Marry Chicken Pasta: Unforgettable 30 Min Meal

Marry Chicken Pasta has a way of making any night feel special, like a little culinary proposal right at your dinner table. I still remember the first time I made this dish for my partner; the aroma of garlic and simmering cream filled our kitchen, promising something truly delicious. That first bite, with the tender chicken and those sweet, chewy sun-dried tomatoes clinging to perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, velvety sauce, was pure magic. It’s become my go-to for date nights at home, and I’m convinced it’s the best creamy chicken pasta recipe for making everyday meals feel like a celebration. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Marry Chicken Pasta

This dish is an absolute winner for so many reasons:

• Incredible Flavor: It’s a truly delicious, rich, and savory experience that feels gourmet.
• Weeknight Speedy: You can whip up this creamy chicken pasta recipe in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses common ingredients that are easy on the wallet, proving you don’t need expensive cuts for a fantastic meal.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters adore this comforting and satisfying chicken pasta bake easy.
• Impressive Presentation: It looks and tastes like a fancy restaurant dish, but it’s totally achievable at home.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to include your favorite vegetables or to fit dietary needs, making it a go-to for many occasions.
• Ultimate Comfort Food: This is pure comfort in a bowl, the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out.
• A Perfect Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe: It hits all the right notes for a truly memorable meal.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Pasta

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this delightful sun dried tomato chicken pasta. You’ll find that most items are pantry staples, making this an easy weeknight option. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 10 oz penne pasta – cooked al dente, this is the perfect vehicle for our rich sauce
• 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts – cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – essential for bringing out all the flavors
• 1 tbsp olive oil – for searing the chicken and sautéing aromatics
• 3 tbsp butter – the base for our luscious sauce
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced – adds that irresistible fragrant punch
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour – used to thicken the sauce into a beautiful, creamy consistency
• 2 cups chicken broth – provides depth and savory flavor
• 1 cup heavy cream – the key to that decadent, velvety texture
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for a salty, nutty finish
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped – these add a wonderful chewy texture and sweet-tart flavor
• 1 tsp paprika – for a touch of color and subtle warmth
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs for that classic Italian taste
• Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish – for a burst of freshness
• Optional: spinach – for a pop of color and added nutrients

How to Make Marry Chicken Pasta

This one pot chicken pasta comes together so easily, you’ll wonder why you ever bought takeout! It’s the perfect blend of simple steps and incredible flavor.

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, get your pasta cooking according to package directions until it’s just al dente. Drain it well and set it aside.
2. Step 2: Season your chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken and cook until it’s beautifully browned on all sides and cooked through. This searing locks in the juices, giving you a fantastic flavor base. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Step 3: Lower the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30-60 seconds until it’s wonderfully fragrant – you’ll smell that delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and butter. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and form a simple roux.
5. Step 5: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan – that’s where so much flavor is! Then, whisk in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it thicken slightly.
6. Step 6: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Continue to simmer the sauce gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s lusciously thick. Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Step 7: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. If you’re adding spinach, toss it in now; it will wilt down quickly in the warm sauce. Stir everything together to coat and warm the chicken through. This makes for a truly complete one pot chicken pasta experience.
8. Step 8: Finally, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything gently until the pasta is thoroughly coated in that glorious creamy sauce. Ensure every strand is kissed by the deliciousness.
9. Step 9: Serve this amazing one pot chicken pasta immediately, garnished with fresh chopped basil and extra Parmesan cheese if you like.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Pasta Dinner

Elevate your chicken pasta game with these simple tricks:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken; cook in batches if necessary to ensure a good brown crust.
• For an even richer sauce, use a mix of chicken broth and white wine for deglazing the pan.
• Taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process – a little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference.
• If you don’t have heavy cream, a mixture of half-and-half and milk can work, but the sauce might be slightly less rich.

What’s the secret to perfect creamy chicken pasta sauce?

The magic lies in creating a proper roux with butter and flour, then slowly whisking in the liquids. This technique ensures a smooth, velvety chicken pasta with creamy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully, rather than being thin or greasy. For more on creating perfect sauces, you can explore sauce and marinade techniques.

Can I make chicken pasta bake easy ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare most of the components ahead! Cook the pasta and chicken, make the sauce, and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, combine everything in a skillet and reheat gently. This makes it a super quick chicken pasta meal. Check out other dinner recipes that are great for meal prep.

How do I avoid common mistakes with easy chicken pasta dinner?

Avoid overcooking your pasta; it will continue to cook in the hot sauce. Also, don’t boil the sauce too rapidly after adding cream, as it can sometimes separate. Lastly, ensure your chicken is cooked through before adding it back to the sauce.

Best Ways to Serve Marry Chicken Pasta

This rich and decadent Marry Chicken Pasta is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple sides to round out your meal. It’s one of my favorite chicken pasta for dinner ideas because it’s so adaptable. For a truly satisfying experience, I love serving it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the sauce. Steamed or roasted asparagus or broccoli also makes a wonderful vegetable complement, adding a fresh, slightly bitter contrast. A crusty bread for soaking up any extra sauce is always a welcome addition too! Consider pairing it with some complementary sides.

Nutrition Facts for Marry Chicken Pasta

This creamy chicken pasta dish is a hearty and satisfying meal. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: Approx. 650 kcal
• Fat: N/A
• Saturated Fat: N/A
• Protein: N/A
• Carbohydrates: N/A
• Fiber: N/A
• Sugar: N/A
• Sodium: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For more information on nutritional content, you can refer to resources like the USDA’s guide to nutrition labels.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Pasta with Creamy Sauce

Leftovers of this delicious Marry Chicken Pasta are a fantastic bonus, making it a great option for planning ahead. Once the dish has cooled completely to room temperature, which usually takes about an hour, transfer it into airtight containers. You can store individual portions for easy access, making it perfect for a quick chicken pasta meal on busy days. This creamy chicken pasta dish will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. While it’s not ideal for freezing due to the creamy sauce potentially separating upon thawing, refrigerating it is simple and effective.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is straightforward. You can gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. If the sauce seems a bit thick, add a splash of milk, a little more chicken broth, or even a touch of cream to loosen it up and restore that luscious texture. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between each interval until it’s heated through. This ensures you get to enjoy all the creamy goodness of your Marry Chicken Pasta again. For more tips on reheating, explore our latest recipes which often include storage advice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Chicken Pasta

Can I make Marry Chicken Pasta with different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is fantastic for holding the creamy sauce, feel free to experiment with other shapes like fettuccine, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. If you’re looking for a simple chicken pasta recipe, using a shape that cooks quickly can save you even more time. Just ensure you cook it al dente, as it will finish cooking in the sauce.

How can I make this a healthier chicken pasta option?

To lighten up this dish, you can substitute some of the heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce might be a bit less rich. You can also boost the vegetable content by adding more spinach, or incorporating other quick-cooking veggies like peas or chopped bell peppers. Using whole wheat pasta also adds more fiber, making it a more nutritious choice.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes for my simple chicken pasta recipe?

No sun-dried tomatoes? No problem! Roasted red peppers, chopped finely, make a great substitute and offer a similar sweet and slightly tangy flavor. You could also add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a deeper tomato flavor, or even some Kalamata olives for a briny kick. These variations still deliver a delicious chicken pasta for dinner ideas.

Can I add other proteins to this marry me chicken pasta recipe?

While chicken is classic, this creamy sauce is versatile! You could easily substitute shrimp, scallops, or even Italian sausage. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. For a vegetarian version, you could use chickpeas or firm tofu sautéed until golden. This makes the marry me chicken pasta recipe adaptable to many preferences.

Variations of Marry Chicken Pasta You Can Try

This Marry Chicken Pasta is so versatile, it’s easy to adapt it to your tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Add More Veggies: Amp up the goodness by adding a cup of fresh spinach to wilt into the sauce at the end, or toss in some steamed broccoli florets or sautéed mushrooms with the pasta. This is a fantastic way to incorporate more chicken pasta with vegetables into your meal.
• Spice it Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic, or stir in a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce into the finished sauce.
• Lighter Version: If you prefer a less decadent dish, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a combination of milk and a little cornstarch slurry to thicken. This still provides a creamy chicken pasta with a lighter touch.
• Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry instead of flour. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cream alternative and nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.

Marry Chicken Pasta: Unforgettable 30 Min Meal

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

A creamy, flavorful one-pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta featuring tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and parmesan in a luscious sauce. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 10 oz penne pasta, cooked al dente
• 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp butter
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
• Optional: spinach

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Instructions

1. Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
2. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. Melt butter in the same skillet. Sauté garlic until fragrant.
5. Sprinkle flour into the skillet, stir to form a roux, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
6. Whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
7. Stir in Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
8. Simmer sauce until slightly thickened. Add salt and pepper to taste.
9. Add cooked chicken (and spinach, if using) back into the sauce. Stir to warm through.
10. Toss in the cooked pasta. Mix until coated in the sauce.
11. Serve with chopped fresh basil and extra Parmesan.

Notes

• For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream instead of all heavy cream.
• This recipe can be made with gluten-free pasta and a roux thickened with cornstarch or gluten-free flour.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
• Do not freeze this dish as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: One-Pan (mostly)
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: Approx. 650 kcal (estimated)
• Sugar: N/A
• Sodium: N/A
• Fat: N/A
• Saturated Fat: N/A
• Unsaturated Fat: N/A
• Trans Fat: N/A
• Carbohydrates: N/A
• Fiber: N/A
• Protein: N/A
• Cholesterol: N/A

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