How to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta step-by-step
Ever wonder about a dish so delicious it could potentially win someone’s heart? The marry me chicken pasta recipe is exactly that magical culinary creation. This easy marry me chicken recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal that promises to impress even the most discerning dinner guest.
Picture this: tender chicken nestled in a creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Your kitchen will smell incredible, and your taste buds will dance with excitement. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or just treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite.
Table of Contents
What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Marry me chicken pasta is a delectable dish that has taken home cooking by storm. This irresistible chicken in pasta recipes combines creamy textures with bold flavors that will make anyone fall in love at first bite. The dish transforms the classic skillet-style marry me chicken into a mouthwatering pasta experience.
Origins of the Dish
The marry me chicken pasta emerged as a creative spin on the original skillet recipe. Culinary enthusiasts discovered that the incredible flavor profile could be perfectly adapted to a pasta-based meal. This innovative approach allows home cooks to enjoy the same delicious combination of ingredients in a new, exciting format.
Why It’s Called “Marry Me” Chicken
The name comes from the dish’s legendary ability to win hearts through its incredible taste. Legend has it that the recipe is so delicious, it could potentially inspire a marriage proposal. The combination of creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly cooked chicken creates a flavor so compelling that it might just make someone say “I do!”
Key Ingredients Overview
- Boneless chicken breasts or thighs
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Garlic
- Parmesan cheese
- Heavy cream
- Fresh herbs (basil)
Nutritional highlights of this crowd-pleasing dish include:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 667 kcal |
| Protein | 31 g |
| Total Fat | 35 g |
Whether you’re looking to impress a date or simply enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home, marry me chicken pasta promises a culinary experience that’s both comforting and exciting.
Essential Ingredients and Kitchen Tools
Creating the perfect chicken and pasta dishes requires careful selection of ingredients and the right kitchen tools. Your Marry Me Chicken Pasta will come to life with a carefully curated collection of fresh and flavorful components.
Key Ingredients
- Protein: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Pasta: 12 ounces of pasta (regular or gluten-free)
- Sauce Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups diced onion
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- Seasonings:
- 1.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Sauce Enhancers:
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- Finishing Touches:
- 1.5 cups freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 4 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 cup fresh basil (optional)
Essential Kitchen Tools
To transform these ingredients into a delectable chicken and pasta dish, you’ll need some specific kitchen equipment:
- Cast iron skillet (Le Creuset or Lodge recommended)
- Garlic press
- Microplane grater for parmesan cheese
- Large pasta pot
- Sharp kitchen knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
With these ingredients and tools, you’re ready to create a mouthwatering Marry Me Chicken Pasta that will impress any dinner guest!
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Get ready to create a restaurant-worthy marry me chicken pasta recipe that will impress everyone at your dinner table. This delightful chicken in pasta recipes combines creamy sauce, tender chicken, and bold flavors that make it truly irresistible.
Ingredient Measurements and Preparations
Before diving into cooking, gather your ingredients carefully. You’ll need:
- 16 oz dried pasta (campanelle or short cut)
- 1-1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil)
- 5 cloves minced garlic
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 handful baby spinach leaves
Sauce Making Techniques
Creating the perfect sauce is crucial for your marry me chicken pasta recipe. Start by melting butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Sprinkle flour and whisk continuously to create a smooth roux.
Gradually pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add sun-dried tomatoes and your selected seasonings. The key is to simmer the sauce until it reaches a rich, creamy consistency.
Cooking Time and Temperature Guidelines
For the chicken, cook at medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. When preparing pasta, cook 2-3 minutes less than package instructions to ensure al dente texture.
Combine your perfectly cooked chicken with the creamy sauce and pasta. Sprinkle fresh Parmesan and a handful of spinach for added flavor and nutrition. Your marry me chicken pasta is ready to serve!
Pro tip: Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together perfectly.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
Creating the perfect creamy sun-dried tomato sauce for your marry me chicken pasta recipe requires some expert techniques. The key to an irresistible sauce lies in choosing the right ingredients and mastering a few critical cooking methods.
When preparing chicken and pasta dishes like this, heavy cream is your secret weapon. It prevents curdling and creates a luxurious, smooth texture that will make your sauce absolutely divine. Lower-fat alternatives might separate or become grainy, so stick with full-fat heavy cream.
- Chop sun-dried tomatoes into small pieces if you’re texture-sensitive
- Use low heat when incorporating cream to prevent breaking
- Reserved pasta water can help adjust sauce consistency
- Simmer sauce gently to develop rich flavors
Seasoning is crucial for elevating your sauce. Fresh garlic, Italian seasoning, and a splash of white wine can transform an ordinary sauce into something extraordinary.
“The difference between good and great is often in the details”
– and that’s especially true when crafting the perfect pasta sauce.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with thickness. If your sauce is too runny, let it simmer for a little longer. If it’s too thick, add a small amount of reserved pasta cooking water to achieve the ideal consistency.
Remember, practice makes perfect. Each time you make this recipe, you’ll become more confident in creating a restaurant-quality creamy sun-dried tomato sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Conclusion
This marry me chicken pasta recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary experience that brings people together. With just 30 minutes of preparation time, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that will impress family and friends. The marry me chicken pasta recipe combines simple ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, creamy parmesan sauce, and perfectly seasoned chicken to deliver an unforgettable dining experience.
Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe offers versatility and flavor in every bite. The combination of herbs, spices, and rich cream sauce creates a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. You can easily customize the recipe by substituting pasta types or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste preferences.
Ready to fall in love with cooking? Give this marry me chicken pasta recipe a try and discover why home cooks are raving about this delightful dish. Don’t forget to experiment with wine pairings like Chianti or Sauvignon Blanc to elevate your dining experience. Share your results with friends and family—this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
We invite you to make this recipe your own and create delicious memories around the dinner table. Bon appétit!
FAQ
What makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta so special?
The dish is renowned for its incredibly creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, packed with garlic, parmesan, and a rich flavor that’s so delicious it’s said to be capable of inspiring marriage proposals. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta creates an irresistible meal that’s both easy to prepare and impressive to serve.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for marry me chicken pasta recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut that can save you time without compromising the dish’s flavor. Simply shred or chop the rotisserie chicken and add it to the sauce, making the recipe even more quick and easy to prepare.
How much time does it take to prepare Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
The entire recipe typically takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish, with most of that time dedicated to preparing the sauce and cooking the pasta. The actual cooking process is relatively quick, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or gluten-free?
Yes, you can modify the recipe to fit dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan. For gluten-free, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
What are the best pasta types for marry me chicken pasta recipe?
While the recipe works well with various pasta types, penne, fettuccine, and linguine are particularly recommended. These pasta shapes are excellent at holding onto the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, ensuring you get maximum flavor in every bite.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
While you can freeze the dish, the creamy sauce might slightly separate upon thawing. If you do freeze it, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently, adding additional cream or broth to help restore the sauce’s texture.
What side dishes pair well with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
This pasta pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides such as garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple mixed green salad. The creamy, rich sauce of the pasta is complemented by lighter, crispier side dishes that provide a nice contrast.