“Marry Me Chicken Pasta” is a dish so delicious that it’s said to be proposal-worthy. This creamy, flavorful pasta combines tender chicken with a rich, sun-dried tomato cream sauce, making it an irresistible dinner option that’s perfect for date night or any special occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 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
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Add the Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. If you like a little spice, add the red pepper flakes at this point.
- Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine and Serve: Slice the cooked chicken and add it back to the skillet with the sauce. Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until well coated. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese make a big difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed in the hot sauce.
- Adjust the Spice Level: The red pepper flakes add a nice kick, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Variations
- Add Spinach: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach to the sauce for added color and nutrition.
- Mushroom Addition: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
Conclusion
“Marry Me Chicken Pasta” is a dish that lives up to its name, offering a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors that are sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a gourmet meal at home, this recipe is a must-try. Pair it with a crisp white wine and a side salad for a complete, memorable meal.