Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Indulge in the Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta, a dish that combines tender chicken, rich parmesan sauce, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes into a meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This delightful recipe offers a creamy texture and flavors that will impress your loved ones, making it ideal for cozy weeknights or romantic dinners. Best of all, you can whip up this comforting pasta dish in just 30 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 30 minutes needed, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
- Family-Friendly: This creamy pasta is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
- Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes creates an irresistible taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special date night, this dish fits right in.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A large skillet allows you to cook the chicken evenly while making the creamy sauce.
- Pot: Essential for boiling the penne pasta to perfection.
- Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Pasta
- 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 10 oz penne pasta
For the Sauce
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes
For Seasoning
- Olive oil
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side until it is fully cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in flour to create a roux.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients for Sauce
Gradually whisk in chicken broth, followed by heavy cream and parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Add Flavorful Elements
Add sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer until thickened slightly.
Step 6: Combine Everything Together
Return the cooked chicken along with drained penne pasta to the skillet. Stir everything together well to combine flavors.
Step 7: Serve
Serve immediately garnished with fresh basil and extra parmesan if desired. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta!
How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Serving Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta can elevate your dining experience, making it feel even more special. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish and impress your guests.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the top for a burst of color and flavor.
- Chili Flakes: Add a pinch of chili flakes for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals.
Pair with Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.
- Italian Focaccia: A slice of Italian focaccia adds a delightful texture and complements the pasta wonderfully.
Plate Presentation
- Elegant Serving Dishes: Use white or brightly colored plates to make the creamy pasta stand out.
- Layered Presentation: Consider layering the chicken and pasta for a visually appealing look.
Add Some Cheese
- Extra Parmesan: Offer grated parmesan on the side for guests to add as they please.
- Feta Cheese Crumbles: For a tangy twist, sprinkle feta cheese over each serving.
How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
To ensure that your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, follow these straightforward tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken and high-quality parmesan cheese to enhance flavor.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook your penne pasta al dente so it retains its texture when combined with the sauce.
- Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Taste as you go! This way, you can adjust salt and pepper for a balanced flavor.
- Simmer for Flavor Development: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps deepen its flavors—don’t rush this step.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Complement your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta with these fantastic side dishes that will round out your meal beautifully.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and shaved parmesan.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy green option that balances the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender adds color and nutrition.
- Caprese Salad: Layers of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer freshness.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears grilled until tender create an elegant touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta to the next level. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Incorrect Pasta Cooking: Overcooking or undercooking the pasta can ruin the dish’s texture. Always follow package instructions and taste it a minute before the suggested cooking time.
- Not Seasoning Chicken Properly: Skipping seasoning can lead to bland chicken. Make sure to season generously with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance flavor.
- Skipping the Roux Step: Neglecting to create a roux can result in a lumpy sauce instead of a creamy one. Take the time to stir the flour into the butter until smooth before adding liquids.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap ingredients can affect the overall taste of your dish. Opt for high-quality parmesan and fresh sun-dried tomatoes for an authentic flavor.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many chicken pieces at once can lower the pan temperature, causing steaming rather than searing. Cook in batches if necessary for better browning.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Good for up to 2-3 months; label with date.
Reheating Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot throughout.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to maintain creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta:
Can I customize my Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
What sides go well with Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute regular penne pasta with gluten-free pasta options available on the market.
How spicy is Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
This recipe is not spicy, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes for heat if desired.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients according to your preferences, making it perfect for various occasions. Try it today and impress your loved ones!
Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the irresistible Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta, a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, rich parmesan sauce, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. This comforting pasta is perfect for cozy weeknights or romantic dinners, and you can prepare it in just 30 minutes! With its creamy texture and rich flavors, this meal is sure to impress your loved ones. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant dish for a special occasion, this recipe will elevate your dining experience.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 10 oz penne pasta
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- Olive oil
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Cook chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side until fully cooked; remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Stir in flour to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth, then heavy cream and parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; simmer until thickened.
- Return cooked chicken and drained penne to the skillet; mix well.
- Serve immediately garnished with fresh basil and extra parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
