Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce. It is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. With just the right balance of creaminess, garlic, and Italian herbs, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Full of flavor – The combination of parmesan, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a bold, creamy sauce.
• Quick & easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable – Easily adjust ingredients to suit dietary needs or preferences.

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Pasta:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 10 ounces penne pasta
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black 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 grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Boil a large pot of salted water.
2. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

4. Season chicken breast pieces with salt and black pepper.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked.
7. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

8. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
9. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
10. Stir in flour, cooking for 1 minute to form a roux.
11. Slowly whisk in chicken broth, ensuring a smooth consistency.
12. Add heavy cream and parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted.
13. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
14. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.

4. Combine & Serve

15. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat.
16. Add the cooked pasta, mixing until fully combined.
17. Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese.
18. Serve immediately.

Best Side Dishes to Serve

• Garlic Bread – Complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Caesar Salad – Adds freshness and crunch.
• Roasted Green Beans – A simple yet flavorful vegetable side.
• Steamed Broccoli – A healthy option that pairs well with the pasta.
• Sautéed Mushrooms – Adds an earthy depth of flavor.
• Honey Glazed Carrots – A sweet contrast to the savory dish.
• Lemon Parmesan Asparagus – Brings a fresh, zesty balance.
• White Wine – A crisp Chardonnay enhances the flavors.

Common Mistakes & Tips

• Overcooking pasta – Cook to al dente for the best texture.
• Using pre-shredded parmesan – Freshly grated melts better and blends smoothly.
• Skipping the roux – The flour step helps thicken the sauce.
• Not draining sun-dried tomatoes – Excess oil can make the sauce greasy.
• Not seasoning properly – Taste before serving and adjust if needed.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta

A rich and creamy pasta dish like Marry Me Chicken Pasta pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Whether you prefer something light and refreshing or indulgent and hearty, the right side can elevate your meal.

1. Garlic Bread

A classic side for any pasta dish, garlic bread provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy sauce. A toasted baguette brushed with butter, garlic, and parsley is a simple yet flavorful addition.

2. Caesar Salad

The crisp texture of romaine lettuce combined with a creamy dressing and parmesan shavings balances the richness of the pasta. Adding homemade croutons enhances the crunch and makes for a satisfying bite.

3. Roasted Green Beans

For a lighter side, roasted green beans add a slightly charred, smoky flavor. Tossing them with olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of parmesan before roasting brings out their natural sweetness.

4. Steamed Broccoli

This nutrient-dense vegetable pairs well with creamy dishes. Lightly steaming broccoli keeps it fresh and crisp while adding a mild flavor that complements the pasta sauce without overpowering it.

5. Sautéed Mushrooms

Mushrooms add an earthy depth of flavor that works well with the parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes in the pasta. Cooking them with butter, garlic, and a splash of white wine enhances their natural umami taste.

6. Honey Glazed Carrots

For a touch of sweetness, honey-glazed carrots provide a nice contrast to the savory, creamy pasta. Roasting them with a mix of honey, butter, and a dash of salt brings out their natural caramelization.

7. Lemon Parmesan Asparagus

Asparagus with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of parmesan offers a bright, citrusy contrast to the richness of the dish. Roasting or grilling them ensures a tender yet slightly crisp texture.

8. White Wine

A crisp, dry white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors of the dish. The acidity in the wine cuts through the richness of the sauce, creating a well-balanced meal.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid & Recipe Tips

Even a simple recipe can have small pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them for a flawless Marry Me Chicken Pasta every time.

1. Overcooking the Pasta

Pasta should always be cooked al dente to maintain the best texture. Overcooking it can result in a mushy consistency, especially once it’s mixed with the sauce. To prevent this, cook the pasta one minute less than the package instructions suggest.

2. Using Pre-Shredded Parmesan Cheese

Freshly grated parmesan cheese melts better and provides a smoother sauce. Pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.

3. Skipping the Roux (Flour Step)

The butter and flour mixture (roux) is key to thickening the sauce. Skipping this step may result in a thinner, less creamy consistency. To ensure a smooth sauce, cook the flour for about one minute before adding the liquids.

4. Not Draining Sun-Dried Tomatoes Properly

Sun-dried tomatoes often come packed in oil. If they are added directly from the jar without draining, the extra oil can make the sauce greasy. After draining, lightly pat them with a paper towel before chopping and adding them to the sauce.

5. Not Seasoning Properly

Salt and pepper should be adjusted to taste at the end of cooking. The parmesan cheese adds saltiness, so it’s best to taste the sauce before adding extra salt.

6. Cooking Chicken on Too High Heat

Cooking the chicken over too high heat can cause it to dry out quickly. For juicy, tender pieces, cook the chicken over medium-high heat, ensuring it’s cooked through without becoming tough.

7. Letting the Sauce Sit Too Long Before Serving

As the sauce cools, it will continue to thicken. If the pasta sits for too long before serving, it may become too thick. To fix this, stir in a small amount of warm chicken broth or cream just before serving to restore the creamy texture.

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How to Perfect the Recipe

1. Add a Spicy Kick

If you enjoy a little heat, add ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce. This will enhance the flavors without overpowering the creamy texture.

2. Experiment with Pasta Shapes

While penne pasta works great, you can also use fettuccine, rigatoni, or farfalle. Different pasta shapes hold the sauce differently, so try a few variations to see what you prefer.

3. Use Fresh Basil for Garnish

Fresh basil adds a bright, herbal contrast to the creamy sauce. Chopping it just before serving preserves its aroma and flavor.

4. Try a Protein Swap

If you want to change things up, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, salmon, or even grilled tofu for a different take on the dish.

5. Make It Lighter

For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or use a mixture of milk and a bit of cornstarch to thicken the sauce. While this will result in a slightly less creamy texture, it still delivers great flavor.

6. Make It Gluten-Free

If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and swap the flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch. This ensures the dish remains thick and creamy without the use of wheat flour.

7. Enhance the Flavor with Wine

For a more complex sauce, deglaze the pan with ¼ cup of white wine before adding the broth and cream. This adds depth and a subtle tangy note to the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

Proper storage ensures that the flavors and textures of Marry Me Chicken Pasta remain intact for the next meal. Follow these guidelines for the best results:

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Avoid leaving the pasta at room temperature for more than two hours, as dairy-based sauces can spoil quickly.

Freezing Instructions

This dish can be frozen, but creamy sauces tend to change texture when thawed. If freezing:

• Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• To prevent separation, consider freezing the pasta and sauce separately for better consistency upon reheating.

Reheating Instructions

The key to reheating creamy pasta is to restore moisture and prevent it from drying out.

Stovetop Method (Best Option)

• Heat a skillet over low heat and add a splash of chicken broth, milk, or cream.
• Add the leftover pasta and stir gently until warmed through.
• Avoid overheating, as the sauce can separate.

Microwave Method

• Place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish.
• Add a small amount of liquid (milk or broth) to loosen the sauce.
• Cover and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each round until heated.

Oven Method

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Transfer pasta to an oven-safe dish and add a few tablespoons of broth or cream.
• Cover with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

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FAQs: Answering Common Questions

1. Why is it called “Marry Me Chicken Pasta”?

The dish got its name because of its irresistible flavor—it is so delicious that it could inspire a marriage proposal. The combination of creamy parmesan sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and tender chicken makes it an unforgettable meal.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while penne is commonly used, you can substitute it with fettuccine, rigatoni, bowtie, or even spaghetti. Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well for the best results.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?

For more heat, try:

• Adding ¼ to ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Using spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken.
• Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra warmth.

4. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter version, substitute:

• Half-and-half for a lower-fat option.
• Whole milk with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, whisked in to help thicken the sauce.
• Coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative, though it will slightly alter the flavor.

5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes. To make this gluten-free:

• Use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta.
• Replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the sauce.

6. How can I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Curdling happens when dairy is overheated. To avoid this:

• Keep the heat on medium or low when adding cream.
• Stir continuously while adding the cream to prevent separation.
• If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of warm broth to loosen it.

7. What protein alternatives can I use instead of chicken?

This dish works well with:

• Shrimp – Sauté until pink and fully cooked before adding to the sauce.
• Salmon – Pan-sear or bake before flaking into the dish.
• Tofu – Use firm or extra-firm tofu, cubed and pan-fried.
• Mushrooms – For a vegetarian option, use meaty mushrooms like portobello or cremini.

8. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best results, store the pasta and sauce separately to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much sauce. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and combine with freshly cooked pasta.

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Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that can be enjoyed for a casual dinner or a special occasion. With its rich parmesan sauce, tender chicken, and sun-dried tomatoes, it delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 30 minutes.

By following the right storage and reheating methods, you can enjoy leftovers without sacrificing taste or texture. Whether you are serving it with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables, this dish is versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides.

With simple modifications, it can also be made spicy, gluten-free, or lighter, making it a customizable recipe that suits different dietary preferences. If you are looking for a dish that is both easy and impressive, this pasta is an excellent choice.