Ever wondered why they call it “marry me chicken pasta”? After one bite of this creamy, savory dish, it’s clear—it’s the kind of meal that’s so good, it might just elicit a marriage proposal! It’s rich, loaded with flavors, and ridiculously easy to make. Let’s dive right into how you can bring this restaurant-quality dish into your kitchen.

Table of Contents

Recipe Overview

Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Total Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you start, make sure you have the following tools ready to help you make this marry me chicken pasta dish a knockout:

Large skillet
Large pot for pasta
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Chicken breasts	4 medium
Salt and black pepper	To taste
Olive oil	2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced	3 cloves
Heavy cream	1 cup
Chicken broth	½ cup
Sun-dried tomatoes	½ cup, chopped
Fresh basil	¼ cup, chopped
Parmesan cheese, grated	½ cup
Pasta (e.g., fettuccine)	400 grams

Did you know? The term “marry me chicken” is believed to have originated from its “proposal-worthy” taste and simplicity, making anyone able to master it at home!

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chicken to the skillet and cook until golden and no longer pink in the middle, about 5-7 minutes per side.
Remove chicken and set aside on a plate.

Keep your chicken moist by letting it rest after cooking before slicing it.

Step 2 – Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Pour in heavy cream, chicken broth, and sun-dried tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
Reduce heat and let simmer until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

The secret to a rich, creamy sauce is to simmer it slowly, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3 – Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and return to the pot.

Step 4 – Combine and Serve

Slice the rested chicken into strips.
Add the chicken and fresh basil to the sauce, tossing to combine.
Pour the sauce over the cooked pasta, tossing again to coat the pasta evenly.
Serve hot, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan if desired.

A perfect dish is all about the final presentation. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate your plate tremendously.

Additional Tips

For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with full-fat Greek yogurt.
Make sure to salt your pasta water—it’s the secret to flavorful pasta!

Pairing Suggestions

Marry me chicken pasta pairs wonderfully with:

A crisp, green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Garlic bread, perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per serving
Calories	650
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	75g
Fat	27g
Cholesterol	125mg
Sodium	780mg

Approximation Note: These nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient choices.

Dietary Information

This marry me chicken pasta recipe is a delightful treat for non-vegetarians. To adapt this dish for vegetarians, replace the chicken with grilled tofu or seitan, ensuring all the flavor with a plant-based twist!

FAQs about Marry Me Chicken Pasta

What makes marry me chicken pasta so good?

The combination of creamy sauce, hearty chicken, and robust flavors from the sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan make it irresistible.

Can I make marry me chicken pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time and simply reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

Are there any variations to marry me chicken pasta?

Absolutely! Try adding mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for an extra veggie boost.

What type of pasta is best with marry me chicken pasta?

Fettuccine or tagliatelle work best with creamy sauces due to their wider surface area.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta variety to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

Why is it called marry me chicken pasta?

It’s said that this dish is so delicious, serving it is akin to a marriage proposal due to its impressive flavors and easy execution!

Conclusion

This marry me chicken pasta recipe not only promises a meal that’s mouthwateringly delicious but also one that’s cloaked in romance and simplicity. Whether for a special occasion or a simple family dinner, it’s sure to impress.