Name: Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Olive oil; Unsalted butter; Chicken broth; Heavy cream; Grated Parmesan cheese; Sun-dried tomatoes; Garlic; Italian seasoning; Red pepper flakes; Pasta (fettuccine, penne, spaghetti); Fresh basil leaves; Additional grated Parmesan cheese

Are you ready to win over hearts with a single dish? Look no further than this irresistible Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe! Bursting with flavors, this creamy delight is bound to make you fall head over heels. Let’s dive into the details of this culinary romance.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

the Sauce:

1/2 cup chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

8 ounces pasta (such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Additional grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Directions:

the Chicken:

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

the Sauce:

In the same skillet, add the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

For the Pasta:

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Assembly:

Slice the cooked chicken breasts and lay them over the cooked pasta.
Pour the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce over the chicken and pasta.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Serving Tips:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Enhance the presentation of your Marry Me Chicken Pasta by sprinkling freshly chopped basil or parsley on top. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also brings a burst of freshness to each bite.
Pair with Garlic Bread: Serve your pasta alongside warm, crusty garlic bread to complete the meal. The garlic-infused bread perfectly complements the creamy sauce and savory chicken, creating a harmonious dining experience.
Add a Side Salad: Balance the richness of the dish with a light side salad. A simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing or a tangy Caesar salad can provide a refreshing contrast and additional nutritional value.

Serve with Wine: Elevate the dining experience by pairing your Marry Me Chicken Pasta with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. The wine’s acidity and fruity notes will complement the creamy sauce and enhance the overall flavor profile.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. Properly stored, it can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to extend the shelf life of your pasta, consider freezing it. Place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy your leftover pasta, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce’s consistency.
Refresh with Fresh Ingredients: Before serving reheated leftovers, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few additional basil leaves to rejuvenate the flavors and appearance.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Marry Me Chicken Pasta remains a delightful culinary experience from the first bite to the last. Enjoy!

Related rcipes:

FAQs:

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe suggests fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti, feel free to get creative with your pasta choices. Rotini, rigatoni, or even gnocchi can work wonderfully with the creamy sauce and chicken. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time for a dinner party?

Yes, you can prepare components of this dish in advance to streamline your dinner party prep. You can cook the chicken breasts and make the sauce a day ahead, then refrigerate them separately. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop while cooking the pasta fresh. Slice the chicken and assemble everything just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Certainly! While the original recipe features chicken and heavy cream, you can easily adapt it to suit vegetarian or vegan diets. Substitute the chicken with tofu or seitan strips for a vegetarian version, and replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream sauce for a vegan alternative. Adjust the seasonings to taste, and you’ll have a delicious plant-based dish everyone can enjoy.

Can I adjust the spice level of the dish?

Absolutely! The recipe includes red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, but you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder dish, simply reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. On the other hand, if you like it spicy, feel free to add more flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to amp up the heat. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning accordingly before serving.

Conclusion:

With its succulent chicken, luscious sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a recipe that promises to enchant anyone who takes a bite. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or treating yourself to a gourmet experience, this dish is sure to leave a lasting impression. Try it today and get ready to hear those magical words: “Yes, I do!”