Marry Me Chicken Pasta isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience. This creamy, tangy, and savory meal wins over many hearts, making it a go-to for romantic dinners, special occasions, and even simple weeknight meals. The combination of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich parmesan cream sauce creates an irresistible flavor. So, here’s everything you need to know to prepare this dish perfectly every time.
Why You Should Try Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This dish quickly becomes a favorite for many, not just because of its name but due to its rich flavor profile that brings together creaminess, tanginess, and a depth of savory goodness. Moreover, the ingredients are simple, yet when combined, they create a restaurant-quality meal perfect for any occasion.
If you’re looking to impress someone special, this dish will do it. Additionally, you can adapt it to your personal taste, whether by adding a little extra spice or including more vegetables. For another delicious pasta dish, you might enjoy our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe, which offers a different but equally rich and satisfying flavor.
Essential Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
To make this dish, gather the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts: Skinless, boneless, and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Penne Pasta: Perfect for trapping the creamy sauce.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that complements the richness of the sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan provides a sharp, rich flavor.
- Heavy Cream and Chicken Broth: These create a luxurious, creamy texture that coats every piece of pasta.
Using freshly grated parmesan gives the best flavor. Furthermore, if you’re curious about how to ensure your pasta turns out perfectly, here’s a guide to cooking perfect pasta that might help.
Preparing the Chicken and Pasta
Cooking the Chicken
- Season and Sear: Start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. Next, heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, until it’s no longer pink and fully cooked.
- Set Aside: After cooking, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. Getting the pasta to the perfect al dente texture is key.
Creating the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
The sauce is the heart of Marry Me Chicken Pasta, and creating it requires attention to detail to achieve that perfect creamy texture with a burst of flavors.
Sauté the Garlic
Sauté Garlic: Start by melting butter in the same skillet used to cook the chicken. This step not only adds richness but also picks up the flavorful bits left from cooking the chicken, infusing them into the sauce. Once the butter has melted, add minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to overcook the garlic; it should be soft and aromatic, not brown or burnt, as this could give the sauce a bitter taste.
Make a Roux
Make a Roux: After the garlic is perfectly sautéed, it’s time to make a roux. Stir in a couple of tablespoons of flour with the garlic and butter, mixing continuously to form a smooth paste. This roux acts as a thickening agent for the sauce, ensuring it clings to the pasta instead of running off. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, but avoid letting it brown. The goal here is to create a base that will thicken the sauce without altering its light, creamy color.
Add the Liquid Ingredients
Add Liquid Ingredients: Once the roux is ready, slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously. This helps to dissolve the roux into the broth, preventing any lumps from forming. The broth not only adds moisture but also deepens the flavor profile of the sauce. After the broth, gradually whisk in the heavy cream. The cream provides the rich, luxurious texture that makes this dish so comforting. As you whisk, the sauce will begin to thicken, turning velvety and smooth. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes to achieve the desired consistency—thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, yet fluid enough to spread easily over the pasta.
Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings
Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Now comes the time to add the key flavors. Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce, creating an even richer, more complex flavor. Next, add the sun-dried tomatoes, which bring a tangy sweetness that balances the richness of the cream and cheese. Sprinkle in a bit of paprika and Italian seasoning for a hint of warmth and herbaceous notes that round out the sauce. Don’t forget to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This final step ensures the sauce is perfectly seasoned, highlighting the creamy and tangy elements while complementing the chicken and pasta.
Combining Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce
Once your sauce is ready, it’s time to bring everything together into a harmonious dish:
Return the Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. As the chicken absorbs the flavors of the sauce, it becomes even more tender and flavorful. This step is crucial because it allows the chicken to meld with the sauce, ensuring every bite is consistent in taste.
Mix in the Pasta: Stir in the cooked penne pasta, ensuring that every piece is generously coated with the creamy sauce. The pasta should be enveloped in the sauce, with each tube of penne filled with the rich, savory flavors. Take your time with this step, making sure the sauce is evenly distributed and that the chicken and sun-dried tomatoes are well-integrated with the pasta.
Garnish and Serve: Lastly, garnish with chopped fresh basil and a sprinkle of additional parmesan cheese before serving. The fresh basil adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that brightens up the dish, while the extra parmesan enhances the cheesy flavor, making each bite even more decadent.
Serving Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Presentation can make all the difference in elevating this dish from a simple meal to a restaurant-quality experience. Therefore, arrange the pasta on a large serving dish or individual plates, ensuring the chicken and sun-dried tomatoes are well distributed throughout. The sauce should be glossy and inviting, clinging to the pasta and pooling slightly on the plate. Pair this dish with a light side salad or some garlic bread to complete the meal. For another comforting dish, you might want to try our Lipton Onion Soup Meatloaf, perfect for special occasions and equally satisfying.
Enhancements and Variations
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is incredibly versatile, and you can easily customize it to suit your preferences:
Add Heat: If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce or as a garnish. The heat will contrast nicely with the creamy, tangy sauce.
Include Veggies: To add more nutrition and flavor, consider incorporating vegetables like spinach, artichoke hearts, or mushrooms. These ingredients not only add texture but also enhance the dish with their unique flavors.
Extra Cheese: For an even richer dish, mix in some mozzarella or fontina cheese. The extra cheese will make the sauce even creamier and add a gooey texture that’s hard to resist.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Marry Me Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
Check Chicken Temperature: Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to make sure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat. Overcooking can make the chicken dry, so monitor it closely.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh garlic and freshly grated parmesan will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. Fresh ingredients have more vibrant flavors, which makes a noticeable difference in the final product.
Adjust Consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up. The goal is to achieve a sauce that’s creamy and smooth, not too thick or too runny.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Additionally, you may need to add a little cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.
FAQs About Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Yes, while penne is recommended, you can use any pasta shape that holds the sauce well, such as fusilli or rigatoni.
Substitute half and half for a lighter version or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Yes, you can freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 months. However, thaw and reheat gently to avoid curdling the sauce.
Add a dash of cayenne pepper or increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
Yes, mozzarella or fontina can be used for a different cheesy flavor.
Final Thoughts on Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is sure to impress anyone who tries it. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for a special dinner or a comforting weeknight meal. So, don’t hesitate to experiment with variations to make it your own!