Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Welcome to your next favorite weeknight meal! Our Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a quick, creamy, and irresistibly flavorful one-pot dinner that brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich sun-dried tomato sauce—all in just 30 minutes.

Why We Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Quick and Easy Preparation
Discover how minimal prep time and a one-pot approach make this Marry Me Chicken Pasta ideal for busy weeknights.

Rich, Creamy Flavor with Sun-Dried Tomato Magic
Enjoy the unique blend of heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly seasoned chicken that makes this dish so memorable.

Versatile and Family-Friendly Meal
Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special family gathering, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta is sure to impress with its crowd-pleasing appeal.

Ingredients to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

For the best results, it’s important to use quality ingredients. Here’s everything you need to recreate this mouthwatering dish at home.

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-2 inch pieces)
• 8 oz pasta of your choice (penne, rigatoni, or spirali work great)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter (or ghee)
• ½ cup finely chopped onion
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a mild kick)
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Ingredient Notes

• Use high-quality heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan for an extra rich sauce.
• Finely chop the sun-dried tomatoes so they melt into the sauce, releasing their tangy flavor.
• Ensure the chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.

Substitutions & Variations for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is incredibly flexible. Here are some ideas to customize it to your taste or dietary needs:

Ingredient Substitutions

• Chicken Options: Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a juicier result.
• Dairy Alternatives: Use dairy-free cream and vegan Parmesan if you prefer a lactose-free version.
• Pasta Variations: Try gluten-free pasta or different shapes like rigatoni or ziti for a new twist.

Creative Recipe Variations

• Add extra vegetables such as broccoli or roasted red peppers to increase the nutritional value.
• For a brighter flavor, finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh basil.

Equipment Needed for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Having the right tools in your kitchen makes cooking much more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious recipe:

• One large, deep skillet or sauté pan with a lid
• Measuring cups and spoons
• A cutting board and sharp knife
• A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• A mixing bowl (optional, for prepping ingredients)

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta – Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these detailed, actionable steps to create your perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Step 1: Preparation

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Start by cutting 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into uniform 1-2 inch pieces.
   • Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning.
   • If you have time, let the chicken marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Chop the Vegetables:
   • Finely chop ½ cup of onion and mince 3–4 cloves of garlic.
   • Roughly chop ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes.
   • Rinse and set aside 2 cups of fresh spinach.
   • Tear a few fresh basil leaves for garnish later.

Step 2: Searing the Chicken

1. Heat the Pan:
   • Place your large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. The butter not only adds flavor but helps achieve a lovely golden sear on the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Once the oil and butter are hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer.
   • Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until all sides turn a beautiful golden brown and the chicken is almost cooked through.
   • Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. This step locks in the flavors and juices of the meat.

Step 3: Building the Creamy Sauce

1. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
2. Deglaze the Pan:
   • Add 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth to the pan. Use your wooden spoon to gently scrape up any browned bits from the bottom—these add depth and flavor to your sauce.
3. Incorporate Key Ingredients:
   • Stir in the ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 1 cup heavy cream.
   • Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon smoked paprika and ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using).
   • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the cream and broth to meld together into a rich, flavorful base.

Step 4: Cooking the Pasta in the One-Pot

1. Add the Pasta:
   • Add 8 oz of your chosen pasta directly into the pan. Pour in any additional chicken broth if needed, ensuring that the pasta is mostly submerged.
   • Cover the skillet with its lid and let the pasta cook, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This should take about 11-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente.
2. Monitor the Liquid:
   • Keep an eye on the liquid level. If the sauce thickens too much before the pasta is fully cooked, add a splash of hot water or extra broth to keep the consistency creamy.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

1. Reintroduce the Chicken:
   • Once the pasta is nearly done, return the seared chicken to the pan. Stir gently to mix it evenly with the pasta and sauce.
2. Add Fresh Greens and Cheese:
   • Stir in the 2 cups of fresh spinach and let it wilt into the sauce, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
   • Remove the pan from heat and stir in ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt into the warm sauce, making it even creamier.
3. Final Seasoning:
   • Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
   • Garnish with fresh basil leaves just before serving for a burst of herbal freshness.

Expert Tips & Notes

Here are a few expert tips to help you perfect this Marry Me Chicken Pasta every time:

• Ensure all chicken pieces are similar in size to promote even cooking and prevent dryness.
• Reserve a little pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
• Add a dash of lemon juice or extra fresh basil at the end to brighten up the rich, creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas to make your meal even more memorable:

Classic Presentation

• Direct from the Pan:
  Serve the pasta hot directly from the skillet with a generous sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a few torn basil leaves on top. This simple presentation highlights the dish’s rich colors and textures.

Complementary Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread:
  Pair your Marry Me Chicken Pasta with a slice of crusty garlic bread. Use dairy-free butter if you’re making a dairy-free version. The bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Mixed Greens Salad:
  A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion for added crunch and color.
• Steamed Vegetables:
  For a lighter side, consider serving with steamed broccoli or asparagus. The slight crunch and fresh flavor of the vegetables complement the creamy sauce wonderfully.

Ideal Occasions

• Family Dinners:
  This dish is a great option for busy family nights. It’s comforting, filling, and easy to serve when everyone is looking for a quick yet satisfying meal.
• Date Nights:
  The rich, indulgent flavors make this pasta an excellent choice for a cozy, romantic dinner at home. Light some candles, put on your favorite music, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in your own space.
• Casual Gatherings:
  Impress your friends with this crowd-pleasing recipe at your next casual get-together. It’s simple enough to prepare ahead of time, yet it always sparks rave reviews.

Leftovers & Storage Tips for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Storing Leftovers

• Cool Completely:
  Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the pasta soggy.
• Refrigeration:
  Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best taste, try to consume within this time frame.

Reheating Instructions

• Stovetop Method:
  Reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened overnight.
• Microwave Option:
  Alternatively, you can microwave the pasta in a microwave-safe container. Cover loosely and heat in short intervals, stirring between each interval until warmed through.
• Prevent Dryness:
  A little extra cream or broth during reheating can help restore the dish’s original creamy texture.

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FAQs

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this Marry Me Chicken Pasta – Creamy, One-Pot Dinner as much as I do. It’s a recipe that’s not only simple and quick but also full of robust, comforting flavors that make every bite special. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a special someone, this dish is sure to impress.

If you decide to try this recipe, I’d love to hear about your experience. Please leave a comment below or share your dish on social media using the hashtag # Quincy_Recipes_ #MarryMeChickenPasta. Your feedback and photos mean the world to me and help inspire others to create their own culinary masterpieces.

Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious one-pot wonder!