The aroma of creamy garlic sauce wafting through your kitchen can set the stage for a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal. Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that’s simple to prepare and wonderful to savor. It takes just about 30 minutes to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions.
This recipe is perfect for couples looking to impress each other or families wanting a delicious meal with minimal fuss. It’s ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend get-together. You can make the components ahead and store them separately for easy assembly when you’re ready to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The creamy sauce perfectly coats the pasta, creating a luxuriously rich texture.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of intense flavor and a pop of color to the dish.
- Fresh spinach brings a hint of earthiness and vibrant green to the plate.
- It’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze after a busy meal.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish.
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or fettuccine)
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups fresh spinach
For Garnish
- Fresh basil for garnish
Use whole milk instead of cream for a lighter sauce.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Penne or fettuccine can be swapped for gluten-free pasta.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Skip the chicken for a meatless dish.
- Omit Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
How to Make It
Get ready to create a delicious meal in just a few steps.
Cook the Pasta
- Cook pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
Sear the Chicken
- Sear chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove and slice the chicken.
Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes; sauté for 1-2 minutes.
Simmer the Broth
- Simmer broth: Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for a few minutes.
Make the Sauce
- Make sauce: Add heavy cream and Parmesan, stirring until combined and slightly thickened.
Combine Ingredients
- Combine ingredients: Add spinach and cooked pasta to the skillet; toss to combine.
Serve
- Serve: Serve with sliced chicken on top and garnish with fresh basil.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, cream-based dishes don’t freeze well.
Reheat: Microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly for safe eating.
- Don’t skip the sun-dried tomatoes; they add essential flavor.
- Adjust the cream based on your preferred sauce thickness.
- Use fresh basil for a fragrant touch when serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side salad for a light meal.
- Enjoy with garlic bread for a hearty dinner.
- Perfect for date night or family gatherings.
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