Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful and creamy dish that’s so delicious, it’s said to be proposal-worthy! This rich and flavorful pasta features tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious Parmesan cheese sauce, all tossed with penne pasta. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a special family meal, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to create this mouthwatering Marry Me Chicken Pasta step-by-step.
Ingredients
For the 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 pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the 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
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- Melt the Butter: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add the Flour: Sprinkle the flour into the skillet, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes.
- Add Chicken Broth and Cream: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and dried Italian seasoning. Continue to cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Add the cooked chicken and drained penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss until everything is well coated.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately. Enjoy this delicious Marry Me Chicken Pasta!
Cooking Notes
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for a juicier texture.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Make sure to drain the sun-dried tomatoes well to avoid excess oil in the sauce.
- Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and gives a smoother sauce compared to pre-grated cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta and chicken ahead of time. Combine everything just before serving and reheat gently to avoid overcooking the pasta.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish? A: Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers would make excellent additions to this pasta dish.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of Marry Me Chicken Pasta, follow these modifications:
- Pasta: Replace the penne pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
- Flour: Use almond flour or coconut flour for the sauce instead of all-purpose flour.
- Broth and Cream: Ensure the chicken broth and heavy cream are low in carbs.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any special occasion or a cozy night in. With tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy Parmesan sauce, this pasta is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, homemade meal that’s sure to impress!
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