Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Introduction
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful pasta in a way that’s sure to impress. This recipe has gained popularity due to its rich taste and the romantic story behind it. It’s said that anyone who tries this dish will want to marry the person who cooked it. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home, this pasta is easy to prepare and absolutely delicious.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken breasts – 4 pieces
Salt and pepper – to taste
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Cherry tomatoes – 1 cup, halved
Heavy cream – 1 cup
Parmesan cheese – 1 cup, grated
Basil – 1/2 cup, fresh and chopped
Pasta – 12 ounces, any kind you prefer
Red pepper flakes – optional, for heat
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Create the Sauce
In the same skillet, add diced onion and sauté until translucent. Incorporate minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Cream
Pour in the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
Finish with Spinach and Cheese
Stir in the fresh spinach and allow it to wilt before sprinkling the dish with grated parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve
Plate the pasta and chicken mixture, garnishing with additional parmesan and fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Chicken Options
You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier alternative.
Pasta Alternatives
Feel free to substitute any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine or penne.
Vegetable Additions
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Freezing Instructions
This dish can be frozen; however, the cream may change texture upon thawing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before heating.
Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta to Perfection
Cooking pasta al dente is crucial. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and follow the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, but taste it a couple of minutes before it’s done.
Creating a Flavorful Sauce
To create a rich and savory sauce, sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant, then add sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream. Stir constantly, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 5-7 minutes.
Incorporating Chicken
For juicy chicken, season and sear the chicken breasts in a skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure they are golden brown on the outside and fully cooked inside, then cut into slices to mix with the pasta.
Combining Ingredients
Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the skillet with the sauce and chicken. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well-coated, adding parmesan cheese for extra creaminess and flavor.
Finishing Touches
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish. A squeeze of lemon can also enhance the flavors.
FAQ
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Fusilli, penne, or farfalle are great choices as they hold the sauce well.
Can I use different meats instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute with shrimp or even turkey for a different protein option.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely, you can skip the chicken and use vegetable broth and additional vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this dish?
While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s stored in a freezer-safe container.
Conclusion
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines creamy sauces with flavorful chicken and pasta, making it a perfect choice for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. Its rich taste and satisfying texture are sure to impress anyone who tries it, potentially leading to memorable moments around the dinner table.
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