted boiling water. Follow the package instructions for an al dente texture, as this helps the pasta absorb the sauce. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid is a lifesaver for adjusting the sauce’s consistency.
Combining It All
Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss it back into the skillet with the sauce. Add the drained pasta and stir until everything is well coated. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a bit of that reserved pasta water. Finish with a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh basil for garnish.
- Category: dinner