Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Why Make This Recipe
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delicious meal that is easy to prepare and full of flavors. This dish combines juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and tasty pasta.
It is perfect for a cozy dinner and might even impress your loved ones. The blend of sun-dried tomatoes and herbs makes every bite enjoyable.
How To Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: 2 large, boneless, skinless, sliced thinly
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp, for searing
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 1/3 cup, chopped
- Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, freshly grated
- Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 tsp (optional for spice)
- Pasta: 8 oz, such as penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine
- Fresh Basil: For garnish
Directions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil water, add salt, and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken slices until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well, then add parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice.
- Combine Everything: Return the chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce for a few minutes. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well coated.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Prep Time And Nutrition Facts
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making a total of 30 minutes. It serves 4 people and each serving has about 350 calories, with 25 grams of protein and 15 grams of fat.
How To Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Serve this dish warm with a sprinkle of fresh basil on top. You can pair it with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How To Store Marry Me Chicken Pasta
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.
Tips To Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- If you like it spicy, adjust the red pepper flakes to your taste.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
Health And Benefits Of This Recipe
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a good source of protein from the chicken and cheese, which helps in muscle building and repair. The cream adds richness, while sun-dried tomatoes provide vitamins and antioxidants. You can make it healthier by using whole wheat pasta or adding more veggies. This dish is satisfying and balanced, making it a great option for a family meal.
Variation
You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different twist. You can also use vegetarian broth instead of chicken broth to make it plant-based.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like, such as spaghetti, fusilli, or even gluten-free options.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just cook the pasta fresh when you are ready to serve.
3. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative to reduce calories or make it dairy-free.
