The aroma of garlic and herbs wafts through the kitchen as you prepare to indulge in marry me chicken pasta. Picture this: tender chicken coated in a luscious cream sauce, paired perfectly with al dente pasta that practically begs to be devoured.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that might just lead you to a surprise proposal—or at least some enthusiastic compliments from family and friends! Gather around the table for a cozy dinner or whip it up on date night; either way, it’s bound to create lasting memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Marry me chicken pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The rich flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Its stunning presentation makes it feel special enough for any occasion.
- You can easily customize it with seasonal vegetables or your favorite herbs.
I still remember the first time I made this dish; my partner couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was—let’s just say there were no leftovers that night!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts are ideal; adjust based on how many guests you’re feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for an intense flavor; minced garlic really elevates the dish.
- Heavy Cream: This is what gives the sauce its luxurious texture; opt for full-fat for best results.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds depth; resist the urge to use pre-grated.
- Pasta of Choice: Fettuccine or penne works well here; choose your favorite type for personal flair.
- Fresh Basil: Adds a pop of color and freshness; chop it right before serving for optimal taste.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it’s healthier and enhances flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all flavors together; season generously but taste as you go.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Kitchen: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter; this makes cooking so much easier and more organized.
Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a pot and add salt before tossing in your chosen pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown on both sides—around 6-7 minutes per side.
Add Garlic: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pan. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds will do!
Make the Sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet with garlic, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine Everything: Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet along with cooked pasta. Toss everything together gently until well coated in that dreamy sauce.
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle fresh basil over the top before serving. Enjoy your meal while it’s hot—maybe even with a side of romantic music!
Now you’ve created an impressive plate of marry me chicken pasta that will surely win hearts (and stomachs) everywhere! Enjoy this creamy delight at home or share it with loved ones during special occasions—just don’t be surprised if someone gets down on one knee!
You Must Know
- When preparing marry me chicken pasta, fresh ingredients elevate the dish.
- Always taste as you go to ensure perfect seasoning.
- The aroma of garlic and herbs fills the kitchen, making it a delightful cooking experience.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by searing the chicken for a golden crust, then cook your pasta while making the sauce. This method saves time and enhances flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or use different herbs. A sprinkle of parmesan can add a lovely richness to your dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat to keep the pasta tender and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Searing chicken properly ensures a flavorful crust while keeping it juicy inside.
- Always have your ingredients prepped before starting to save time.
- Stirring frequently prevents pasta from sticking and ensures even cooking.
Cooking this marry me chicken pasta reminds me of hosting my first dinner party, where everyone raved about how delicious it was—I felt like a culinary superstar!
FAQ
What is marry me chicken pasta?
Marry me chicken pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken and delicious pasta.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian version.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked properly?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Creamy, flavorful, and perfect for a romantic dinner, this dish promises to impress with every delicious bite.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz pasta of choice (fettuccine or penne recommended)
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Prep your kitchen by gathering all ingredients.
- 2. Boil salted water in a pot and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper; cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet.
- 4. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 5. Pour in heavy cream, scraping any browned bits from the pan. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- 6. Slice chicken and return it to the skillet along with cooked pasta; toss gently until coated in sauce.
- 7. Top with fresh basil before serving hot.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider including seasonal vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes.
- To make it vegetarian, replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
