Why Make This Recipe
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with creamy sauce and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a fantastic meal for date nights, gatherings with friends, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something special. The creamy texture and rich flavors make it hard to resist, and it might even inspire a romantic surprise!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Directions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the pan. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens.
- Slice the chicken and return to the pan, stirring to coat in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and mix well.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta hot, with extra Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top if desired. A side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully to complete your meal. This dish can be a lovely centerpiece for a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal.
How to Store Marry Me Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Tips to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- For more flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer taste and better melting.
- Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Variation
You can switch the chicken for shrimp or a plant-based protein to cater to different dietary preferences while keeping the same creamy sauce and sun-dried tomato flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta.
2. Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
You can reduce the amount of cream and cheese, or substitute with a lighter version. Adding more vegetables can also boost its nutritional value.
3. Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Use freshly grated for better flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- to taste Salt and pepper
- as needed Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the pan. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens.
- Slice the chicken and return to the pan, stirring to coat in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and mix well.
Serving
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil.