Marry Me Chicken Pasta -

Description of this recipe
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with al dente pasta, all enveloped in a rich and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. This recipe is perfect for a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal, offering a comforting blend of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why you will love this recipe
This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With its creamy sauce and perfectly seasoned chicken, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is guaranteed to impress your loved ones. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs creates a flavor profile that is both savory and satisfying. Plus, it can be made in under an hour, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Introduction
Imagine a meal so delectable that it could make anyone fall in love. Marry Me Chicken Pasta is that dish. This recipe brings together the best elements of Italian cuisine in a comforting and creamy pasta dish that is sure to win hearts. The succulent chicken, enveloped in a rich sauce, paired with your choice of pasta, creates a symphony of flavors that is hard to resist. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to a delicious meal, this recipe will not disappoint.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika

For the Pasta:

8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
4 cups water
1 tablespoon salt

For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
¼ cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes:

Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese

Preparation:

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
Begin by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. This seasoning mix ensures that the chicken is flavorful throughout. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). After cooking, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it into strips or bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the salt and then the pasta of your choice. Cook according to the package instructions until the pasta is al dente. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water. Drizzle a little olive oil over the cooked pasta and toss it to prevent sticking. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, dried thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Keep stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Pasta
Once the sauce is ready, add the sliced chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the creamy sauce. Let the chicken heat through for about 2 minutes. Then, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit more pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
After everything is well combined and heated through, plate the pasta and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese. Serve the Marry Me Chicken Pasta immediately while it’s still warm and enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness.

COOKING Rating:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Serving Suggestions:
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread and a fresh garden salad. A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the creamy flavors beautifully. For a touch of elegance, serve it with a lemon wedge to brighten the dish.

Tips:

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning for a few hours before cooking.
Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use less cheese.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 550
Protein: 35g
Sodium: 800mg

Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to the dining table. The creamy sauce, seasoned chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta come together to create a dish that is both satisfying and memorable. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to fall in love with this delicious dish!

Questions and Answers about this recipe:

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne, fettuccine, and spaghetti are great options, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and combine with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and sour cream. Keep in mind that the sauce may be less creamy.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the cream.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.