Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Creamy, rich, and packed with bold flavor, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a swoon-worthy dish that’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough for date nights. Tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and pasta are tossed in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce that’s so good, it might just earn you a marriage proposal!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ultra Creamy – Silky sauce clings beautifully to every bite of pasta.
Bold Flavor – Sun-dried tomatoes and garlic add richness and depth.
Easy to Make – Ready in under 40 minutes.
Restaurant-Quality – Tastes gourmet without the fuss.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Family dinners, date nights, or special celebrations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce and Pasta:

• 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed and drained)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
• 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
• Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish

Optional Add-ins:

• Mushrooms, sautéed
• Extra parmesan for topping
• Lemon zest for brightness

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Pot for cooking pasta
• Tongs or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup pasta water.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Season chicken with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium.
Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes; sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Add parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
Simmer for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Finish the Dish
Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
Slice the chicken and add it back into the skillet.
Stir in baby spinach if using and cook just until wilted.
If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Serve
Garnish with chopped fresh basil and extra parmesan.
Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Tips for Success
Pound the Chicken Evenly – Ensures quick and even cooking.
Use Good Parmesan – Freshly grated cheese melts better into the sauce.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Aim for al dente to keep the texture perfect.
Reserve Pasta Water – A splash can help thin and smooth the sauce if needed.
Taste and Adjust – Always taste your sauce and tweak seasoning before serving.

Serving Suggestions
With Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
With a Side Salad – A crisp green salad balances the richness.
With Roasted Vegetables – Add roasted broccoli or asparagus for extra greens.
With a Glass of White Wine – Pair with Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing:
Not recommended, as cream sauces can separate when thawed.

Reheating:
Skillet: Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between to keep the sauce creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes! Thighs stay juicy and add extra flavor.
2. Can I use milk instead of cream?
   You can, but the sauce will be thinner. Half-and-half is a better substitute.
3. Is this recipe spicy?
   Only slightly if you add red pepper flakes; adjust to taste.
4. Can I make this vegetarian?
   Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option.
5. Can I add more veggies?
   Definitely! Broccoli, mushrooms, or zucchini would be delicious additions.

Final Thoughts
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is creamy, rich, and packed with irresistible flavor—perfect for any night you want to impress someone (or just treat yourself!). It’s the kind of cozy, luxurious meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Cook up a skillet tonight and get ready for compliments! Don’t forget to share your Marry Me Chicken Pasta creations online!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – serves 4):
Calories: 530 | Protein: 32g | Carbohydrates: 36g | Fat: 29g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 580mg

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