Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich and indulgent dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, cheesy sauce, perfect for impressing anyone at the dinner table. The creamy sauce, flavored with garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning, is paired with juicy cherry tomatoes, making it a well-balanced meal that’s both comforting and flavorful. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a romantic dinner, family meal, or even a weeknight treat that feels special.

The name “Marry Me Chicken” comes from the idea that the dish is so delicious, it might just make someone fall head over heels for you. With its savory combination of creamy sauce and tender chicken, this dish will definitely make your taste buds swoon. Pair it with your favorite pasta, and you have a meal that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

In just 35 minutes, you can prepare a delicious, restaurant-worthy meal with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something impressive yet simple.

2. Rich and Creamy Sauce

The creamy Parmesan sauce, flavored with garlic and Italian seasoning, is a true standout. It’s indulgent and savory, coating the chicken and pasta perfectly.

3. Perfectly Cooked Chicken

The chicken breasts are tender and juicy, cooked in a skillet to achieve the perfect golden-brown exterior while staying moist inside.

4. Packed with Flavor

With the addition of garlic, Italian seasoning, and fresh basil, this dish is loaded with savory flavors that complement the creamy sauce and chicken.

5. Great for Special Occasions

Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner or a festive family meal, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dish that will make anyone feel special.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Fresh basil, chopped

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Include spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Use Chicken Thighs: For a richer, more tender cut of meat, substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Serve this dish with gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
• Dairy-Free Version: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk and Parmesan with dairy-free cheese to make this dish dairy-free.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together until the cheese has melted and the sauce is well combined.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Chicken

Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, then return the chicken breasts to the skillet as well.

Step 5: Simmer

Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is cooked through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the dish with freshly chopped basil before serving over your favorite pasta. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken while it’s cooking to ensure it doesn’t become dry. It should be golden-brown on the outside and juicy on the inside.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and provides a creamier, more flavorful sauce than pre-shredded cheese.
• Simmer the sauce slowly: Allow the sauce to simmer slowly to thicken without overcooking the cream or curdling it.
• Double the sauce for extra creaminess: If you like your pasta extra creamy, consider doubling the sauce ingredients to ensure plenty of sauce to coat your pasta.
• Serve with garlic bread: Pair the dish with some garlic bread to soak up any leftover creamy sauce for the perfect meal.

How to Serve

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is best served over a bed of your favorite pasta—spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne all work wonderfully. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad to balance out the richness of the dish. Don’t forget to top with extra fresh basil or grated Parmesan for an added flavor boost.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the dish in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to prevent the sauce from thickening too much.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta to maintain the quality of the sauce. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet on the stove. If needed, add a little extra cream or chicken broth to get the sauce back to its creamy consistency. Reheat the pasta separately and combine when serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this dish and will provide a richer flavor.

2. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or top the dish with freshly sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

3. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to thaw the chicken breasts before cooking for even cooking and better texture.

4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use dairy-free Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version.

5. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce instead of chicken broth and cream?

While store-bought marinara sauce can work, it will alter the flavor of the dish. For the best results, follow the original sauce instructions.

6. What pasta works best with this dish?

Any type of pasta works well with Marry Me Chicken Pasta, though fettuccine, spaghetti, and penne are popular choices.

7. Can I add extra vegetables to the sauce?

Absolutely! Adding spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini will not only enhance the flavor but also add some extra nutrients.

8. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it before serving.

9. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for it to be safely cooked through.

10. Can I make this dish without pasta?

Yes, Marry Me Chicken is delicious on its own and can be served with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of steamed vegetables if you prefer a low-carb option.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is an unforgettable dish that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful seasonings, this meal is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner or just craving something indulgent, this recipe has everything you need for a satisfying and memorable meal. Serve it with pasta, garnish with fresh basil, and enjoy the creamy goodness of this mouthwatering dish!

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