This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s guaranteed to win hearts! With tender chicken, a rich, velvety sauce, and the perfect hint of sun-dried tomatoes, this recipe has been a family favorite for years. The delicious combination of ingredients makes this meal one that everyone will ask for over and over again!
Ingredients
- 8 oz dried pasta (any kind you like – penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work great!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon each: Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Cook the Chicken
Add butter and chicken to the skillet, seasoning with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the sun-dried tomatoes and the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately for a deliciously satisfying meal!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Creamy & Rich: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a smooth, indulgent sauce that’s the perfect base for the chicken and pasta.
- Flavorful & Savory: Sun-dried tomatoes and seasonings like smoked paprika and Italian seasoning elevate the flavor profile of this dish.
- Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this is a meal you can whip up on any weeknight or special occasion.
Tips & Variations
- Add Veggies: For more texture, consider adding spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the dish.
- Cheese Lovers: Top with more grated Parmesan or even a sprinkle of mozzarella for an extra cheesy kick!
- Spice It Up: If you like heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce for an extra zing.
- Substitute Chicken: Swap the chicken for shrimp or grilled vegetables for a variation on the recipe.
How to Store
- Leftovers: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce, or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pasta, sauce, and chicken in advance and store it separately. When ready to serve, reheat and toss everything together.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape works with this creamy sauce – penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti will complement the dish.
Can I use a non-dairy substitute?
Yes, substitute coconut cream or cashew cream for the heavy cream, and use a non-dairy Parmesan alternative for a dairy-free version.
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the kind of meal that’ll leave everyone coming back for seconds! Its rich, creamy texture, coupled with tender chicken and bold flavors, makes it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!