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Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, dreamy dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. With tender chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a luxurious Parmesan sauce, it’s perfect for romantic dinners or comforting weeknight meals.
INGREDIENTS- Dried pasta: 8 oz of your choice, cooked al dente.
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp for sautéing the onion and chicken.
- Onion: 1/2 cup finely chopped for added flavor.
- Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced for aromatic depth.
- Unsalted butter: 1 tbsp, melted into the sauce base.
- Chicken breasts: 1 lb, cut into bite-size pieces and seasoned.
- Italian seasoning: 1/2 tsp, for herbaceous notes.
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp, for a subtle smoky flavor.
- Red pepper flakes: 1/2 tsp, for a hint of heat.
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp, to enhance the garlic flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: 1/2 tsp each, for seasoning.
- Heavy cream: 1 cup, for a rich and creamy sauce.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, melted into the sauce.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: 1/2 cup, chopped for a tangy-sweet bite.
- Fresh basil leaves: For garnish and a fresh aroma.
- Step 1:
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
- Step 2:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Step 3:
- Sauté onions until softened (2-3 minutes), then add minced garlic and butter. Cook until fragrant (30 seconds).
- Step 4:
- Add chicken pieces. Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes until browned.
- Step 5:
- Stir in heavy cream, reserved pasta water, and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Step 6:
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir.
- Step 7:
- Toss cooked pasta in the sauce, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Step 8:
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
- Serve with a green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed.
- Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for a softer texture and richer flavor.
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Always reserve pasta water—it helps the sauce adhere to the pasta better.
- Fresh basil is key for a burst of flavor and aroma. Add just before serving for the best results.
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