As I sit at my kitchen counter, the smell of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes fills the air. It takes me back to my family’s cozy kitchen. My mom’s “marry me” chicken pasta was our favorite comfort food. It brought us together, sharing stories and enjoying each bite.
Now, I make this recipe for my family. It reminds me of those happy memories and the joy of making a delicious meal.
The marry me chicken pasta recipe is a classic. It has tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a rich, creamy sauce. This 30-minute meal is great for busy nights or special occasions. It’s flavorful and convenient, sure to impress.
Table of Contents
Introduction to the Famous Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe has become a hit online, especially on TikTok. It’s called this because its flavors are so good, they might even lead to a proposal. The dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy sauce for a perfect taste and texture.
Origin of the Dish
This recipe started as a favorite among home cooks and bloggers on social media. Its quick popularity comes from its simplicity and impressive taste. It’s great for any meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special event.
Why It’s Called “Marry Me” Chicken
The name “Marry Me” comes from the dish’s irresistible sauce. This sauce, with sun-dried tomatoes, is so tasty, it might make you want to propose. The mix of chicken, pasta, and sauce makes for a memorable meal.
What Makes This Recipe Special
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe stands out because of its unique flavors. The sauce, made with chicken stock, heavy cream, and sun-dried tomatoes, adds a tangy richness. Spinach adds freshness, and Parmesan cheese brings a savory, nutty taste that completes the dish.
“The Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is a showstopper of a dish, with its irresistible flavors and impressive presentation. It’s no wonder it has become a viral sensation on social media!”
Essential Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
To make the “marry me chicken” pasta, you need the right ingredients. At the core are boneless, skinless chicken breasts for protein. You’ll also use 14 oz of penne pasta as the base.
For the creamy texture, use 3/4 cup of heavy cream and a lot of Parmesan cheese. Add 1 cup of sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy contrast.
Garlic, butter, olive oil, and chicken broth make the sauce aromatic. A bit of flour thickens it. Paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper add bold flavors.
Finally, add fresh basil leaves for a fresh taste. This completes the marry me chicken pasta recipe.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts | 2 large pieces |
| Penne Pasta | 14 oz |
| Heavy Cream | 3/4 cup |
| Parmesan Cheese, grated | Undefined |
| Sun-Dried Tomatoes | 1 cup |
| Garlic | Undefined |
| Butter | Undefined |
| Olive Oil | Undefined |
| Chicken Broth | Undefined |
| Flour | Undefined |
| Paprika | Undefined |
| Italian Seasoning | Undefined |
| Salt and Pepper | Undefined |
| Fresh Basil, roughly torn | 1/2 cup |
These ingredients come together to make the marry me chicken pasta dish. It’s creamy, flavorful, and loved by many. The sun-dried tomatoes give it a unique taste that will wow your taste buds.
Kitchen Equipment and Tools Needed
To make the tasty Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you’ll need some key kitchen tools and equipment. Having the right cookware and utensils makes cooking smooth and easy.
Essential Cookware
You’ll need a large skillet or heavy-duty pan for sautéing the chicken. Also, a pasta pot for boiling the noodles and a colander for straining the pasta. These basics help you prepare each part of the dish well.
Recommended Utensils
- Whisk – for blending the sauce ingredients smoothly
- Wooden spoon – for stirring the pasta and sauce without scratching your cookware
- Tongs – for handling and tossing the cooked pasta and chicken
Optional Equipment
Some extra tools can make preparing Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe even easier:
- Meat thermometer – for accurately checking the doneness of the chicken
- Garlic press – for effortlessly mincing the garlic
- Microplane grater – for finely grating the Parmesan cheese
Remember, a sharp knife and a sturdy cutting board are also important for prepping your ingredients. With these kitchen tools for chicken pasta and cooking equipment, you’ll be ready to make this delicious dish quickly.
Preparation and Cooking Time Overview
The quick chicken pasta recipe called Marry Me Chicken Pasta is easy and quick. It can be made in about 30 minutes. You’ll spend just 10 minutes preparing, like cutting the chicken and getting the ingredients ready.
The cooking part takes about 20 minutes. This includes boiling pasta, cooking the chicken, and making the creamy sauce. It’s perfect for busy nights or when you need to cook fast.
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 30 minutes |
This recipe makes 6 servings. Each serving has about 575 calories. It also has 57g of carbs, 32g of protein, and 23g of fat.
“This Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is the perfect quick and easy weeknight meal. The creamy, flavorful sauce comes together in no time, making it a family favorite.”
If you’re looking for a comforting pasta dish or a fast dinner, try this quick marry me chicken pasta recipe. It’s sure to be a favorite in your kitchen.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make the marry me chicken pasta. Start by cooking the pasta as the package says. While the pasta cooks, prepare the chicken. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and spices you like.
Sauté the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until it’s fully done and not pink anymore, about 6-8 minutes per side. Once the chicken is cooked, take it out of the pan and set it aside.
Creating the Signature Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it smells good. Sprinkle flour to make a roux, whisking constantly for about a minute.
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream slowly, whisking until it thickens. Stir in Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring now and then, until it’s the right consistency.
Combining the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
After the pasta is done and drained, put it back in the pot. Add the chicken and sauce from the skillet. Toss everything together until it’s well mixed. Top the marry me chicken pasta with fresh basil before serving.
This dish takes about 30 minutes to make, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can make the marry me chicken pasta at home. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta will make it a family favorite.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe and Cooking Tips
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is quick, ready in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special events. This one-pot meal also means less cleanup, making it a great choice for those who want to save time.
The dish’s playful name hints that it’s so good, it might even lead to a marriage proposal. It includes boneless chicken breasts, sundried tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. These ingredients make the pasta taste amazing.
To get the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Make sure all chicken pieces are the same size for even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (74°C).
Save some pasta water to adjust the sauce’s thickness if needed. Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente. Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.
For a lighter version, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. The sauce might be thinner. You can also experiment with different pasta shapes or proteins like shrimp or pork tenderloin to make it your own.
In summary, the Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful and easy meal for any time of the year. Its quick cooking, one-pot convenience, and potential for romance make it a family favorite.
Customization Options and Variations
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is very versatile. It’s a great mix of flavors, but you can change it to fit your taste or diet. There are many ways to make it your own.
Pasta Alternatives
Want to try different pasta? Ziti, rigatoni, or short pasta shapes work well. For gluten-free, try chickpea noodles or low-carb options.
Protein Substitutions
Chicken is the main protein, but you can use other meats or veggies. Salmon or shrimp are tasty alternatives. For a veggie option, mushrooms or tofu are great.
Sauce Modifications
The sauce is key, but you can tweak it. Add spinach for extra nutrition. Or, use roasted red peppers instead of sun-dried tomatoes. Try thyme or rosemary for different flavors. For spice, add more red pepper flakes or a bit of cayenne pepper.
Customizing the Marry Me Chicken Pasta lets you make it your own. You can keep the classic taste or try new things. It’s all about finding what you love.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
After enjoying the Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s key to store leftovers right. This keeps the taste and texture top-notch. Follow these easy steps to keep your store leftover chicken pasta fresh and ready to reheat marry me chicken whenever you want.
Put leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a bit of cream, broth, or water to keep it moist. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring now and then. Don’t overheat, as it can mess up the sauce.
For the best taste and texture, eat your leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta within 2-3 days. These simple tips will let you enjoy the deliciousness of Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe again and again.
| Storage Duration | Reheating Method | Recommended Consumption |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 4 days in the refrigerator | Microwave or stovetop with added liquid | Consume within 2-3 days for best flavor and texture |
Perfect Side Dish Pairings
For Marry Me Chicken Pasta, choose light and refreshing sides. These easy-to-make dishes complement the creamy pasta beautifully. They add a delightful touch to your meal.
Begin with a crisp green salad. It has fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette. Roasted veggies like broccoli or asparagus offer a nice contrast. Don’t forget garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
For a heartier start, try a light soup or a Caesar salad. Add a side of seasonal fruit for dessert. It brings freshness to the end of your meal.
Pair your meal with a glass of white wine. Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc works well. Their crispness balances the dish’s richness, making for a delightful meal.
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Crisp Green Salad | A refreshing salad featuring fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette. |
| Roasted Vegetables | Roasted broccoli or asparagus provide a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta. |
| Garlic Bread | Classic garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce. |
| Light Soup | A refreshing Caesar salad or other light soup can serve as a starter. |
| Seasonal Fruit | Fresh fruit adds a touch of sweetness and lightness to the meal. |
| White Wine | A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc can enhance the dining experience. |
Choosing the right sides and drinks makes your meal balanced and satisfying. These sides for chicken pasta and marry me chicken meal ideas will impress your guests. Enjoy your meal!
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that’s easy to make. It combines creamy, tangy flavors with tender chicken and pasta. It’s perfect for both casual easy chicken pasta dinner and special romantic meal idea occasions.
Its quick preparation time and impressive taste make it a hit. You can customize it easily with simple ingredients. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in any household, maybe even inspiring proposals!
The sauce, made with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs, is rich and flavorful. It coats the tender chicken and perfectly cooked orzo pasta. Heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a bit of spice from red pepper flakes or paprika make it indulgent and satisfying.
Looking for a quick and easy dinner or a meal to impress your loved one? Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is the perfect choice. Its comfort, flavor, and ease of preparation make it a new family favorite.