Name: Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken, 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 flour; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained; 1 teaspoon paprika; 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning; Fresh basil, for garnish

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich and creamy dish that combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese in a luscious sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a comforting meal that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Why I Love This Recipe

I adore this recipe because it brings together simple ingredients to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, coats the pasta and chicken beautifully, making every bite satisfying. It’s a versatile dish that can impress guests or provide comfort after a long day.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken, 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 flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
1 teaspoon paprika
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
Fresh basil for garnish

Directions

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the flour to create a paste. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
Add the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Simmer the sauce until it thickens.
Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat with the sauce.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6 people. The preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and the cooking time is about 20 minutes, totaling 30 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for some heat.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
Different Pasta: Use fettuccine, rigatoni, or your favorite pasta shape instead of penne.
Cheese Variations: Mix in mozzarella or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added aroma.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dish featuring chicken and pasta in a creamy sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese. It’s named for its rich flavor that’s said to be so good, it could inspire a marriage proposal.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, cook the pasta, reheat the sauce and chicken together, then combine with the pasta.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and opt for a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast to replace Parmesan.

What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.

Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the comfort of creamy pasta with the savory flavors of seasoned chicken and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a versatile recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation, perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.