Oh my goodness, let me tell you about *Marry Me Chicken with Pasta*! This dish has taken over my home like a warm, delicious hug. It all started one evening when I wanted to impress my partner with something special, and wow, did this recipe deliver! The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta meld together in a way that makes you want to shout, « Yes, I do! » The best part? It’s super quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you still want to feel like you’re treating yourself. Trust me, the moment that creamy goodness hits your taste buds, you’ll understand why this has become a staple at our dinner table. It’s comforting, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying! I can’t wait for you to try it!
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken with Pasta
- 1 lb chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 8 oz pasta, any type you love (I often use penne or fettuccine)
- 1 cup heavy cream, for that rich, velvety texture
- 1 cup chicken broth, low-sodium works great
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (the more, the merrier!)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, because who doesn’t love cheese?
- 2 cloves garlic, minced, for that aromatic kick
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning, to bring all the flavors together
- Salt and pepper to taste, don’t be shy!
- Fresh basil for garnish, adds that pop of color and freshness
How to Prepare Marry Me Chicken with Pasta
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, let’s get that pasta cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. I like to add about a tablespoon of salt, as it really enhances the flavor of the pasta. Once it’s boiling, toss in your pasta and cook according to the package instructions. For most types, this is usually around 8-10 minutes. You want it to be al dente, which means it should have a slight bite to it. Trust me, this will help it absorb all that creamy sauce later! Once it’s done, drain it in a colander and set it aside. Don’t rinse it; we want that starch to help the sauce cling later!
Preparing the Chicken
Now onto the chicken! I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. Start by seasoning them generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This adds so much flavor! Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer if you have one; chicken should hit 165°F (75°C) to be safe. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces. This helps keep it juicy!
Making the Sauce
With the chicken resting, it’s time for the sauce! In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute until it’s fragrant—oh, you’ll love this smell! Then, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Bring it to a gentle simmer; you want to see those bubbles, but don’t let it boil! Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into that luscious sauce. If it gets too thick, don’t worry—just add a splash more chicken broth!
Combining Ingredients
Now for the grand finale! Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated. This is where the magic happens—make sure every piece of pasta and chicken gets that creamy goodness! If it looks a bit dry, you can add a tiny bit more chicken broth or pasta water to loosen it up. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for a pop of color and flavor. And voilà, you’ve got yourself a delicious plate of Marry Me Chicken with Pasta ready to serve!
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep an eye on your pasta as it cooks. Al dente is key, so taste it a minute or two before the package time is up!
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil, quality chicken, and good parmesan can make a world of difference in flavor. It’s worth it!
- Customize the sauce: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them alongside the garlic.
- Let the chicken rest: After cooking, let your chicken sit for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy!
- Save some pasta water: If your sauce is too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water can help loosen it up while adding starch for creaminess.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce as you go! You might want a pinch more salt or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Garnish generously: A good amount of fresh basil on top not only looks lovely but adds a fresh burst of flavor right at the end!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional information for a serving of *Marry Me Chicken with Pasta*. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, so take them as a general guide:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 30g
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein, making it a satisfying meal. Just remember, if you swap any ingredients—like using a different type of pasta or cream—you might want to recalculate these numbers. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Me Chicken with Pasta
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! One of the best things about *Marry Me Chicken with Pasta* is its versatility. You can use any pasta you love—whether it’s penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the type you choose, so be sure to check the package instructions. I often switch it up based on what I have on hand, and it always turns out delicious!
How can I make this dish healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, there are a few easy swaps you can make! You might try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lower-fat option. Additionally, swapping out the chicken for turkey or using boneless, skinless chicken thighs can cut down on calories while still delivering flavor. You can also load it up with veggies like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition without sacrificing taste!
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep or making ahead. If you plan to make it in advance, just cook everything as usual, but don’t combine the pasta with the sauce until you’re ready to serve—this helps keep the pasta from getting too soft. Store the chicken, sauce, and pasta in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up if needed. It’s just as tasty, if not better, the next day!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just about 40 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without a long prep time.
- Creamy and Flavorful: The rich sauce, made with heavy cream and sun-dried tomatoes, envelops the chicken and pasta in a way that’s simply irresistible!
- Customizable: Feel free to play around with different types of pasta or add veggies to the mix. It’s super versatile and can be tailored to your taste!
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a creamy pasta dish! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
- Impressive Presentation: Just a sprinkle of fresh basil on top not only adds a pop of color but also elevates the dish, making it look fancy without any extra effort.
- Leftover Heaven: This dish tastes just as good, if not better, the next day! Perfect for meal prep or enjoying as a delicious lunch.
- Comfort Food: There’s nothing quite like a hearty, comforting meal after a long day. This recipe hits all the right notes and leaves you feeling satisfied.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delightful *Marry Me Chicken with Pasta*, let’s talk about how to elevate your meal even more! Pairing it with the right sides can take this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is a perfect complement. It adds a refreshing crunch that balances the creamy pasta beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up that luscious sauce, and honestly, who doesn’t love a good piece of garlic bread?
- Roasted Vegetables: Consider serving some roasted seasonal veggies, like asparagus or zucchini, on the side. They add color, flavor, and a healthy touch to your plate!
- Wine Pairing: A nice white wine, like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay, pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce. If you prefer red, a light Pinot Noir would also work well!
- Cheesy Garlic Knots: If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, serve some cheesy garlic knots. They’re fun to eat and add an extra layer of comfort to your meal!
These sides not only enhance your dining experience but also make your table look inviting and vibrant. Enjoy your feast, and don’t forget to savor every bite of that creamy goodness!
Imprimer
Marry Me Chicken with Pasta: 5 Reasons to Love It
- Temps Total: 40 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Faible En Calories
Description
Marry Me Chicken with Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken and pasta in a rich sauce.
Ingrédients
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and cream. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Add cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Toss to combine.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Use any pasta of your choice.
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 25 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Course
- Méthode: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sucre: 3g
- De Sodium: 600mg
- La graisse: 25g
- Graisses Saturées: 12g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 10g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 35g
- La fibre: 2g
- La protéine: 30g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 100mg
Mots-clés: marry me chicken, chicken pasta, creamy chicken, Italian dish
