Amazing Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This creamy, irresistible chicken pasta truly lives up to its romantic name. Tender chicken breasts nestle in a rich, decadent sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, creating a dish that's both comforting and elegant. Whether you're cooking for a special someone or simply treating yourself to an indulgent weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with surprisingly simple steps.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temp).
- Remove chicken from skillet, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
- In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and butter.
- Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add sliced chicken and cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Garnish with fresh basil and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve immediately with additional Parmesan cheese.
Pro Tips & Notes
- Quality Ingredients: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor—pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect texture.
- Chicken Timing: Don't overcook the chicken during searing. It will continue cooking when added back to the sauce, keeping it juicy and tender.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Make Ahead: This dish reheats beautifully. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 780
- Protein: 45g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fiber: 3g
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What gives this dish its name? A: The combination of indulgent cream sauce, tender chicken, and sun-dried tomatoes creates such an irresistible flavor that it's said to inspire marriage proposals!
- Q: Can I make this without sun-dried tomatoes? A: Yes, substitute with roasted red peppers or fresh cherry tomatoes for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
- Q: Is this pasta kid-friendly? A: Absolutely! Kids love the creamy, cheesy sauce. Simply omit the red pepper flakes if your family prefers milder flavors.
- Q: What can I substitute for heavy cream? A: Half-and-half works, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. Evaporated milk is another good option.