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Rich Creamy Chicken Pasta Dish

Cook pasta, sauté chicken, make parmesan cream sauce, combine with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. A restaurant-worthy pasta dinner in about 45 minutes.

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A woman in an apron is preparing a meal in a sunny kitchen filled with fresh vegetables and herbs.
Updated on Fri, 03 Jan 2025 04:18:23 GMT
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Marry Me Chicken Pasta | myhomemaderecipe.com

A luxurious blend of tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, all wrapped in a velvety parmesan cream sauce - that's what makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta truly special. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes adds bursts of intense flavor that complement the rich sauce, while fresh herbs bring brightness to every bite.

Making this dish reminded me of my first attempt at a "fancy" dinner for someone special. While my technique has improved since then, the joy of creating something that makes people's eyes light up remains the same.

Essential Ingredients Selection

  • Chicken: Choose thighs for more flavor or breast for leaner option.
  • Sun-dried tomatoes: Oil-packed varieties offer better flavor.
  • Parmesan: Fresh-grated only - pre-grated won't melt properly.
  • Heavy cream: Full-fat creates the silkiest sauce.
  • Pasta: Bronze-cut penne catches more sauce in its ridges.

Detailed Cooking Steps

Perfect the chicken:
Pat pieces completely dry before seasoning. Don't overcrowd the pan while browning. Let rest while making sauce to retain juices.
Create the silky sauce:
Cook flour until raw taste disappears. Add liquids gradually to prevent lumps. Keep heat medium-low to avoid breaking sauce.
Combine with finesse:
Add pasta slightly before it's fully done. Reserve pasta water for adjusting sauce consistency. Toss gently to avoid breaking pasta.
Master the finish:
Let dish rest 2-3 minutes before serving. Add fresh herbs at the very end. Adjust seasoning with pasta water salt.

The Secret to Success

Through many iterations, I've found that letting the sauce simmer until it coats the back of a spoon creates the perfect consistency.

Making It Your Own

Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or extra spinach. The versatile sauce welcomes variations.

My Italian grandmother always said, "The sauce should hug the pasta, not drown it." This recipe achieves that perfect balance she always talked about.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Toast garlic in oil before adding other ingredients.
  • Grate cheese while cold for better texture.
  • Keep extra pasta water for reheating leftovers.

This dish has become my go-to for special occasions. There's something magical about watching someone take that first bite and seeing their expression change to pure delight. It's more than just dinner - it's a way to show love through food.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, any medium pasta shape like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle works great.
→ How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?
Keep the heat medium-low when adding cream and cheese, and stir constantly.
→ Can I make this ahead?
Best served fresh, but leftovers keep well in the fridge for 2-3 days.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half works, but the sauce won't be as rich. Avoid milk as it's too thin.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli are great additions. Add them when cooking the chicken.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Tender chicken and penne in a rich parmesan cream sauce, highlighted with sun-dried tomatoes and optional fresh spinach.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
30 Minutes
Total Time
45 Minutes
By: Zaho

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Italian-American

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Base Ingredients

01 16 ounces boneless, skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
02 12 ounces penne pasta, uncooked

→ Sauce Ingredients

03 2 tablespoons olive oil
04 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
05 4 cloves garlic, minced
06 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
07 2 cups chicken broth
08 1 cup heavy cream
09 1 cup grated parmesan cheese

→ Seasonings & Add-ins

10 1 teaspoon kosher salt
11 ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
12 ½ teaspoon paprika
13 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
14 ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
15 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
16 Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 01

Get a big pot of salted water boiling and cook your penne until it's al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 02

Season those chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then cook them in olive oil until they're golden brown and done through, about 7-9 minutes. Set aside when finished.

Step 03

In the same pan, melt your butter and cook the garlic until it smells amazing. Add flour to make a roux, then slowly whisk in your broth and cream. Add your seasonings and parmesan, stirring until it's all smooth.

Step 04

Add the chicken back to the pan with those sun-dried tomatoes. Let it all simmer until the sauce gets nice and thick.

Step 05

Toss in your pasta and let everything cook together for a few minutes. If you're using spinach, add it now and let it wilt. Top with fresh basil if you like!

Notes

  1. This creamy chicken pasta combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich parmesan sauce for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large pot for pasta
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Colander
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy
  • Wheat

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 600
  • Total Fat: 30 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 50 g
  • Protein: 40 g