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Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe - Creamy Garlic Parmesan Dish

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe – Creamy Garlic Parmesan Dish

Description

Hey there, pasta lovers! Today, we have an irresistible recipe that has been sweeping across kitchens everywhere, and trust me, once you make it, everyone will be asking for seconds! Let’s dive into the delicious world of Marry Me Chicken Pasta, a creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta that is sure to capture your heart—and your appetite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or even a special someone, this dish is packed with flavors that are both comforting and luxurious. So, grab your apron, and let’s make some magic happen in the kitchen!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Make sure they’re fresh for the best texture.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil – Used for searing the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon pepper – Freshly ground pepper adds more flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a nice smoky depth to the chicken.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic brings out the best in the sauce.
  • 1 cup heavy cream – This is key to achieving that luxurious creamy texture.
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth – Helps thin the sauce while enhancing flavor.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated is preferred for the creamiest sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme – A hint of herbal goodness.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Balances out the creaminess with a slight earthiness.
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped – Adds a tangy, savory twist to the dish.
  • 10 oz penne pasta – Any pasta works, but penne holds the sauce perfectly.
  • Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish) – Optional, but it adds a pop of freshness and color.

Optional substitutions:

  • For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
  • If you’re gluten-free, swap regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free alternative.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. You want it to be al dente, so it holds up well when mixed with the creamy sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, ensuring they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Create the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet (don’t clean it—those leftover bits are flavor gold!), add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it. Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, making sure it melts into the sauce without clumping.

Step 4: Add the Herbs and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Now it’s time to add your dried thyme and oregano to the sauce. Stir them in, allowing the flavors to meld. Then, toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, which will give the sauce a rich, tangy burst of flavor. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Pasta
Once the sauce is ready, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, allowing them to soak up the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce for about 5 minutes. Then, add the cooked penne pasta and gently toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
For a final touch, sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped basil. Serve your Marry Me Chicken Pasta hot, and get ready to impress everyone at the table!

Equipment

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese can sometimes be coated with additives that prevent it from melting smoothly. For the creamiest sauce, grate your Parmesan just before adding it.
  • Sear the chicken properly: Don’t rush this step! A good sear locks in the juices and gives the chicken a golden crust that adds texture to the dish.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente is the way to go. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce, so you want it to still have a bit of a bite when mixed in.

Find it online: https://optimalrecipes.com/marry-me-chicken-pasta-recipe-creamy-garlic-parmesan-dish/