Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

I’ll never forget the first time I made this marry me chicken pasta. It was a chilly evening, and I needed something comforting yet impressive. This top dinner recipe became my secret for creating magical moments in the kitchen.

This dish is so delicious, it could spark a romantic connection. The marry me chicken pasta is more than a meal. It’s an experience with tender chicken, a rich sun-dried tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, all in under 30 minutes.

This recipe has turned many ordinary dinners into special culinary adventures. Whether you’re cooking for someone special or treating yourself, this dish will make your home cooking stand out. Its irresistible flavors and simple preparation are sure to impress.

Key Takeaways

• Prepared in approximately 30 minutes
• Serves 6-8 people
• Combines creamy sauce with tender chicken
• Perfect for romantic dinners or family meals
• Adaptable to various dietary preferences

The Story Behind Marry Me Chicken Pasta

In 2016, Delish’s team created a recipe that would soon be a hit. This dish, known as marry me chicken, won the hearts of many in the U.S.

Origins of the Name

The name “Marry Me Chicken” came from its magical effect. People say it’s so tasty, it might even lead to proposals!

• Developed by Delish editors in 2016
• Became a viral recipe within months
• Featured in The New York Times in 2023

Why This Recipe Became Famous

I became intrigued by its popularity. Its simple yet rich flavor made it a favorite for romantic dinners.

What Makes It Special

The dish’s unique flavor mix is what makes it stand out. Sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and seasoned chicken come together for a dish that’s both impressive and easy to make.

• Takes only 35 minutes to prepare
• Uses two large garlic cloves for balanced flavor
• Includes 1/2 cup of heavy cream for creamy texture

This dish has become more than food. It’s a way to bring people together and maybe even spark romance.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Dish

To make the ultimate resep pasta, you need the right ingredients. These ingredients turn a simple meal into a work of art. Let’s explore what makes this pastas recipe so irresistible.

Protein Selection

The main ingredient is high-quality chicken breasts. Choose fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts that weigh about 1 pound. The chicken should be tender and without any discoloration for the best taste.

Pasta Perfection

Penne pasta is the best choice for this recipe. It holds the creamy sauce perfectly. We’ll use 14 ounces of pasta for the perfect sauce-to-noodle ratio.

Sauce Ingredients

• Heavy Cream: 1.5 cups for a luxurious texture
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: 0.5 cups
• Sun-dried tomatoes: ⅔ cup for tangy depth
• Garlic: 6 cloves, minced

Nutritional Breakdown

These ingredients come together to create a dish with unforgettable flavors. Each part is important for the dish’s rich, creamy texture and complex taste.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

Making a quick dinner like Marry Me Chicken Pasta doesn’t need fancy kitchen tools. The right tools make cooking easier and more fun. I’ll show you the must-have cookware and accessories for this tasty meal.

Must-Have Cookware

For this easy pasta dinner, you’ll need a few important pieces:

• Large high-quality skillet or deep pot (12-inch recommended)
• Sharp chef’s knife for cutting chicken
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula

Optional Cooking Accessories

These accessories can make your cooking better for this fast dinner:

• Garlic press
• Zester for adding fresh herbs
• Kitchen tongs
• Cheese grater

Measurement Tools

Getting the measurements right is key for perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Here are the tools you’ll need:

Having these tools ready makes cooking stress-free. The right equipment can make your Marry Me Chicken Pasta a true culinary delight!

Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Step-by-Step Recipe

Making this tasty marry me chicken pasta is simple. It turns basic ingredients into a top-notch meal in 30 minutes. Follow these steps to make your dish perfect.

1. Chicken Preparation
   • Season 1.5 pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning
   • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet
   • Cook chicken for 6-8 minutes until no longer pink
   • Remove chicken and set aside
2. Sauce Creation
   • In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter
   • Add 2 teaspoons minced garlic
   • Sprinkle 3 tablespoons flour
   • Gradually whisk in 2 cups chicken broth
   • Pour 1 cup heavy cream
   • Stir in 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
3. Pasta and Final Assembly
   • Cook 10 ounces penne pasta according to package instructions
   • Drain pasta
   • Add chicken back to the sauce
   • Mix in 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes
   • Combine pasta with chicken and creamy sauce

Your marry me chicken pasta is now ready to wow everyone! This quick recipe makes a meal that’s sure to get seconds.

Creating the Signature Creamy Sauce

Making the perfect sauce is key to a memorable resep pasta. For our Marry Me Chicken Pasta, the sauce makes this dish unforgettable. It’s a top dinner recipe that will delight your taste buds.

Base Sauce Preparation

I begin by melting butter in a large skillet. This creates a rich base for our sauce. Using 1½ tablespoons of butter and 1½ tablespoons of flour makes a smooth roux. This ensures our sauce is creamy and holds together well.

Adding the Perfect Seasonings

The magic happens when I add the flavor builders:

• 2 minced garlic cloves
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese

Achieving the Right Consistency

To get the perfect sauce consistency, I whisk in:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 400 ml chicken stock
• 1 tablespoon tomato purée
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

The result is a velvety sauce that clings to the pasta. This makes the resep pasta a standout among top dinner recipes. Simmer the sauce for 8-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend and the texture to become creamy.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken and Pasta

Making a great easy pasta dinner is all about mastering a few key cooking techniques. When you’re making Marry Me Chicken Pasta, paying close attention to detail can make all the difference. It can turn a good dish into an amazing one.

For the chicken, here are some essential tips:

• Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C)
• Cut chicken breasts into 1-2 inch pieces for even cooking
• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to achieve a perfect golden-brown sear
• Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes until it develops a beautiful caramelized exterior

Pasta perfection is just as important in this dish. Here are my top recommendations:

• Cook pasta until al dente – typically 11-12 minutes
• Reserve some pasta water to help create a silky sauce
• Drain pasta immediately to prevent overcooking
• Rinse pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process

Timing is key when making this restaurant-quality easy pasta dinner. Make sure to coordinate your chicken cooking and pasta boiling. This way, everything will come together perfectly.

By following these expert tips, you’ll make a Marry Me Chicken Pasta that will impress everyone. It will become one of your go-to pastas recipes.

Customization Options and Variations

Every favorite recipes dinner deserves some flexibility, and my marry me chicken pasta is no exception! This dish is adaptable. You can change it to fit your dietary needs or flavor preferences.

Let’s explore how you can personalize this delicious marry me chicken pasta to make it uniquely yours.

Protein Alternatives

Not a chicken fan? No worries! You can easily swap out the protein with these delicious options:

• Succulent shrimp
• Tender tofu
• Hearty portobello mushrooms
• Ground turkey
• Plant-based chicken alternatives

Pasta Choice Variations

The pasta world is your oyster! Different shapes can dramatically change your dining experience:

• Penne for a classic bite
• Rigatoni for extra sauce-holding power
• Chickpea pasta for added protein
• Zucchini noodles for a low-carb option
• Whole wheat pasta for extra nutrition

Dietary Modifications

I’ve got you covered with these smart swaps:

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles
• Dairy-free: Replace cream with coconut milk
• Low-calorie: Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream
• Low-carb: Substitute pasta with cauliflower rice

Remember, the key is to have fun and experiment with your favorite recipes dinner. These variations ensure everyone can enjoy a delicious marry me chicken pasta that fits their dietary needs!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

After enjoying your delicious Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you’ll want to know the best ways to store and reheat this easy pasta dinner. Proper storage helps maintain the incredible flavors and creamy texture that make this dish so special.

Refrigerator Storage Guidelines

I recommend storing your leftover fast dinner in an airtight container. The dish will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To preserve the best quality, follow these key storage tips:

• Cool the pasta completely before storing
• Use a sealed container with a tight-fitting lid
• Store in the coldest part of your refrigerator

Reheating Methods

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, I’ve found two reliable reheating techniques that help maintain the dish’s creamy texture:

1. Stovetop Method: Reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally
2. Microwave Method: Heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring between each

Pro tip: Add a splash of heavy cream (about 1/4 cup) while reheating to refresh the sauce and prevent drying out.

Remember, while this easy pasta dinner tastes best fresh, these storage techniques ensure you can still enjoy a delicious meal even on busy nights!

Conclusion

I’ve shared the secrets of this amazing fast dinner recipe. It’s sure to win hearts in any kitchen. The marry me chicken pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that makes weeknight cooking special.

The recipe combines herbs like oregano and thyme with a rich creamy sauce. This sauce is made with 1 cup of heavy cream. It takes you on a culinary journey that’s both easy and impressive.

From sautéing to browning chicken in 4-5 minutes, we’ve covered cooking techniques. These ensure your dish will taste like it came from a restaurant.

Cooking this recipe is perfect for a romantic dinner or a treat for yourself. It’s quick, with only 30 minutes of cooking time. You’ll use simple ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil to make a meal that’s both healthy and delicious.

My last tip? Make the recipe your own. Try adding garlic bread or grilled vegetables. Let your creativity show. The beauty of marry me chicken pasta is its flexibility and ability to bring people together through great food.