Why Make This Recipe
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that blends tender chicken, creamy sauce, and delicious pasta. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal. The flavors meld together beautifully, making it a crowd-pleaser.
With its rich taste and heartwarming ingredients, this recipe may make you feel like you’ve fallen in love all over again. Plus, it’s a straightforward recipe that doesn’t require advanced cooking skills.
Equipment Needed for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
To create this fantastic dish, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools. First, a large skillet is essential for cooking the chicken and preparing the sauce. A pot is necessary to boil the pasta. A set of measuring spoons will help you get the spices just right.
Make sure you have a sharp knife for chopping the shallots and sundried tomatoes. Lastly, keep a wooden spoon and a pasta strainer handy for mixing and draining the pasta.
What You Need to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast
- 16 oz bowtie pasta
- 2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoon flour
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 cups chicken stock
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup sundried tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 shallot
How to Cook Marry Me Chicken Pasta Step by Step
Start by preparing the chicken. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This seasoning will enhance the flavor of the chicken. Once mixed, season the chicken breasts with this mixture and set them aside.
While the chicken is resting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. This water is for cooking the pasta. Check the pasta package for the cooking time and prepare accordingly.
Once your water is boiling, add the bowtie pasta. Cook according to the package directions until it reaches the desired tenderness.
Now, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook one side for about 5 minutes. You want a nice golden color to form.
After 5 minutes, carefully flip the chicken over. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to keep warm.
In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Next, add the sliced shallot to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until the shallots become soft and fragrant.
Next, sprinkle flour over the shallots and stir to coat them. This step helps to create a thicker sauce.
Gently add the chicken stock, one cup at a time, stirring continuously. This process helps the sauce to thicken. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it reaches the right consistency.
Now it’s time to add the sundried tomatoes and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir these ingredients in, allowing their flavors to meld together.
Once combined, turn off the heat. Slowly stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
After the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet. Toss well to combine everything, ensuring the pasta is covered in the creamy sauce.
Finally, slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the pasta. This dish is ready to serve and enjoy!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Making Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a straightforward process. Start by seasoning the chicken well. Use a spice mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for the best flavor.
Cooking the chicken to the right temperature is crucial. Take your time, so it doesn’t dry out. While the chicken cooks, get the pasta going in boiling water.
After cooking the chicken, the shallot brings a burst of flavor to the dish, creating a perfect base for the sauce. Remember to stir the flour well to avoid lumps in your sauce.
When adding the cream and cheese, do it slowly. This will give you a silky smooth sauce, enhancing the overall dish. Finally, don’t forget to mix the pasta in thoroughly for even coating.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta hot straight from the pan. You can add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top for a nice finishing touch.
Garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or a few basil leaves will enhance the presentation. This small detail adds color and freshness to the dish, appealing to the eyes as much as the palate.
Consider serving with a side salad to balance out the meal. A light Caesar or mixed greens salad can be excellent accompaniments.
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Pair Marry Me Chicken Pasta with fresh Italian bread or garlic bread for dipping in the creamy sauce. This combination will surely elevate your dining experience.
For a more robust meal, consider serving roasted vegetables. They add great flavor and nutrients to the plate.
A light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the richness of the chicken and sauce well.
How to Store Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. You may need to add a splash of chicken stock or cream to loosen the sauce.
If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. Use freezer-safe containers and it can last for about 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best flavor. Fresh herbs and quality chicken make a noticeable difference.
Don’t rush the cooking times; give the chicken enough time to cook thoroughly to avoid dryness.
If you like a thicker sauce, you can increase the amount of flour or reduce the chicken stock slightly.
Variation
You can easily customize Marry Me Chicken Pasta by adding vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers. They not only add nutrition but also a vibrant color to the dish.
If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. This alteration still provides a creamy texture while cutting down on calories.
Best Time to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This recipe is excellent for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special date night, it’s always a hit.
It’s particularly popular around holidays like Valentine’s Day or anniversaries. Surprise your loved one with this dish for a romantic gesture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is not seasoning the chicken enough. Don’t be shy with spices as they make a big difference in taste.
Also, be careful not to overcook the pasta. It should be al dente to avoid becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Ensure that the sauce is stirred well while adding the chicken stock to avoid lumps. This step is essential for a smooth, creamy sauce.
Nutritional Notes
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a hearty dish that combines protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the pasta. The addition of sundried tomatoes adds a burst of flavor while contributing just a bit of sweetness.
Consider the serving sizes when calculating nutrition. This dish can be filling, so smaller portions may be appropriate for lighter meals.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute bowtie pasta with penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead. Combine everything before serving for the best results.
Is it okay to use frozen chicken?
Yes, but ensure that you thaw it fully before cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delicious and easy meal that can make any dinner special. Its creamy sauce and flavorful ingredients are sure to impress anyone.
Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or enjoying a comforting meal at home, this dish is sure to satisfy. Embrace the love and warmth that cooking can bring with this delightful recipe!
