Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe: One Pot Delight

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Introduction: A Culinary Sensation That Will Steal Your Heart

The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe has become a culinary sensation, captivating taste buds and hearts alike. This one-pot delight combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce that’s simply irresistible. The dish’s playful name hints at its ability to impress, making it perfect for special occasions or elevating your everyday meals.

Originating from the popular “Marry Me Chicken” recipe, this pasta version takes the concept to new heights. The addition of pasta transforms it into a complete meal that’s both comforting and elegant. Its popularity has soared among home cooks and food enthusiasts, thanks to its delectable flavors and relatively simple preparation.

What makes this dish truly special is its versatility. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a food enthusiast planning a romantic date night, the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe fits the bill perfectly. Its creamy sauce, infused with the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and aromatic herbs, creates a harmonious blend that’s hard to resist.

As food trends continue to evolve, dishes like the Marry Me Chicken Pasta have gained significant traction. According to The Spruce Eats’ report on food trends, creative naming and fusion dishes have become increasingly popular, appealing to both the palate and social media shareability.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to create this mouthwatering dish. Whether you’re cooking to impress or simply satisfying your craving for a delicious meal, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Culinary Magic

To create the perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s essential to gather high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in developing the rich flavors and creamy texture that make this dish so memorable. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

  • 1-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (preferably extra virgin)

For the Pasta:

  • 10-12 ounces of penne, rigatoni, or fusilli pasta
  • Salt for pasta water

For the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce:

  • 3-4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2-3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1-2 cups chicken broth
  • 1-1.5 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 to 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor:

  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (for a spicy kick)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for depth of flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon honey (to balance flavors)
  • 2 cups packed fresh spinach
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

The star ingredient in this recipe is undoubtedly the sun-dried tomatoes. These intensely flavored morsels add a unique depth to the dish. If you’re curious about the process of making sun-dried tomatoes and their culinary uses, check out this informative article from Epicurious on sun-dried tomatoes.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations:

To accommodate different dietary needs or preferences, consider these substitutions:

Original IngredientPossible Substitution
Heavy creamCoconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option
Parmesan cheeseNutritional yeast for a vegan alternative
ChickenFirm tofu or seitan for a vegetarian version
All-purpose flourGluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free dish

With these ingredients at hand, you’re ready to embark on a culinary journey that promises to delight your taste buds and perhaps even win a few hearts along the way.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Instructions: Crafting Your Marry Me Chicken Pasta Masterpiece

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this mouthwatering Marry Me Chicken Pasta. The recipe is designed to be straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Follow these instructions carefully, and you’ll soon be savoring a dish that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

  1. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet, ensuring the pieces are in a single layer.
  4. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside, covering to keep warm.

Step 2: Cooking the Pasta

  1. While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add your chosen pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli) to the boiling water.
  3. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until it reaches al dente consistency.
  4. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water.
  5. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Creating the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce

  1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 3-4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle 2-3 tablespoons of flour over the garlic and butter, stirring constantly to create a roux.
  4. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
  5. Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the skillet, stirring to combine with the roux.
  6. Gradually pour in 1-2 cups of chicken broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
  7. Slowly add 1-1.5 cups of heavy cream or half-and-half, continuing to whisk.
  8. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
  9. Add 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and incorporated.

Step 4: Seasoning the Sauce

  1. Add 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1/4 teaspoon dried basil to the sauce.
  2. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  3. If using, add optional ingredients like hot sauce, Dijon mustard, or honey for extra flavor complexity.
  4. Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combining the Elements

  1. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
  2. If using, add 2 cups of fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring until it wilts into the sauce.
  3. Gently fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring it’s well-coated with the creamy sauce.
  4. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Step 6: Final Touches

  1. Let the dish simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  3. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
  4. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

“The secret to a great Marry Me Chicken Pasta lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy sauce should coat each piece of pasta and chicken, creating a harmonious blend that’s simply irresistible.”

By following these steps, you’ll create a Marry Me Chicken Pasta that’s sure to impress. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and the rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce creates a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or treating yourself to a delicious meal, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

For more inspiration on creating memorable pasta dishes, you might want to explore our collection of Ditalini pasta recipes, which offers a variety of creative ways to prepare this versatile pasta shape.

Tips and Variations: Elevating Your Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Now that you’ve mastered the basic Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe, let’s explore some tips and variations to help you customize and perfect this dish. These suggestions will allow you to adapt the recipe to your preferences and make it uniquely yours.

Choosing the Right Pasta Shape

While the recipe suggests penne, rigatoni, or fusilli, you can experiment with different pasta shapes to find your favorite. Here are some considerations:

  • Penne: Its tubular shape holds sauce well, making each bite flavorful.
  • Rigatoni: Larger and ridged, it’s excellent for catching chunks of chicken and sun-dried tomatoes.
  • Fusilli: Its spiral shape creates pockets for the sauce, ensuring a perfect sauce-to-pasta ratio.
  • Farfalle: Bow-tie pasta adds a whimsical touch, perfect for special occasions.
  • Orecchiette: These “little ears” cradle the sauce beautifully.

Adding Heat to Your Dish

If you enjoy a spicy kick, consider these options:

  • Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat.
  • Incorporate diced jalapeños or calabrian chili peppers for a bolder flavor.
  • Use spicy Italian sausage instead of or in addition to chicken for a different twist.

Vegetable Additions

Boost the nutritional value and add extra texture with these vegetables:

  • Sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
  • Roasted bell peppers for sweetness and color.
  • Artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean touch.
  • Grilled zucchini or eggplant for a smoky flavor.

Protein Variations

While chicken is the star of this dish, you can experiment with other proteins:

  • Grilled shrimp for a seafood version.
  • Italian sausage for a richer, more robust flavor.
  • Pan-seared tofu for a vegetarian option.
  • Sliced grilled steak for a heartier meal.

Cheese Alternatives

Parmesan cheese adds depth to the sauce, but you can try these alternatives:

  • Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier taste.
  • Asiago for a nuttier flavor profile.
  • Goat cheese for a tangy twist.
  • A blend of Italian cheeses for complex flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

To save time or prepare for future meals:

  • Cook the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator.
  • Cook the pasta just before serving to maintain its texture.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce.

“The beauty of the Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe lies in its adaptability. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Sometimes, the most delightful culinary discoveries come from unexpected twists on classic recipes.”

Remember, cooking is an art as much as it is a science. Feel free to adjust ingredients and proportions to suit your taste preferences. The key is to maintain the balance of flavors that makes this dish so special.

For more inspiration on creating delicious pasta dishes, you might want to check out our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe, which offers another delightful variation on chicken and pasta combinations.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta RecipeBig Mac Sloppy Joesmississippi mud potatoes

Instructions: Crafting Your Marry Me Chicken Pasta Masterpiece

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this mouthwatering Marry Me Chicken Pasta. The recipe is designed to be straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Follow these instructions carefully, and you’ll soon be savoring a dish that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

  1. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet, ensuring the pieces are in a single layer.
  4. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside, covering to keep warm.

Step 2: Cooking the Pasta

  1. While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add your chosen pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli) to the boiling water.
  3. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until it reaches al dente consistency.
  4. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water.
  5. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Creating the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce

  1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 3-4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle 2-3 tablespoons of flour over the garlic and butter, stirring constantly to create a roux.
  4. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
  5. Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the skillet, stirring to combine with the roux.
  6. Gradually pour in 1-2 cups of chicken broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
  7. Slowly add 1-1.5 cups of heavy cream or half-and-half, continuing to whisk.
  8. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
  9. Add 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and incorporated.

Step 4: Seasoning the Sauce

  1. Add 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1/4 teaspoon dried basil to the sauce.
  2. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  3. If using, add optional ingredients like hot sauce, Dijon mustard, or honey for extra flavor complexity.
  4. Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combining the Elements

  1. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
  2. If using, add 2 cups of fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring until it wilts into the sauce.
  3. Gently fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring it’s well-coated with the creamy sauce.
  4. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Step 6: Final Touches

  1. Let the dish simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  3. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
  4. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

“The secret to a great Marry Me Chicken Pasta lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy sauce should coat each piece of pasta and chicken, creating a harmonious blend that’s simply irresistible.”

By following these steps, you’ll create a Marry Me Chicken Pasta that’s sure to impress. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and the rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce creates a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or treating yourself to a delicious meal, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

For more inspiration on creating memorable pasta dishes, you might want to explore our collection of Ditalini pasta recipes, which offers a variety of creative ways to prepare this versatile pasta shape.

Tips and Variations: Elevating Your Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Now that you’ve mastered the basic Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe, let’s explore some tips and variations to help you customize and perfect this dish. These suggestions will allow you to adapt the recipe to your preferences and make it uniquely yours.

Choosing the Right Pasta Shape

While the recipe suggests penne, rigatoni, or fusilli, you can experiment with different pasta shapes to find your favorite. Here are some considerations:

  • Penne: Its tubular shape holds sauce well, making each bite flavorful.
  • Rigatoni: Larger and ridged, it’s excellent for catching chunks of chicken and sun-dried tomatoes.
  • Fusilli: Its spiral shape creates pockets for the sauce, ensuring a perfect sauce-to-pasta ratio.
  • Farfalle: Bow-tie pasta adds a whimsical touch, perfect for special occasions.
  • Orecchiette: These “little ears” cradle the sauce beautifully.

Adding Heat to Your Dish

If you enjoy a spicy kick, consider these options:

  • Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat.
  • Incorporate diced jalapeños or calabrian chili peppers for a bolder flavor.
  • Use spicy Italian sausage instead of or in addition to chicken for a different twist.

Vegetable Additions

Boost the nutritional value and add extra texture with these vegetables:

  • Sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
  • Roasted bell peppers for sweetness and color.
  • Artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean touch.
  • Grilled zucchini or eggplant for a smoky flavor.

Protein Variations

While chicken is the star of this dish, you can experiment with other proteins:

  • Grilled shrimp for a seafood version.
  • Italian sausage for a richer, more robust flavor.
  • Pan-seared tofu for a vegetarian option.
  • Sliced grilled steak for a heartier meal.

Cheese Alternatives

Parmesan cheese adds depth to the sauce, but you can try these alternatives:

  • Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier taste.
  • Asiago for a nuttier flavor profile.
  • Goat cheese for a tangy twist.
  • A blend of Italian cheeses for complex flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

To save time or prepare for future meals:

  • Cook the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator.
  • Cook the pasta just before serving to maintain its texture.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce.

“The beauty of the Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe lies in its adaptability. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Sometimes, the most delightful culinary discoveries come from unexpected twists on classic recipes.”

Remember, cooking is an art as much as it is a science. Feel free to adjust ingredients and proportions to suit your taste preferences. The key is to maintain the balance of flavors that makes this dish so special.

For more inspiration on creating delicious pasta dishes, you might want to check out our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe, which offers another delightful variation on chicken and pasta combinations.

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