Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Learn how to make the irresistible Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe in just 40 minutes. Creamy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken breasts or thighs – 2, boneless and skinless, for tender and juicy bites.
- Salt and pepper – To season the chicken perfectly before searing.
For the Sauce
- Garlic cloves – 3 minced to infuse the sauce with a fragrant, savory base.
- Sun-dried tomatoes – ½ cup finely chopped, adding tangy, sweet notes.
- Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon for a touch of herby goodness.
- Heavy cream – 1 cup to create that irresistibly creamy texture.
- Parmesan cheese – ¾ cup freshly grated for rich, nutty flavor.
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons for sautéing and adding depth to the sauce.
For the Pasta
- Pasta of choice – 8 oz fettuccine or penne works beautifully, cooked to al dente.
- Pasta water – ½ cup reserved to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
For Garnish
- Fresh basil – A handful thinly sliced, for a vibrant and aromatic finish.
- Extra Parmesan – Optional but highly recommended for serving.
Optional Add-Ins
- Red chili flakes – A pinch for those who like a little heat.
- Mushrooms – Sautéed for extra earthiness
Instructions
Prep the Chicken:
- Season: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then generously season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
- Sauté: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning, letting the flavors meld.
- Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to create a smooth base. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the grated Parmesan until melted and creamy.
Cook the Pasta:
- Boil: While the sauce is simmering, cook your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Combine Everything:
- Slice and Return: Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet with the sauce.
- Toss: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat every strand in the creamy sauce. If needed, stir in a bit of pasta water to adjust the consistency.
Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish: Top with freshly sliced basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.
- Serve: Dish out immediately and watch the magic happen as everyone takes their first bite!
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 540
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 34g