The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta

The aroma of a savory chicken dish fills the air, weaving through my memories of family gatherings and cherished moments. A dish like Marry Me Chicken Pasta brings comfort and warmth, effortlessly capturing the essence of togetherness. My love for crafting simple yet delightful meals stems from evenings spent around the dining table, laughter mingling with the rich scents wafting from the kitchen.

As I prepared this dish for the first time, I felt the thrill of marrying flavors that not only satisfy but create lasting bonds. It’s no wonder that this Marry Me Chicken Pasta has become a favorite, celebrated for its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes. Each bite envelops you in rich taste, reminding us of the magic that happens when we share a meal with our loved ones.

Cooking isn’t just about following recipes—it’s about feeling inspired and embracing the joy of every ingredient. Discovering the beauty of this Marry Me Chicken Pasta means making a splash at mealtime, turning ordinary evenings into memorable celebrations. Let’s embark on this journey together to create something extraordinary.

The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Fundamentals

Marry Me Chicken Pasta boasts an exciting combination of flavors and textures sure to charm anyone. At its core, this dish begins with succulent chicken breast, seasoned to perfection, providing the ideal foundation. Salt and pepper enhance the natural flavors, inviting the other ingredients to shine through.

Embracing the magic of a delicious sauce elevates this dish. Rich and creamy, it ensnares elements like parmesan cheese, roasted garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes, each playing an important role. The smokiness of paprika and fragrant Italian seasoning add depth, while the fresh basil on top delivers a burst of color and a pleasant herbal note.

The choice of penne pasta offers the right amount of robustness to hold the sauce. Its ridges capture every bit of creaminess, ensuring that each forkful is just as satisfying as the last. This classic combination creates a flavorful experience that sings of love and culinary passion.

Preparation/Setup

Preparing Marry Me Chicken Pasta requires organization and a few simple steps to achieve perfection. First, gather all ingredients and tools before diving in. Having everything at hand makes the cooking process smoother, allowing for a better focus on flavors.

Start by cutting the chicken breast into slices or cubes. Season the pieces with salt and pepper, ensuring that every bite packs a flavorful punch. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle olive oil into the pan. This creates a sizzling base that is perfect for searing the chicken, providing that delightful golden crust.

As you sear the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes, resist the urge to overcrowd the pan. Items cook better when they have space to breathe. Let the chicken pieces get the chance to develop their flavor. Once cooked through, remove them from the skillet, giving you room to create the luscious sauce you’ll crave.

Ingredients

To make this delectable Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (sliced or cubed)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained and chopped)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• ½ lb (8 oz) penne pasta
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Begin by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once completed, remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the roux to develop.
5. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and then add in the heavy cream, whisking to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
6. Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until it melts seamlessly into the sauce.
7. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning to deepen the flavor profile. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes.
8. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, allowing it to simmer in the creamy sauce and absorb those delicious flavors. As this cooks, prepare the penne pasta according to package directions, aiming for al dente.
9. Drain the pasta and toss it into the chicken and sauce mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated and enriched with the creamy goodness.
10. Before serving, garnish the dish with chopped fresh basil for a finishing touch.

Choosing Techniques for Success

Technique

Mastering the preparation of Marry Me Chicken Pasta hinges on techniques that elevate the experience. Searing the chicken correctly ensures a beautifully browned surface while locking in moisture. The timing plays a crucial role; don’t rush the process. Intriguingly, the garlic should sauté only until fragrant—burning it will introduce bitterness.

The technique for creating a roux is pivotal in thickening sauces. Ensure that you whisk continuously as the flour cooks, which helps prevent lumps. Begin with low heat to avoid scorching the fat before adding liquids.

Tips/Tricks

Embrace the creamy texture of your sauce by slowly introducing the chicken broth and heavy cream. Always continue whisking, ensuring a silken finish. For the best results, incorporate the parmesan cheese off the heat; this prevents the cheese from clumping.

When preparing the pasta, reserve some pasta water, as it can be a valuable tool in adjusting the sauce’s consistency. A splash or two can help loosen it up if it thickens too much, providing a perfect coating for the penne.

Perfecting the Results

Perfecting Results

Flavor intensity is key in Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Experimenting with freshly grated parmesan cheese rather than pre-packaged options can create a noticeable difference in taste. Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully, enhancing the creaminess of the sauce.

Using sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil adds richness and complexity. If possible, consider selecting those packed in herbs for an added depth of flavor. Timing, as mentioned, makes a difference; don’t rush through the cooking process to seal in flavors effectively.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If the sauce becomes overly thick, simply thin it with chicken broth or reserved pasta water. Should the sauce be too thin, continue simmering it on low to allow it to reduce. Keep an eye on the chicken; if overcooked, it can turn dry. Ensuring it remains moist will ensure a perfect experience.

For variations, feel free to incorporate other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Just sauté them before making the sauce, adding them to the skillet to enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.

Serving and Storing

Serving/Presentation

Presentation enhances the dish and invites its flavors. Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta in shallow bowls to display the vibrant colors of the chicken and sauce beautifully. Scoop an extra pinch of freshly chopped basil over the top before serving to add freshness and color that draws the eye.

Consider accompanying it with a simple green salad or crusty bread to complement the meal. Gathering together for a dinner filled with love and laughter only amplifies the experience of enjoying this delightful pasta.

Pairings/Storage

This dish pairs generously with sides such as garlic bread or a vibrant side salad featuring fresh greens. These accompaniments enhance the overall meal while balancing the richness of the pasta.

When it comes to storage, leftovers of Marry Me Chicken Pasta keep well in sealed airtight containers. Refrigerate and enjoy them within a few days. Reheating is simple on the stovetop; just add a touch of cream or water to restore its creamy texture.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta unfolds as a dish enveloped in love and culinary comfort. It excels in bringing people together and transforming simple moments into cherished memories. With flavors that resonate and techniques that ensure success, each creation becomes a joyful celebration at the table.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Carnivore

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Description

A delightful chicken pasta dish with creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and rich flavors that brings comfort and warmth.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (sliced or cubed)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained and chopped)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• ½ lb (8 oz) penne pasta
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté minced garlic for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1 to 2 minutes to create a roux.
5. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking to prevent lumps. Stir until the sauce thickens.
6. Add freshly grated parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce.
7. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning, letting it simmer for a few minutes.
8. Return the seared chicken to the skillet to simmer in the sauce.
9. Prepare penne pasta according to package directions, aiming for al dente, then drain.
10. Toss the pasta into the chicken and sauce mixture until well-coated.
11. Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated parmesan cheese and reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Searing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Marry Me Chicken, Chicken Pasta, Italian Pasta, Comfort Food