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Marry Me Chicken Pasta: The Irresistible Dish That Lives Up to Its Name

Marry Me Chicken Pasta
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The original “Marry Me Chicken” got its name because it’s so delicious that whoever tastes it might just propose on the spot! This pasta version takes that same magic—creamy, cheesy, slightly tangy from sun-dried tomatoes—and combines it with perfectly cooked penne for a heartier meal.

The secret? A rich, velvety sauce made with Parmesan, heavy cream, and a touch of Italian seasoning. The sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet-tart depth, while the garlic and paprika bring warmth. Every forkful is a flavor explosion that’s impossible to resist.

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Pasta:

▢ 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken (cut into 1-inch pieces)
▢ 10 oz penne pasta (or any short pasta)
▢ ½ tsp salt
▢ ¼ tsp black pepper
▢ 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce:

▢ 3 tbsp butter
▢ 2 tsp minced garlic
▢ 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
▢ 2 cups chicken broth
▢ 1 cup heavy cream
▢ 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
▢ 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained & chopped)
▢ 1 tsp paprika
▢ 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
▢ Fresh basil (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add 10 oz penne pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually 9-11 minutes for al dente).
  • Drain and set aside.

2. Season & Cook the Chicken

  • Cut 1 ½ lbs chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  • Season with ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp pepper.
  • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until no longer pink.
  • Remove chicken and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce

  • In the same skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat.
  • Add 2 tsp minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Stir in 3 tbsp flour to form a paste (this thickens the sauce).
  • Slowly whisk in 2 cups chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream.
  • Add 1 cup Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted.
  • Mix in 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, 1 tsp paprika, and 2 tsp Italian seasoning.
  • Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

4. Combine Everything

  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
  • Add the cooked pasta and toss until fully coated in the sauce.
  • Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.

Notes

✔ Use freshly grated Parmesan (pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy).
✔ Don’t overcook the chicken—sear it just until golden for maximum tenderness.
✔ Adjust the sauce thickness by adding more broth if needed.
✔ For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine when sautéing the garlic.
✔ Make it spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://toplushrecipes.com/marry-me-chicken-pasta-the-irresistible-dish-that-lives-up-to-its-name/