Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a mouthwatering fusion of tender chicken pieces, flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. The name comes from its irresistible flavor—so delicious it might just win someone’s heart! This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to impress with minimal effort. Combining the best of Italian and American cuisines, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner or simply treating yourself, this dish brings together comfort, flavor, and simplicity. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect meal to satisfy any craving for creamy, savory goodness.

Ingredients:
(Serves 4)

• 8 oz dried pasta of your choice (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni works well)
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup onion, finely chopped
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Tablespoon butter
• 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ teaspoon EACH of the following: Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Prepare your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the butter to the skillet, followed by the chicken pieces. Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Let the mixture simmer until it thickens into a creamy sauce (about 5 minutes).
5. Incorporate the Tomatoes and Pasta: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
6. Serve and Garnish: Transfer the pasta to plates, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve hot.

Cooking Tips:

• Choice of Pasta: Penne or rigatoni works best as their ridges hold onto the creamy sauce. However, feel free to use your favorite pasta.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can use sun-dried tomatoes that are packed in oil rather than the dry variety.
• Customizable Protein: You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
• Perfect Seasoning: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes depending on your spice tolerance. This dish can be as mild or spicy as you like.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Protein: Chicken breasts provide a lean source of protein, making this meal both filling and nutritious.
• Calcium: The Parmesan cheese and heavy cream offer a good amount of calcium, essential for bone health.
• Healthy Fats: Olive oil and sun-dried tomatoes offer a dose of heart-healthy fats and antioxidants.
• Vitamins: The tomatoes and garlic add vitamins C and K, while the basil leaves are a good source of vitamin A.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and Easy: It’s a 30-minute meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
• Comfort Food: Rich, creamy, and satisfying, this pasta is perfect for comfort dining.
• Customizable: You can easily switch up ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Perfect for Entertaining: The dish is elegant enough to impress guests while being simple enough for weeknight cooking.

Dietary Information:

• Halal: Suitable for a Halal diet when made with Halal-certified chicken and ingredients.
• Nut-Free: This recipe contains no nuts, making it safe for those with nut allergies.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or your favorite meatless alternative for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Why This Recipe Works:

The balance of flavors in this dish—tender chicken, aromatic garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and the velvety Parmesan cream sauce—makes it irresistible. The Italian seasoning and smoked paprika add layers of complexity to the dish, while the heavy cream binds it all together into a rich, indulgent experience. The pasta acts as the perfect vehicle for soaking up all that delicious sauce, making each bite memorable.

Conclusion:

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a go-to recipe when you’re in the mood for something rich, flavorful, and satisfying. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s a versatile dish that you can adjust to your liking. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or feeding your family, this recipe guarantees a heartwarming meal that’s sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s a great dish for busy nights when you still want something special on the table!

Enjoy this creamy delight and share the love one plate at a time!

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