When I found the Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe, I was curious. The name made me think of romantic dinners. I surprised my partner with it one evening.
The table was set, candles lit. The kitchen smelled of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil.
As we ate, I felt excited. One bite showed in their eyes—it was special. The flavors were perfect, mixing comfort and class. It felt like the dish was saying, “I could win your heart.”
From then on, it was our favorite for date nights. Each bite reminded us of our love.
Introduction to Marry Me Chicken Pasta
I love the marry me chicken pasta recipe a lot. It comes from the famous Marry Me Chicken. This dish is great for romantic dinners because it’s quick and tasty.
The mix of tender pasta, juicy chicken, and creamy sauce is amazing. It’s perfect for any time, whether it’s a special dinner or a simple weeknight meal.
This recipe is easy and ready in about 45 minutes. It needs just a few ingredients, so I can make it fast. It’s the ultimate comfort food, bringing everyone together for a cozy meal.
What is Marry Me Chicken?
Marry Me Chicken is a tasty dish that makes meals special. It has a creamy garlic sauce and sun-dried tomatoes. People love it so much, it might even lead to a marriage proposal.
The dish uses tender chicken breasts in a rich sauce. The sauce is made from cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. It’s perfect with pasta, making it great for a romantic dinner.
Many people like making this recipe because it’s easy. It turns simple ingredients into something fancy. The mix of herbs, cream, and sun-dried tomatoes makes every bite delicious. It’s a favorite for date nights and special times.
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Recipe
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is super easy to make. It takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a surprise date night.
The creamy tomato sauce makes the chicken tender and tasty. It’s both comforting and indulgent. You’ll love every bite.
Only two pans are needed for this recipe. One for boiling pasta and another for the sauce. This makes cleaning up easy.
The creamy sauce comes from double cream and tasty ingredients. Sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan, and garlic add rich flavors. Each bite is warm and full of taste.
This stovetop chicken pasta is not just filling. It’s also versatile. It’s great for any occasion or family dinner.
The leftovers are just as tasty. But, I like to eat it fresh for the best texture. This recipe will be a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Making creamy chicken pasta is all about mixing flavors and textures. Here are the key ingredients for a dish that’s both tasty and cozy. We’ll cover the chicken, pasta, and the sauce’s main parts!
Chicken and Pasta Essentials
- 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 10 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Key Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ⅓ cup low-sodium chicken stock
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
These ingredients come together to make a delicious meal. Get ready to make a dish that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making Marry Me Chicken Pasta is easy and fun. It’s great for a quick meal. You’ll need pasta, chicken, and creamy sauce, all in one pot. Follow these steps for a tasty dish in under 30 minutes.
Cooking the Penne Pasta
First, boil water and add lots of salt. When it boils, add 10 ounces of penne pasta. Cook until it’s al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Save 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining the rest.
Preparing the Chicken
While pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a big skillet. Season 2 chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken in the skillet for 5 minutes, until it’s golden and cooked through. Make sure it’s 165 degrees Fahrenheit inside. Then, take the chicken out and set it aside.
Making the Creamy Sauce
Use the same skillet for the sauce. Melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Then, sauté 2 teaspoons of garlic for 1-2 minutes. Add 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of Parmigiano-Reggiano, 1 cup of sun-dried tomatoes, and some seasonings. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens. Add the chicken back in, then mix in the pasta and pasta water if needed.
This one pot pasta is rich and comforting. For a nice touch, add more Parmigiano-Reggiano and fresh basil. Enjoy your meal!
Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Making Marry Me Chicken Pasta is all about the details. I have some tips to make your dish better. Start with fresh ingredients. Fresh garlic and basil make a big difference in taste and smell.
Using Fresh Ingredients
Fresh ingredients are key for great Marry Me Chicken. Choose the best chicken, tomatoes, and herbs. This makes every bite full of flavor.
- 1 pound of chicken breast
- 3-4 cloves of fresh garlic, minced
- ½ cup of fresh basil, chopped
Fresh garlic and herbs add flavor and nutrients. They make your meal healthier!
Adjusting Flavor and Texture
Getting the flavor and texture right is important. Use salt and pepper to taste. Make sure the chicken is 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safety and taste.
Try adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Save some pasta water to mix with the sauce. This helps the sauce stick to the pasta.
| Nutritional Value | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 463 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 37 g |
| Protein | 27 g |
| Total Fat | 24 g |
| Saturated Fat | 13 g |
| Cholesterol | 104 mg |
Serving Suggestions for a Romantic Dinner
When planning a romantic dinner, make your Marry Me Chicken Pasta look great. Pair it with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a full meal. This mix of flavors will make your dinner unforgettable.
Use candlelight and soft music to set the mood. These small details can make your dinner special. Serve it in fancy bowls with fresh basil and parmesan cheese for a luxurious touch.
Try adding Buttery Asparagus Tips or a citrusy salad. They go well with the creamy tomato sauce. For wine, a Crisp Chardonnay or Light-bodied Pinot Noir is perfect.
- Garnish with extra freshly chopped basil for added color.
- Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread for dipping.
- Pair with a light salad featuring mixed greens and citrus.
- Offer a choice of wines to complement the creamy tomato sauce.
- Present in elegant dishware, highlighting the dish’s colors and textures.
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta makes your evening special. With simple ideas and great pairings, your dinner will be unforgettable.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
After enjoying a delicious meal of Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you might find yourself with some delectable leftovers. Storing leftovers properly ensures that you can savor this comforting dish again without losing any of its flavors. I recommend placing any remaining pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can stay fresh for up to five days.
When it comes to reheating your leftovers, there are a couple of effective methods to maintain that creamy goodness. For stovetop reheating, gently warm the pasta on medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep it moist and creamy. Or, you can bake your leftovers in a shallow dish covered with foil at 350°F (about 175°C) for around 20 minutes. This method allows the flavors to mingle and gives a lovely warmth without drying out the dish.
Here’s a quick overview of my preferred methods:
| Method | Instructions | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Stovetop | Heat on medium-low, adding a splash of cream or broth. | Great for maintaining moisture. |
| Oven | Bake at 350°F covered with foil for 20 minutes. | Ideal for larger portions. |
Using these reheating tips, you can enjoy your left over Marry Me Chicken Pasta as if it were freshly made. This comfort food recipe can bring joy to your next meal. With just a little effort, leftovers can become the highlight of another day!
Variations on the Classic Recipe
Trying new things with pasta recipes can be fun. You can use different pasta like rotini or rigatoni. Or, try zoodles for a low-carb option that’s tasty.
Want to change things up? Try using turkey instead of chicken. It tastes great with the creamy sauce. Shrimp is also a good choice, adding a fancy touch.
Don’t let dietary needs stop you from cooking. For those who can’t have lactose, use lactose-free cream. Vegans can use plant-based chicken and vegan cream. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish.
Choosing any variation, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a great base. It lets you create dishes that everyone will love.
Why This Dish is Perfect for Date Night
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a great choice for a date night. It has rich flavors and looks beautiful. Serving it with creamy pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach makes it perfect for a romantic dinner.
This recipe is quick and easy, ready in just 30 minutes. It uses healthy ingredients like chickpea pasta and coconut milk. Plus, it’s made in one pot, so cleaning up is easy.
This dish is not just tasty but also creates special moments. It’s great for any occasion, whether it’s a big celebration or a quiet night. So, try Marry Me Chicken Pasta and make your evening memorable.
