Ultimate Marry Me Chicken with Pasta Recipe

In the pantheon of comfort foods, “Marry Me Chicken” holds a special place. Renowned for its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, this dish carries a charm so potent, it’s humorously said to have the power of eliciting marriage proposals. When paired with pasta, it transforms into an even more irresistible meal. Having savored this dish myself, I can attest to its enchanting flavors and textures. Here’s how to bring this culinary delight into your kitchen.

What is Marry Me Chicken with Pasta?

Marry Me Chicken is a dish characterized by chicken breasts cooked to perfection and smothered in a creamy sauce made with heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, creating a beautifully rich and flavorful experience. Served over pasta, it’s a balanced, satisfying meal that’s perfect for special occasions or a romantic dinner.

How To Make Marry Me Chicken with Pasta

Preparation Time
20 minutes
Cooking Time
30 minutes
Serves
4 adults
Difficulty
Intermediate

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Pasta of your choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work well), cooked according to package instructions

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Stir and let simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the chicken to coat. Simmer for a few more minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated through and the flavors meld.

Step 4: Prepare the Pasta

While the chicken and sauce are simmering, cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Serve

Place a serving of pasta on each plate. Top with a chicken breast and spoon over a generous amount of the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pro Tips For Marry Me Chicken with Pasta

Chicken Preparation: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning and cooking.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, allow it to simmer a bit longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to thicken.
Pasta Choice: While any pasta works, choose one that will hold onto the sauce well, such as penne or fettuccine.

Why You Will Love This Marry Me Chicken with Pasta

This “Marry Me Chicken” recipe is the epitome of indulgence, combining tender chicken and a creamy, flavorful sauce with the comforting texture of pasta. It’s a dish that promises not just a meal but an experience, one that’s likely to linger in your memory and on your taste buds.

How to Eat Marry Me Chicken with Pasta

Dive in with your fork, twirling some pasta before cutting into the juicy chicken. Each bite is meant to be savored, combining the creamy sauce, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil with the perfectly cooked pasta and chicken.

Conclusion

Whether it’s the depth of flavor, the creamy sauce, or the tender chicken, “Marry Me Chicken with Pasta” is a dish that stands out for all the right reasons. It’s a testament to the power of combining simple ingredients with love and care. So, if you’re looking to impress someone special or simply treat yourself, this recipe is a surefire way to do it.

You Can Also Read:- Catherine’s Plates Recipes – Creamy Garlic Chicken

FAQs on Marry Me Chicken with Pasta

What is Marry Me Chicken?
Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish made with chicken breasts, cooked in a rich sauce of heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. It’s so delicious it’s said to have the power to elicit marriage proposals!
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier alternative, but adjust cooking times as they may vary.
What type of pasta works best with Marry Me Chicken?
Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti complement the creamy sauce well, but you can use any pasta you prefer.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just add a little cream or broth to thin it if necessary.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the heavy cream?
Coconut milk or a rich, unsweetened almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
Simmer the sauce for a longer period to reduce it or mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and add it to the sauce, stirring well.
What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
Roasted red peppers are a good substitute if you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes on hand.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely, spinach, asparagus, or mushrooms make great additions to Marry Me Chicken.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can Marry Me Chicken with Pasta be frozen?
Yes, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Do not overcook the chicken. Remove it from the heat as soon as it’s cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
What herbs are best in Marry Me Chicken?
Basil, thyme, or oregano work beautifully in the dish.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
Yes, but the sauce will have a different texture and taste. Cherry tomatoes can be a good fresh alternative.
Is Marry Me Chicken spicy?
The recipe isn’t traditionally spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes to introduce some heat.
What type of Parmesan should I use?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and offers more flavor than pre-grated varieties.
Can I use light cream instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce may be less rich. You may need to thicken it with a little flour or cornstarch.
How do I ensure the pasta doesn’t stick together?
Use plenty of water to boil the pasta, stir occasionally, and add a little oil to the water if desired.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use them in smaller quantities as dried herbs are more potent than fresh.
What wine pairs well with Marry Me Chicken?
A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir pairs well with the creamy sauce.
Can I add bacon to the recipe?
Yes, bacon adds a nice crunch and smoky flavor to the dish.
How can I make the dish healthier?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, whole wheat pasta, and add more vegetables to increase fiber content.
Can I cook the pasta in the sauce?
It’s best to cook the pasta separately to control its doneness and prevent the sauce from becoming too starchy.
How do I reheat the dish without drying out the chicken?
Reheat it covered on low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep it moist.
Can I make Marry Me Chicken in a slow cooker?
Yes, though sear the chicken first for best texture, then cook on low for 3-4 hours.
How can I add more flavor to the sauce?
A splash of white wine can deepen the sauce’s flavor. Add it after cooking the chicken and let it reduce before adding the cream.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
Romano or Asiago cheese can be good substitutes for Parmesan.
Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, though olive oil is recommended for its flavor, other vegetable oils can be used.
Can I make this recipe without garlic?
Yes, but you may want to add more herbs or spices to compensate for the flavor loss.
How can I serve Marry Me Chicken for a special occasion?
Present it on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and a side of garlic bread for an elegant meal.