Hey y’all! If there’s one dish you should have in your culinary arsenal, it’s this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s creamy, savory, and bursting with flavor, making it the ideal dish for everything from a cozy night in to a dinner party with friends. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and the compliments you’ll receive. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce.
- Packed with flavors that the whole family will love.
- Impressive enough for special occasions but simple for everyday meals.
- Customizable with your favorite pasta and veggies.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 pound pasta of your choice
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Directions
Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, thyme, and oregano. Simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Cook the Pasta
In a separate pot, cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
Combine and Serve
Add the pasta and chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency, if needed. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Notes
- For a creamier sauce, use freshly grated Parmesan. Learn more about making creamy pasta sauces.
- Sun-dried tomatoes can be substituted with fresh cherry tomatoes for a lighter flavor.
- Adjust the spice level by adding red pepper flakes.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Omit chicken and add mushrooms.
- Spicy: Include red pepper flakes for heat.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta options.
Required Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pasta pot
- Wooden spoon
- Chef’s knife
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Suggested Pairings
Pair this dish with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A chilled glass of white wine complements the flavors beautifully.
Pro Tips
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best creamy texture. Learn more about cheese.
- Let the chicken rest before slicing to retain juices.
- Always reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, Romano or Asiago can also add depth to the dish.
- Is this dish freezer-friendly? Cream-based sauces do not freeze well, but you can freeze the chicken separately.
- How can I make it healthier? Replace heavy cream with half-and-half and use whole wheat pasta.