Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This creamy pasta dish combines tender chicken with a luscious sauce enriched by sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese. Its rich texture and balanced flavors make it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special meal that impresses without much fuss.

I first tried this when I wanted something comforting but elegant and it quickly became a favorite for busy evenings and casual date nights alike.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces dried pasta such as penne rigatoni or fettuccine: choose shapes that hold sauce well for the best bite
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: to gently sauté aromatics and chicken
• ½ cup finely chopped onion: opt for sweet onions for a subtle depth of flavor
• 3 to 4 cloves garlic minced: fresh garlic brings essential aroma and savory notes
• 1 tablespoon butter: adds richness to the sauce and helps brown the chicken
• 1 pound chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces: use fresh high-quality chicken for tenderness
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: blends herbs that enhance the overall flavor profile
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: introduces a subtle smokiness
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: provide a gentle heat to balance the creaminess
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: for layered garlic flavor
• ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper: adjust to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a lighter sauce option: heavy cream creates the richest texture
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: freshly grated for the best melt and flavor
• ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes: for bursts of tangy sweetness
• Fresh basil leaves: to garnish and add fresh herbal brightness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Cook the pasta in salted boiling water following package directions until just tender but firm to the bite. Drain thoroughly and set aside to prevent overcooking.

Sauté the Aromatics:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook for two to three minutes until the onions soften and release their aroma.

Cook the Chicken:

Add butter to the skillet then add the chicken pieces. Season with Italian seasoning smoked paprika red pepper flakes garlic powder salt and black pepper. Cook for six to eight minutes stirring occasionally until the chicken turns golden and is cooked through.

Create the Cream Sauce:

Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Let the mixture simmer gently for three to four minutes stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly.

Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes:

Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir to evenly distribute their flavor throughout the sauce.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Return the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated with the creamy sauce.

Season and Garnish:

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed adding more Parmesan for cheesiness or red pepper flakes for heat. Finish with fresh basil leaves for color and flavor.

My favorite ingredient is the sun-dried tomatoes. Their tangy sweetness cuts through the richness and adds a complexity I find irresistible. A family favorite moment was when my partner jokingly said one bite felt like a marriage proposal which is exactly where the dish got its name.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk though the sauce will be less thick. Use turkey breast instead of chicken for a leaner protein option.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Crusty garlic bread pairs perfectly to soak up the creamy sauce.

Cultural Context

This dish blends Italian-American flavors inspired by classic creamy chicken recipes and pasta traditions. Its name hints at its irresistible appeal and has become popular in home kitchens for its quick preparation and comforting taste.

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Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work well, but any pasta that holds sauce nicely is suitable.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative to reduce richness.

→ Can I replace chicken with another protein?

Yes, shrimp or tofu can be used as alternatives to chicken for different flavor profiles.

→ What adds the best flavor to the sauce?

Fresh garlic, grated Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes combine to create a rich, savory, and tangy sauce.

→ Is it possible to add vegetables?

Absolutely, spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers are great additions to enhance texture and nutrition.