Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Introduction

If you’re looking to impress your significant other or simply indulge in a comforting and flavorful meal, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish to serve. This creamy, savory pasta with tender chicken and a rich sauce will surely win over anyone’s heart. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers a balance of flavors and textures that are nothing short of extraordinary.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
4. Add the Cheese and Season: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using), allowing it to melt into the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or cheese if needed.
5. Combine Chicken and Pasta: Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss the pasta in the skillet, ensuring it is well coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce needs thinning, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
6. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips:

• Serving: Serve the Marry Me Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs. Pair it with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture.

Variations:

• Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
• Spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Different Pasta: Switch up the pasta shape according to your preference, such as rigatoni, linguine, or bowtie pasta.
• Cheese: Add other cheeses like mozzarella or cream cheese to adjust the creaminess and flavor of the sauce.

FAQ:

Q: Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Simply reheat the sauce and combine with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.

Q: Is there a substitute for heavy cream? A: You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be less rich. To make it thicker, you can add a little flour or cornstarch.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken? A: Yes, using pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, will save time. Just shred or chop it and add it to the sauce during the final steps.

Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free? A: Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure the Dijon mustard and chicken broth are gluten-free.