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If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both irresistibly delicious and impressively elegant, look no further than Marry Me Chicken Pasta! This dish isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Creamy, savory, and bursting with flavor, it’s easy to see why this recipe has captured hearts and earned its romantic name. Whether you’re planning a cozy date night, a family dinner, or simply treating yourself, this pasta is guaranteed to be a showstopper.
So, why is it called Marry Me Chicken? Legend has it that this dish is so good it could inspire a proposal on the spot. One bite of the perfectly tender chicken, rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce, and al dente pasta, and you’ll understand why. The name came from a viral TikTok video showcasing a chicken recipe so good, it could inspire someone to pop the big question. And trust us, it really is that good.
Ready to fall in love with this recipe? Follow along as we dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations to help you create the perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. Trust us—it’s worth the hype!
Let’s dive in and show you how to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe—it might just win you a few hearts too!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
To create this irresistible Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts (or 4 small ones)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons pasta water (reserved after cooking)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare the perfect marry me chicken recipe with pasta:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 2 tablespoons of pasta water before draining.
3. Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth.
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Combine Everything:
- Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top.
- Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss to combine and coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce.
5. Serve:
- Plate the pasta and chicken. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips for make perfect marry me chicken pasta
- Sear the Chicken Well: Achieve a golden crust on your chicken for added flavor. Use medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding the skillet.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, Parmesan cheese, and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes elevate this dish.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a creamy consistency.
- Adjust Spice Level: Add or omit red pepper flakes based on your preference for heat.
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Side Dishes:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp, tangy salad balances the richness of the pasta.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or asparagus complements the dish.
Desserts:
- Tiramisu: A classic Italian dessert to end the meal on a sweet note.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Decadent and indulgent, it pairs wonderfully with this romantic dish.
Drinks:
- Wine Pairing: A glass of crisp Chardonnay or a medium-bodied Pinot Noir.
- Mocktails: A refreshing basil lemonade or sparkling water with lime.
Variations of Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Marry Me Chicken Pasta Crock Pot Version:
- Cook the chicken and sauce ingredients in a slow cooker for 4-6 hours on low. Add cooked pasta just before serving.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with roasted cauliflower or mushrooms.
- Seafood Twist: Swap the chicken for shrimp or scallops for a seafood-inspired variation.
FAQs
Why is it called Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
The name comes from its reputation as a dish so good, it might inspire a marriage proposal! Its romantic appeal makes it perfect for special occasions.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, but cook the pasta fresh for the best texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti are popular choices, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as rigatoni, linguine, or even gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?
Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a little cornstarch for a lighter option. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or cashew cream.
What is the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream, milk, or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally to prevent drying out.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes make excellent additions. Add them towards the end of cooking the sauce to keep their texture fresh.
Substitutes
- Chicken: Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and Parmesan.
- Gluten-Free: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta.
Nutrition
Per Serving (Approximate):
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
This How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe combines ease, elegance, and bold flavors. Perfect for a date night or a family dinner, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation. Try it today and see why it’s winning hearts everywhere!
Ingredients
To create this irresistible Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe, you'll need the following ingredients: For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts (or 4 small ones)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons pasta water (reserved after cooking)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare the perfect marry me chicken recipe with pasta:
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove and set aside.
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 2 tablespoons of pasta water before draining.
Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth.
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine Everything:
- Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top.
- Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss to combine and coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce.
Serve:
- Plate the pasta and chicken. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
Tips for make perfect marry me chicken pasta
- Sear the Chicken Well: Achieve a golden crust on your chicken for added flavor. Use medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding the skillet.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, Parmesan cheese, and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes elevate this dish.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a creamy consistency.
- Adjust Spice Level: Add or omit red pepper flakes based on your preference for heat.
