Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe: A Dish So Good, It’ll Win Hearts!

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s guaranteed to impress, look no further than this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. This dish is a reader-favorite for a reason—it’s creamy, flavorful, and utterly irresistible. The combination of tender chicken, cheesy sun-dried tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta creates a meal that’s sure to win over anyone who tries it. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to something delicious, this recipe is a winner.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe, including step-by-step instructions, tips for success, and why this dish has earned its romantic name. Let’s dive in!

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Why Is It Called “Marry Me Chicken Pasta”?

The name “Marry Me Chicken” comes from the idea that this dish is so delicious, it could inspire a marriage proposal! The original “Marry Me Chicken” recipe gained popularity for its rich, creamy sauce and bold flavors. By adding pasta to the mix, we’ve taken this already incredible dish to the next level. The penne pasta soaks up the cheesy, sun-dried tomato sauce, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. It’s no wonder this recipe has become a favorite among home cooks and food lovers alike.

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Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Before we get started, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. The recipe serves 6 people and takes just 30 minutes from start to finish. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken Pasta:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 10 ounces penne pasta
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil, for garnish

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook the 10 ounces of penne pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to salt the water for extra flavor.
2. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and set it aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch bite-sized pieces.
2. Season the chicken with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink and cooked through.
5. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add 3 tablespoons butter. Once melted, sauté the 2 teaspoons minced garlic for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
2. Add 3 tablespoons flour to the skillet and stir to create a paste. This will help thicken the sauce.
3. Slowly whisk in 2 cups chicken broth, 1 cup heavy cream, and 1 cup grated parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Add the 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning to the sauce. Stir to combine.
5. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, allowing it to thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 4: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Add the cooked penne pasta and stir to coat everything evenly in the sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish the dish with chopped fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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The Origin and Popularity of Marry Me Chicken Pasta

The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe has taken the culinary world by storm, and its origins are as intriguing as its name. The dish is a variation of the classic “Marry Me Chicken,” which gained fame for its rich, creamy sauce and bold flavors. The original recipe is said to have been inspired by Italian-American cuisine, combining elements of creamy Alfredo sauce with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. The addition of pasta transforms this already beloved dish into a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

The name “Marry Me Chicken” comes from the idea that this dish is so delicious, it could inspire a marriage proposal. While the exact origin of the name is unclear, it’s easy to see why this recipe has earned such a romantic reputation. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes creates a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. When paired with pasta, it becomes a complete meal that’s sure to win over anyone who tries it.

The popularity of this recipe can be attributed to its simplicity and versatility. It’s easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and 30 minutes of your time. Yet, it’s versatile enough to be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to something delicious, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is a winner. Its widespread appeal has made it a favorite among home cooks and food bloggers alike, with countless variations and adaptations available online.

 Tips for Perfecting Your Marry Me Chicken Pasta

While the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is relatively simple to make, a few tips and tricks can help you achieve the perfect dish every time. First and foremost, it’s important to use high-quality ingredients. Since the recipe relies on a few key components, such as chicken, garlic, and parmesan cheese, using the best quality you can find will significantly enhance the flavor of the dish.

Another crucial tip is to avoid overcooking the pasta. Penne pasta should be cooked until it’s al dente, meaning it’s tender but still has a slight bite to it. Overcooked pasta can become mushy when mixed with the sauce, so be sure to keep an eye on it as it cooks. Additionally, salting the pasta water generously will help infuse the noodles with flavor from the inside out.

When preparing the sauce, it’s essential to let it simmer for a few minutes to allow it to thicken properly. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer for a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency. Finally, don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. A little extra salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish to new heights.

 Customizing Your Marry Me Chicken Pasta

One of the best things about the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is its versatility. While the classic version is undeniably delicious, there are countless ways to customize the dish to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For instance, if you’re looking to add more vegetables, consider incorporating spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also add a pop of color and extra nutrients to the dish.

If you’re a fan of spicy food, you can easily give the recipe a kick by adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk. Similarly, if you’re looking to reduce the carb content, you can use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash in place of the penne pasta.

For those who prefer a different type of protein, the chicken can be swapped out for shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a go-to for anyone looking to experiment in the kitchen. No matter how you choose to customize it, the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is sure to remain a crowd-pleaser that’s as adaptable as it is delicious.

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Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes makes this dish a hit with both kids and adults.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by using different types of pasta or adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.

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Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe:

• Calories: 646kcal
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Protein: 41g
• Fat: 31g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Cholesterol: 145mg
• Sodium: 962mg
• Potassium: 1248mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 10g
• Vitamin A: 1260IU
• Vitamin C: 9mg
• Calcium: 278mg
• Iron: 3mg

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works great for this recipe, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as fettuccine, rigatoni, or even spaghetti.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, cook the pasta, and combine everything.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

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Final Thoughts

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a romantic dinner or a family meal, this dish is sure to impress. With its creamy, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a favorite. Give it a try and see why it’s called “Marry Me Chicken”—it might just win someone’s heart!