Marry Me Chicken Pasta: 5 Reasons to Fall in Love Tonight

marry me chicken pasta is a delicious dinner idea

By:

Julia marin

Oh my gosh, let me tell you about Marry Me Chicken Pasta! This dish is seriously the epitome of comfort food and has become a staple in my kitchen. Picture this: tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a dreamy, creamy sauce that just hugs your taste buds. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to shout “I do!” with every delicious bite.

marry me chicken pasta is a delicious dinner idea - detail 1

I first tried this recipe on a whim, and I instantly fell in love. The combination of flavors is just irresistible! The richness of the heavy cream, the savory garlic, and the nutty parmesan cheese all come together to create a symphony of deliciousness that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s so quick to whip up—perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want something gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen.

This dish has that magical quality that makes it feel special, yet it’s incredibly easy to prepare. I’ve served it to friends and family, and every time, I get the same reaction: “Wow, this is amazing!” Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s called Marry Me Chicken Pasta—it’s bound to steal your heart!

Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this dish sing! Here’s what you’ll need to create this creamy, dreamy pasta delight:

  • 2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless for easy cooking)
  • 8 ounces of pasta (I love using fettuccine or penne, but any pasta will work!)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (this is where the magic happens, trust me)
  • 1 cup chicken broth (for that extra layer of flavor)
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (the more, the merrier! It gives that rich, cheesy goodness)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (this blend really elevates the dish)
  • Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy—seasoning is key!)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing the chicken to golden perfection)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (it adds a pop of color and freshness)

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready, and you’re going to be on your way to a fabulous dinner that will impress anyone at your table!

How to Prepare Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the magic of preparing Marry Me Chicken Pasta! It’s a straightforward process that yields such delicious results—trust me, you’re going to love it!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

First things first, let’s get that pasta going! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—usually around 8 to 10 minutes. I always taste a piece to make sure it’s just right; you want it to have a slight bite. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Don’t forget to reserve a little pasta water (about half a cup) just in case you need it later to adjust the sauce!

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While your pasta is cooking, let’s focus on the chicken! Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this helps achieve that beautiful golden sear. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once they’re done, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing them into strips. This resting period makes sure they stay juicy!

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Now, the fun part—creating that luscious sauce! In the same skillet (don’t clean it, we want all those yummy flavors), add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it’s fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and then sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese. Stir until it melts into a creamy, smooth sauce. If it seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of that reserved pasta water to loosen it up!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Time to bring it all together! Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well-coated in that heavenly sauce. You want every noodle to be drenched in deliciousness—this is the moment where it all comes to life!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

For the final touch, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the top. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also brings a fresh flavor that brightens up the dish! Serve it right away while it’s warm and creamy, and watch everyone at the table fall in love with this meal. Trust me, they’ll be begging for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 35 minutes!
  • Rich, creamy sauce that’s absolutely heavenly and comforting.
  • Perfectly tender chicken that’s bursting with flavor.
  • A satisfying meal that will fill you up without leaving you feeling heavy.
  • Versatile—swap in your favorite pasta or adjust the seasoning to your taste!
  • Great for weeknight dinners but fancy enough for date nights or special occasions.
  • Leftovers taste amazing, making it perfect for lunch the next day.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Marry Me Chicken Pasta turns out perfect every single time, I’ve got some handy tips that I’ve learned along the way! These little nuggets of wisdom will help you avoid common pitfalls and make the cooking process a breeze.

  • Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking it until it’s al dente is key. If you overdo it, the pasta can get mushy when mixed with the sauce. So, keep an eye on it and taste as you go!
  • Let the chicken rest: After cooking, allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes helps retain its juices, making each bite tender and juicy. It’s worth the wait!
  • Use freshly grated parmesan: If possible, opt for fresh parmesan instead of the pre-grated stuff. It melts better and gives a creamier texture to your sauce. Plus, the flavor is out of this world!
  • Adjust the seasoning: Everyone’s taste buds are different, so don’t hesitate to tweak the salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to suit your palate. Taste as you go to find that perfect balance!
  • Save some pasta water: That starchy water can work wonders! If your sauce is too thick, just a splash will help loosen it up and create a silky finish.
  • Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to throw in some veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to amp up the nutrition and flavor. It’s your dish, so make it your own!
  • Garnish generously: Don’t skimp on the parsley! It not only looks beautiful but also adds a fresh kick that elevates the entire dish.

By following these tips, you’ll not only avoid any hiccups but also impress everyone at the table with your cooking prowess. Happy cooking, and enjoy every scrumptious bite!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s good to know a bit about what you’re putting on your plate! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values for one serving. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this will give you a general idea:

  • Calories: 600
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg
  • Sodium: 800mg

So, there you have it! This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein to keep you satisfied. Enjoy every creamy bite, and don’t forget to share with loved ones—after all, meals are best enjoyed together!

FAQ Section

Got questions about Marry Me Chicken Pasta? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up, along with my tried-and-true answers:

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While I love fettuccine and penne, you can use any pasta you have on hand. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions. It’s all about what you enjoy!

What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even a mixture of milk and cornstarch. Just keep in mind that the sauce might be a bit less rich, but still delicious!

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Adding veggies like spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the garlic, or toss them in with the pasta to cook lightly.

Is this dish gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free pasta, then yes! Just make sure to check the labels of your pasta and chicken broth to ensure they are gluten-free.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but I recommend cooking the pasta fresh right before serving to keep everything at its best texture. Just toss them together when you’re ready to eat!

What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A nice glass of white wine wouldn’t hurt either! It makes for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if you have to. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

Hopefully, these answers help you feel more confident about whipping up this delicious dish. If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out! Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve perfected your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s time to think about some delightful pairings to create a complete meal! Trust me, the right sides and drinks can elevate your dining experience and make it feel even more special.

  • Fresh Side Salad: A crisp, green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is a perfect contrast to the creamy pasta. It adds a refreshing crunch that balances out the richness of the dish.
  • Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread! It’s perfect for mopping up that luscious sauce and makes for a comforting addition to the table.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Try some roasted seasonal veggies like asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers. Toss them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until tender. The char adds a nice depth of flavor!
  • Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans drizzled with lemon juice and a sprinkle of salt provide a vibrant, healthy side that complements the pasta beautifully.
  • Wine Pairing: A glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs wonderfully with this dish. The acidity cuts through the creaminess and enhances the overall flavor experience.
  • Herbal Iced Tea: If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing herbal iced tea with a hint of lemon is a fantastic choice. It’s light and complements the meal without overpowering it.

Feel free to mix and match according to your preferences and what you have on hand! The goal is to create a meal that’s not only delicious but also delightful to enjoy with family and friends. Bon appétit!

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marry me chicken pasta is a delicious dinner idea

Marry Me Chicken Pasta: 5 Reasons to Fall in Love Tonight


  • Autor: Julia marin
  • Całkowity Czas: 35 minutes
  • Ustępować: 4 servings 1x
  • Dieta: Bez Glutenu

Opis

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delicious dinner idea that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta for a satisfying meal.


Składniki

Skala
  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 8 ounces of pasta
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instrukcje

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  4. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
  5. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  6. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
  7. Add chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
  8. Bring to a simmer, then add parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
  9. Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Uwagi

  • This dish pairs well with a side salad.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Czas Przygotowania: 15 minutes
  • Czas gotowania: 20 minutes
  • Kategoria: Dinner
  • Sposób: Stovetop
  • Kuchnia: Italian

Zasilanie

  • Wielkość porcji: 1 serving
  • Kalorie: 600
  • Cukier: 2g
  • Sód: 800mg
  • Kwasy: 30g
  • Nasycony tłuszcz: 15g
  • Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 10g
  • Tłuszcze trans: 0g
  • Węglowodany: 50g
  • Włókno: 2g
  • Białko: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg

Słowa kluczowe: marry me chicken pasta, chicken pasta recipe, creamy pasta dish

O mnie

Cześć, nazywam się Julia, jestem sercem Vihaad Rrzepisy i pasjonatką dobrej kuchni. Moja miłość do gotowania zaczęła się w dzieciństwie, inspirowana pysznymi posiłkami mojej babci. Dziś dzielę się smacznymi przepisami, które łączą ludzi poprzez wspólne delektowanie się jedzeniem.

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