Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy parmesan sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes with perfectly cooked penne pasta. This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is perfect for every occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special date night. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s no surprise that this meal is said to have the power to inspire marriage proposals!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken & Pasta
• For the Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Sauce
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Garnish & Serve
• How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Romantic Dinner Setting
• Accompanying Salad
• Perfect Wine Pairing
• Bread Options
• Garnish Ideas
• How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Reheating Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is the focus of the Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe?
• Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
• How can I customize the Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• What should I serve with Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich and Flavorful: The creamy parmesan sauce combined with sun-dried tomatoes creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or an elegant date night.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its cheesy goodness and tender chicken, everyone at the table will love it!
• Easy Cleanup: Made in one skillet, this recipe minimizes cleanup time while maximizing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are the key items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board and knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for cooking the chicken and making the creamy sauce all in one pan.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A good-sized pot ensures even cooking of the penne pasta without overcrowding.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements guarantee the best flavor in your creamy sauce.
• Cutting board and knife: Proper tools make chopping ingredients easier and safer.

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Pasta

• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 10 ounces penne pasta
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• Fresh basil, chopped
• Additional parmesan cheese (optional)

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain it well and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes while constantly stirring to create a roux.
Slowly whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, and grated parmesan cheese until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
Simmer the sauce for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
Return cooked chicken and pasta back into the skillet. Stir gently to coat everything evenly in that luscious sauce.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and additional parmesan cheese if you like! Serve immediately for a delicious meal that’s sure to impress.

Enjoy your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Serving Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is an opportunity to impress your family or guests with its delightful flavors and textures. Here are some creative suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Romantic Dinner Setting

• Candlelit Table: Set the mood with candles and soft music for a romantic dinner.
• Beautiful Dishware: Use elegant plates and wine glasses to enhance the presentation.

Accompanying Salad

• Fresh Green Salad: Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta and adds crunch.

Perfect Wine Pairing

• Chardonnay: This white wine complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Pinot Noir: If you prefer red, Pinot Noir offers a nice balance without overwhelming the dish.

Bread Options

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping into the sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: A toasted baguette is great for soaking up all that delicious sauce.

Garnish Ideas

• Chopped Fresh Basil: Adds color and freshness on top of each serving.
• Extra Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan for added flavor.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

To ensure your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality parmesan will enhance the overall taste.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook until just done to keep it tender and juicy.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If too thick, add pasta water gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning during cooking for optimal flavor balance.
• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving for better flavor melding.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Looking for the perfect side dishes to serve with your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta? Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: This simple side adds nutrition and pairs well with creamy pasta.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus brings a fresh, vibrant touch to your meal.
3. Caprese Salad: The combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil enhances your Italian theme.
4. Bruschetta: Crunchy bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes a tasty appetizer.
5. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini can be served alongside or under the pasta.
6. Antipasto Platter: Provide a variety of cured meats, olives, and cheeses for a flavorful starter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make simple mistakes when preparing the Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. Avoiding these can enhance your dish significantly.

• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season the chicken and sauce properly can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions closely and aim for al dente.
• Not letting the sauce thicken: If you rush the simmering process, your sauce may be too thin. Allow it to simmer until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap ingredients can compromise the flavor of your dish. Opt for fresh, high-quality items, especially cheese and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Ignoring leftovers storage: Improperly storing leftovers can make them spoil quickly. Use airtight containers and refrigerate promptly.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Portion into individual servings for easy reheating later.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if necessary to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the focus of the Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe?

The focus is on creating a rich, creamy pasta dish that combines chicken with sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan cheese, promising delightful flavors.

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes! While penne is traditional, you can substitute with fusilli, rotini, or any pasta shape you prefer.

How can I customize the Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. You can also swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe stores well in the refrigerator and makes an excellent meal prep option.

What should I serve with Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Pair this dish with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion, from casual dinners to romantic date nights. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or sides. Try it today—you might just find yourself making a proposal of your own!