As I pulled this Marry Me Chicken Pasta from the stove, the rich aroma wafted through my kitchen, beckoning everyone to the table. This delectable dish comes together in just 30 minutes and delivers an irresistible blend of flavors that’s sure to impress. The creamy sauce, a perfect complement to the tender chicken and sun-dried tomatoes, ensures that every bite is bursting with taste.
This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or any time you need a boost of comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. You can easily prepare the sauce in advance and simply combine it with the cooked pasta and chicken when you’re ready to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a one-pan dish that simplifies cleanup without sacrificing flavor.
- The creamy sauce clings perfectly to the pasta, providing a satisfying texture.
- It features sun-dried tomatoes, adding a burst of tangy sweetness.
- You can make it in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you will need to whip up this delicious dish.
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta, your choice
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
For the Sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
- Fresh basil, optional for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano for a stronger flavor.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Use canned tomatoes instead of sun-dried for a different flavor.
- Swap chicken for shrimp for a seafood variation.
- Almond milk can replace heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Whole wheat pasta works well as a healthier option.
How to Make It
Get ready to create a delicious meal in just four simple steps.
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water for later use.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken slices with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Build the Sauce
Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan until combined and smooth.
4. Combine & Serve
Toss cooked pasta and seared chicken in the creamy sauce. Mix well to coat everything and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with red pepper flakes and fresh basil, if desired.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, but texture may change upon thawing.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure the chicken is at room temperature before searing for even cooking.
- Don’t skip deglazing; it adds depth to the sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Adjust red pepper flakes based on heat preference.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side salad for a refreshing meal.
- Serve with garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests.
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