When it comes to creating a romantic dinner, nothing says “I adore you” quite like a dish that’s both creamy and comforting. Marry Me Chicken Pasta—a title that’s as bold as it is charming—brings together tender chicken and luscious sauce in a way that might just get you a second date. Picture this: a cozy evening, a candle or two flickering (don’t forget the candles), and the aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through the room—pure magic.
Steps
- Cook the penne pasta as directed on the package, then drain and set aside for later use.
- Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces and season them with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes until fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add flour and stir to form a paste.
- Whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to thicken.
- Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly with the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 10 ounces penne pasta
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Additional parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 2584kcal | Carbohydrates: 204g | Protein: 164g | Fat: 124g | Saturated Fat: 68g | Polyunsaturated Fat: N/A | Monounsaturated Fat: N/A | Trans Fat: N/A | Cholesterol: 580mg | Sodium: 3848mg | Potassium: 4992mg | Fiber: 16g | Sugar: 40g | Vitamin A: 5040IU | Vitamin C: 36mg | Calcium: 1112mg | Iron: 12mg
FAQ
- What is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked properly?
- Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method to check if your chicken is thoroughly cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
- Can I make the sauce lighter?
- Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half and half for a lighter sauce, while still maintaining a creamy texture.
- How can I add more spice to the dish?
- To increase the heat level, you can sprinkle red pepper flakes into the dish according to your taste preference.
- What is the best way to store leftovers?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This will help maintain the freshness and flavor of the dish.
- How should I reheat Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
- You can reheat the pasta either in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium-low heat. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of cream to restore moisture.
Tips
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked without any risk of overcooking, use a meat thermometer. The ideal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (74°C).
- Add Spice for Extra Flavor: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to taste. This will enhance the dish with a subtle warmth.
- Opt for Fresh Parmesan: For the best flavor and a sauce that melts smoothly, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged grated cheese.
- Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of cream to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.
Equipment
- Large Skillet – A large, high-quality skillet is essential for cooking the chicken and making the sauce.
- Meat Thermometer – Useful for ensuring the chicken is cooked to the correct temperature (165 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Garlic Press – If you want freshly minced garlic with ease, a garlic press can be handy.
- Cheese Grater – If you decide to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a good cheese grater is a helpful tool.
