Indulge in the delightful and romantic dish known as Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This dish not only lives up to its enticing name but is also renowned for its rich, creamy texture and vibrant flavors that may just make someone pop the question! Whether you’re preparing a date-night dinner or a comforting family meal, this pasta recipe is bound to become a household favorite.
Overview of the Recipe
Marry Me Chicken Pasta combines tender, well-seasoned chicken pieces, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a luscious, creamy sauce filled with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan. Enhanced with Italian seasoning and garnished with fresh basil, each bite is a blend of savory and aromatic goodness. The simplicity of the preparation makes it ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks.
History and Origin
The origins of Marry Me Chicken trace back to recipes designed to impress dinner guests with a simple yet elegant meal. The name itself evokes a sense of romance and commitment, suggesting that the dish is so irresistible, it could inspire a marriage proposal. The recipe’s popularity has grown in recent years, embraced by food lovers for its ease of preparation and delectable flavors. With roots in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, it incorporates classic ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and parmesan, evoking a homely, comforting feel.
Ingredients
Chicken Pasta
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 10 ounces penne pasta
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Preparing the Chicken Pasta
- Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a pot of water and cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Season the Chicken: Cut the chicken into 1-inch bite-sized pieces and season evenly with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Set Aside: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and keep it aside for later.
Making the Sauce
- Melt the Butter: Using the same skillet, add 3 tablespoons of butter and let it melt over medium heat.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds or until it becomes fragrant.
- Create a Roux: Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of flour into the skillet and stir continuously to form a paste.
- Incorporate Liquids: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. Keep whisking to ensure a smooth, lump-free sauce.
- Add Parmesan and Seasonings: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and combined, followed by the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Taste and adjust with more salt and pepper if desired.
- Thicken the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens, stirring occasionally.
Final Assembly
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained penne pasta. Toss everything to coat the pasta and chicken evenly in the rich sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle additional parmesan cheese before serving.
Serving
Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta hot, straight from the skillet or on individual plates. This dish is perfect for both cozy dinners and special occasions, showcasing flavors that please any crowd.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a crisp Caesar salad or a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or warm, crusty Italian bread works wonders for soaking up the creamy sauce. For drinks, a glass of chilled sparkling water with a splash of citrus or a berry-infused lemonade would complement the flavors beautifully.
Variations of the Recipe
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a meatless version. Add a handful of spinach for added nutrients and flavor.
- Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or an unsweetened almond cream and use nutritional yeast in place of parmesan cheese.
- Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce for an extra kick of heat.
- Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken for turkey or beef strips to change up the flavor profile.
Health Benefits Notes
Marry Me Chicken Pasta offers nutritional benefits thanks to its use of lean chicken, which is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The sauce, though rich, includes healthy garlic that boasts antibacterial properties and sun-dried tomatoes that are packed with antioxidants. For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or whole wheat pasta to increase the fiber content.
FAQs
Can I Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and chicken ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, reheat and toss with the freshly made sauce for the best flavor and texture.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is the traditional choice, rotini, rigatoni, or farfalle can also be used, as they hold onto the sauce well.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
For a lighter version, try using half-and-half or a combination of milk and a cornstarch slurry to maintain a creamy texture without the extra fat.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a catchy name—it’s a flavorful, hearty dish perfect for impressing your loved ones or treating yourself. With its combination of tender chicken, rich, creamy sauce, and vibrant seasonings, it promises a truly memorable dining experience. Easy to customize and bursting with taste, this recipe will surely become a staple in your kitchen. Try it out and see if it doesn’t spark a few “marriage proposal-worthy” compliments!