Now, who wouldn’t want to say ‘I do’ to a plate of creamy, dreamy pasta that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect blend of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy sauce that’ll have you falling in love at first bite.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of juicy chicken and sun-dried tomatoes creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- A creamy sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese adds richness without overpowering the dish.
- It’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
- Perfect for a romantic dinner or a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic and tomatoes. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Everything Together
Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat. If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked chicken or even rotisserie chicken. And for a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, though the sauce won’t be as thick.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the chicken for shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
- Try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them when ready to serve. Just be sure to store the pasta and sauce separately to prevent the pasta from absorbing all the sauce.
What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
If you’re not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes, try using roasted red peppers or even cherry tomatoes for a different flavor profile.
How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce, or add a little more Parmesan cheese to thicken it up.
Summary
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s perfect for any occasion.
