Introduction to Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Well, then look no further than the incredible Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Hey there, world’s most multi-tasking supermom … I ‘get’ the never-ending juggling act of family needs and a passion for good food. Here’s the lifesaver; simple ingredients magically operate together in a hearty, creamy goodness that anyone would ask for more of. Whether you’re wining and dining a special someone or just trying to make dinner fun for your family, this is it! Comforting, satisfying, and guaranteed to bring joy back into your ‘what am I cooking tonight’ routine.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta isn’t just about taste—it’s about simplicity, too. In under an hour, you can whip up a dish that’s rich, indulgent, and totally satisfying. Imagine diving into the creamy goodness of chicken and pasta with just a sprinkle of sun-dried tomatoes to brighten your day. It’s convenient for busy nights and delightful for special occasions, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire!
Ingredients for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Before we dive into cooking this scrumptious Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta, let’s chat about the star players of this dish. Here’s what you’ll need to create this creamy goodness:
- Penne pasta: This tubular pasta is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce. You can use any pasta shape you love!
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs flavor beautifully. For a twist, try using shredded rotisserie chicken!
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth to your sauce. If you’re watching your sodium, unsalted is the way to go.
- Chicken broth: Enhances the flavor of the dish. Low-sodium broth is a healthier option.
- Heavy cream: This is the key to achieving that luscious, creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half.
- Grated parmesan cheese: A must-have for that cheesy, nutty flavor. Freshly grated will melt beautifully!
- Sun-dried tomatoes: They bring a pop of tartness and color. Feel free to use fresh tomatoes if you prefer a fresher taste.
- Minced garlic: Adds aromatic depth. Fresh garlic is wonderful, but jarred works too in a pinch!
- All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the sauce and create that creamy consistency.
- Paprika: This spice brings a hint of smokiness. If you’d like, you can use smoked paprika for added kick.
- Dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that delivers that Italian flair without any fuss.
- Salt & Black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the overall flavor!
- Olive oil: Perfect for sautéing the chicken and adds a touch of richness. You can use any cooking oil you prefer.
- Fresh basil leaves: Optional, but they bring a fresh, herbal note that’s simply delightful as a garnish.
- Additional grated parmesan cheese: For those who can’t resist an extra sprinkle of cheesy goodness!
For the exact quantities of each ingredient, you can check the bottom of the article where they’re listed, ready for printing!
How to Make Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delectable Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta! I promise you’ll feel like a gourmet chef with these simple steps.
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water over high heat. Once it’s rolling, add the penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—this usually takes around 10–12 minutes. You want it slightly firm because it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Don’t forget to save a cup of pasta water just in case you want to loosen up the sauce later!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, it’s time to give our chicken some love. Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 6–8 minutes on each side, until it’s golden and cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when the juices run clear. Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm. Isn’t that a beautiful golden color?
Step 3: Create the Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the unsalted butter. Once it’s bubbling, add the minced garlic and sauté for around 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the garlic, whisking continuously to create a smooth roux. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Stir until you have a thick and creamy sauce, which takes about 3–5 minutes. If it thickens too much, use that reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Now comes the fun part! Return the cooked chicken and drained penne pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the pasta and chicken are well coated in that luscious sauce. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and dried Italian seasoning, stirring them in for an extra burst of flavor. Keep everything on the heat for a minute or two so everything warms through.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
It’s finally time to serve this heavenly Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta! Plate the pasta while it’s warm, and don’t skimp on the sauce—it’s the star of the dish after all. For a finishing touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of additional parmesan cheese. Your dinner table just transformed into an Italian bistro!
Tips for Success
- Always taste as you go! Adjust seasoning for your preference.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate for an hour before cooking.
- Fresh garlic provides better flavor than jarred. Use it for a flavor boost!
- Make it a one-pot dish by cooking the pasta right in the sauce!
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta. A heavy-bottomed saucepan works well too.
- Large skillet: A non-stick skillet is perfect for sautéing the chicken and making the sauce.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: To stir and combine everything; you can also use a whisk for the sauce.
- Colander: For draining the pasta; a slotted spoon can work in a pinch.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables. Zucchini and bell peppers add lovely flavors!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to keep this dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Protein Swap: Try shrimp or diced turkey instead of chicken for a different take.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy variation that will heat things up!
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Side Salad: Pair it with a crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad for a fresh balance.
- Bread Basket: Serve with warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up that creamy sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A light white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the richness of the dish beautifully.
- Presentation: Use a large platter and sprinkle fresh basil and parmesan on top for a beautiful dining experience.
FAQs about Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Can I make Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta in advance?
Absolutely! This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated just before serving. Just add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to bring back that creamy texture.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk like coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that the texture may not be as rich.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
How do I store leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat on low to maintain the creaminess of the sauce!
What sides go well with this pasta?
A side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables make delightful companions to this indulgent dish. They balance the richness and round out your meal perfectly!
Final Thoughts
Making Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just following a recipe—it’s about creating memorable moments around the table. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and delightful pasta come together to form a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Whether you’re sharing this with loved ones or enjoying a quiet meal by yourself, each bite carries a blend of comfort and joy. It’s a reminder of how simple ingredients can create extraordinary experiences. I hope you find as much love in cooking this dish as I do in sharing it with you!
Print
Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and flavorful chicken pasta dish that is sure to impress anyone who tries it!
Ingredients
- 10 ounces penne pasta
- 1 and 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Olive oil, for sautéing
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Additional grated parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Boil penne in a large pot of salted water following package guidance. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 6–8 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
- In the same skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in flour, whisking constantly to form a smooth roux.
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth followed by heavy cream and parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let simmer, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
- Return cooked chicken and penne pasta to the skillet. Toss all ingredients together until evenly coated with the sauce.
- Serve warm. Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Feel free to adjust seasoning according to your taste.
- You can use grilled chicken instead of seared if preferred.
- This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
