Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

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Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a special dinner. With tender chicken, a rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is bound to impress. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasonings makes it an irresistible meal!

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half to make cutlets)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Sauce:

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
  • Water for boiling
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Season both sides of the chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  3. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
  4. Stir well and let simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return to the skillet.
  2. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together.
  3. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  4. Let everything simmer for 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

  1. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
  2. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations

Spicy Version

  • Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for more heat.

Low-Carb Option

  • Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.

Extra Veggies

  • Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
  • Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and spice levels.

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a romantic, comforting dish that’s sure to be a hit at any dinner table!