When it comes to comfort food that’s both decadent and easy to make, nothing beats Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This dish is a rich, creamy, and savory blend of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan cheese, and fresh spinach enveloped in a luxurious sauce, served over perfectly cooked penne pasta. The name “Marry Me Chicken” comes from the idea that this dish is so delicious it could inspire a marriage proposal! Whether you’re cooking for a romantic dinner, a family meal, or a dinner party, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
- Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan creates a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Creamy and Comforting: The heavy cream and chicken broth create a luscious, velvety sauce that coats every bite.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level, swap out ingredients, or add your favorite veggies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Marry Me Chicken Pasta, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
Step-By-Step Directions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir to coat everything evenly.
- Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish the pasta with chopped fresh basil or parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Use High-Quality Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan melts better and gives a richer flavor than pre-shredded versions.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly firm pasta holds up better in the creamy sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep it juicy by cooking until just done and letting it rest before adding it back to the sauce.
- Customize Your Dish: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or even bacon for an extra layer of flavor.
- Want a Lighter Version? Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use whole wheat pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Yes! While penne pasta works great, you can use fettuccine, rigatoni, or even spaghetti.
2. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
3. Can I Make It Spicier?
Absolutely! Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
4. What Can I Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
This dish pairs well with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
5. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work just as well and add a bit more richness.
6. Can I Freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop with additional cream or broth to prevent dryness.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dish that lives up to its name. With its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and bold flavors, it’s a meal that will have everyone at the table falling in love. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner for your loved one or simply craving an indulgent pasta dish, this recipe will never disappoint. Try it tonight, and get ready for a meal that just might inspire a proposal!