There’s something truly special about a dish that brings the whole family together, and this is that recipe for me. The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a beautiful medley of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped around a delightful bed of penne pasta. It’s wonderfully indulgent, like a warm hug on a plate, and I find myself reaching for it whenever I want to impress my loved ones or just treat myself to something special.
Cooking can often feel overwhelming, but this dish comes together surprisingly fast and doesn’t require any fancy skills. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen! I love that this dish is a crowd-pleaser and, if there are any leftovers (which is rare!), they make for a delicious next-day lunch!
Why I Love The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Let me tell you, The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta hits that sweet spot of ease and elegance! It’s incredibly easy and undeniably delicious, making it a true winner at my table. The creamy sauce strikes a perfect balance with the smoky paprika and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with flavor and ready in no time.
The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta Ingredients
The magic of this dish truly lies in the harmony of its ingredients. From the savory chicken to the rich cream and cheesy parmesan, they come together in a way that’ll make your taste buds dance! Don’t worry about exact measurements just yet; those are all in the recipe card for you!
Essential Components:
- 1 LB BONELESS, SKINLESS CHICKEN BREAST: The star of the show! Tender and juicy, it absorbs all the delicious flavors of the sauce.
- SALT AND PEPPER, TO TASTE: Essential seasonings that elevate the dish, making sure each bite is flavorful.
- 1 tbsp OLIVE OIL: Adds richness to the chicken while helping it achieve that perfect golden crust.
- 3 tbsp UNSALTED BUTTER: For a luxuriously creamy sauce.
- 4 CLOVES GARLIC, MINCED: This aromatic wonder provides a fragrant foundation for the dish.
- 2 tbsp ALL-PURPOSE FLOUR: Helps to thicken the sauce, creating that dreamy, silky texture.
- 2 CUPS LOW-SODIUM CHICKEN BROTH: Adds depth and richness without overpowering the dish.
- 1 CUP HEAVY CREAM: For that decadent creaminess that makes everyone swoon!
- ½ CUP FRESHLY GRATED PARMESAN CHEESE: Because who could resist the lusciousness of melted cheese?
- ½ CUP SUN-DRIED TOMATOES (OIL-PACKED, DRAINED AND CHOPPED): These little gems pack a mighty punch of flavor and add vibrant color to the dish.
- 1 tsp SMOKED PAPRIKA: Adds a hint of smokiness and warmth.
- 1 tsp DRIED ITALIAN SEASONING: For that classic Italian flavor profile everyone loves.
- ½ LB (8 oz) PENNE PASTA: The perfect vehicle for soaking up all that creamy sauce!
- FRESH BASIL, CHOPPED (FOR GARNISH): A lovely finishing touch to brighten up the dish.
Substitutions and Tips
Need a swap? If you want to switch things up, here are a few ideas:
- Chicken Breast: You can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier flavor, though they’ll require a slightly longer cooking time.
- Heavy Cream: Swap in half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though it won’t be quite as rich.
- Pasta Type: Feel free to use any pasta you have on hand—fettuccine, bowtie, or even gluten-free varieties will work beautifully.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If you’re not a fan, roasted red peppers can offer a different yet delightful taste.
Practical Tips:
- Don’t rush when sautéing your garlic; you want it fragrant but not burnt.
- Make sure to drain your pasta just before tossing it in the sauce to keep it perfectly al dente!
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet (12 inches preferred)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Medium pot for cooking pasta
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater (for fresh parmesan)
- Tongs (for tossing pasta)
How to Make The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Let’s dive into creating this dreamy, creamy dish! I’ve broken down the process into simple steps, so follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. We’re aiming for a succulent chicken nestled in a velvety sauce, perfectly coating each piece of pasta.
Sear for Golden Crust
First, season your chopped chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken and sear until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove it from the skillet and set aside. This step is key, as it locks in all the chicken’s juices!
Sauté Aromatics for Flavor Base
Now, let’s build flavor! In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. You really want to make sure those garlic notes shine through in the sauce.
Build the Creamy Sauce
Next, sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to cook it out. Gradually pour in the chicken broth followed by the heavy cream, whisking to ensure there are no lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens nicely—this is where the magic happens!
Add Depth with Flavor Ingredients
Now it’s time to level up that sauce! Stir in the parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the creamy goodness. Then, incorporate the sun-dried tomatoes, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for a few minutes so all those flavors meld beautifully.
Return Chicken to Sauce
Once the sauce is looking gorgeous, return the seared chicken to the skillet. Let it simmer in the sauce for a touch—this helps the chicken soak up all that delicious flavor. Meanwhile, cook your penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it and set aside.
Toss in the Pasta for Perfection
Finally, toss the cooked pasta into the creamy sauce mixture. Give it a good stir to ensure everything is well-coated. This is the moment everything comes together, and you’ll be amazed at how simple yet elegant it looks!
Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh basil for that aromatic finishing touch, and serve immediately while hot and creamy. Honestly, this dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the pan!
How to Store The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This dish tends to be at its best right after cooking, but if you do have some leftovers, don’t fret! You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’re looking to freeze it, it should hold well for 2-3 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently in the skillet or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if it needs a little revitalization!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. They elevate the dish’s flavor!
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing the chicken; this ensures a nice crust.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as you go—each ingredient brings its own character!
- Don’t forget to save some pasta water before draining; it can help adjust sauce consistency if needed!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing balance.
- A garlic bread on the side is fantastic for soaking up that creamy sauce!
- A glass of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the dish beautifully.
- Garnish with additional freshly grated parmesan for an extra treat!
- Serve it in a beautiful dish to impress your dinner guests.
I truly hope you enjoy making and savoring The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta as much as I do! It’s more than just a meal—it’s a heartfelt way to connect with those we love. Happy cooking!
