Name: Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Red pepper flakes, to taste; 8 ounces penne pasta; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish; Additional Parmesan cheese, for garnish

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Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, a luscious cream sauce, and flavorful pasta, making it perfect for date nights or family gatherings. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but is also simple enough for home cooks of all levels to recreate. With a blend of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs, every bite of this pasta dish feels special and indulgent.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 590
Protein: 34g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 675mg

Why Make This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a standout option for any occasion. The creamy sauce envelops the penne pasta, creating a comforting dish that’s genuinely satisfying. Plus, the sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet and tangy contrast to the rich cream and savory chicken, ensuring every forkful is bursting with taste. Whether you’re trying to impress a partner or just want something delicious for dinner, this dish hits the mark!

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Preparation

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance their flavor. This foundational step ensures the chicken emits a delightful aroma while cooking, setting the tone for the entire dish.

Step 2: Searing the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5–6 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing to retain its juices.

Step 3: Sautéing the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and slightly golden, ensuring that its flavor infuses the dish beautifully.

Step 4: Creating the Sauce

Add chicken broth to the skillet to deglaze the pan, scraping up the brown bits from the bottom. This adds depth of flavor to your sauce. Next, stir in creamy heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Allow the mixture to simmer for 4–5 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.

Step 5: Cooking the Pasta

Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Be sure to drain the pasta properly to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Step 6: Tossing Together

Toss the cooked penne pasta into the sauce until fully coated. This step ensures that every piece of pasta is enveloped in the creamy goodness, making it utterly irresistible.

Step 7: Serving with Style

Finally, add the sliced chicken on top of the pasta and spoon extra sauce over it. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of elegance and flavor.

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Serve this dish warm, perhaps with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. The creamy pasta pairs beautifully with a glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea. It’s perfect for romantic dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

How to Store Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its creamy texture.

Expert Tips for Perfect Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To keep the sauce creamy, avoid boiling it too hard once the cream is added.
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in Italian dressing for a couple of hours before cooking.
If you prefer a healthier version, you can substitute half-and-half or milk for cream, or use whole grain pasta for an extra fiber boost.
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes depending on your spice preference.

Delicious Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, and use vegetable broth.
Add Proteins: Incorporate shrimp or diced bacon for additional flavor and texture.
Different Pastas: Swap penne for fettuccine, spaghetti, or even spiralized zucchini for a low-carb option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but ensure to fully thaw it before seasoning and cooking.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? Half-and-half or a mixture of milk and sour cream works well.
Is this dish good for meal prep? Absolutely! Just keep the pasta and sauce separate until ready to eat to maintain the best texture.
Can I make this dairy-free? Yes, use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
How spicy is this dish? The red pepper flakes are optional, so you can adjust them based on your taste preferences.

Conclusion

Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dish that delights with every bite, offering rich flavors and a satisfying texture. It’s perfect for dinner parties, date nights, or even midweek meals when you want something special without too much fuss. Try this recipe today and experience the delicious comfort of a meal that just might make someone fall in love with your cooking!