If you’ve ever wanted to impress someone with your cooking, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the recipe for you. Creamy, savory, and packed with bold flavors, this dish has become famous for its ability to charm even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a special date, a family dinner, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Let’s explore everything you need to know to make this stunning dish, from ingredients to expert tips for achieving perfection.
Why It’s Called “Marry Me” Chicken Pasta
The name alone sparks curiosity, doesn’t it? The story goes that this dish is so delicious, it could inspire a marriage proposal. While it may be a playful exaggeration, there’s no denying that the rich, creamy sauce paired with tender chicken and pasta is love at first bite. It’s comfort food elevated to gourmet status, yet simple enough for anyone to make.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this irresistible dish. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating layers of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 2 lbs |
| Bowtie pasta | 16 oz |
| Salt | 2 tsp |
| Pepper | 1 tsp |
| Garlic powder | 2 tsp |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Flour | 2 tbsp |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup |
| Chicken stock | 2 cups |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Sundried tomatoes | 1/2 cup |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tbsp |
| Shallot (sliced) | 1 |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub this seasoning blend evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. This step ensures the chicken is flavorful in every bite.
2. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water just in case you need to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
3. Sear the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5 minutes on one side, without moving them.
- Flip the chicken over and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
4. Prepare the Sauce Base
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons butter.
- Once melted, toss in the sliced shallot and sauté for 1–2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons flour, stirring constantly to coat the shallots evenly. This will thicken the sauce.
5. Build the Creamy Sauce
- Gradually pour in chicken stock, one cup at a time, stirring well between additions to ensure the sauce thickens smoothly.
- Add sundried tomatoes and Italian seasoning, allowing the flavors to meld together for 2–3 minutes.
6. Finish the Sauce
Turn off the heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes luxuriously creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
7. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat each piece in the sauce.
- If the sauce seems too thick, use a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
8. Serve with Chicken
Slice the cooked chicken breasts and place them on top of the pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese for a final touch.
Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and quality sundried tomatoes make all the difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure your chicken stays juicy and tender.
- Customize the Pasta: While bowtie pasta is ideal, you can substitute it with penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Prep Ahead: Season the chicken and prepare the sauce base in advance for quicker assembly.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
FAQs About Marry Me Chicken Pasta
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
2. What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
3. Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! Swap chicken breast for chicken thighs, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.
4. Is there a gluten-free version?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or rice flour.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the sauce.
6. Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
While the pasta itself may not freeze well, you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s time to put your skills to the test. This dish is more than just a meal—it’s a way to show your love and creativity through cooking. Whether you’re impressing a date, feeding your family, or treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to win hearts.
So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and let the magic unfold in your kitchen. Once you’ve tried this recipe, don’t forget to share it with someone special—it just might lead to a proposal! 😊