Creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs, bringing an irresistible blend of flavors. It's a dish that could inspire a proposal!
Start by gathering all your ingredients for the Marry Me Chicken Pasta. You'll need boneless chicken breasts, olive oil, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, parmesan cheese, and fresh basil. Don't forget the pasta of your choice, such as fettuccine or penne.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook each side until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes to taste. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it well with the sauce. Allow the flavors to meld for 2-3 minutes. Meanwhile, cook your pasta according to package instructions, then drain and add it to the skillet.
Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the chicken and pasta, stirring gently until it's melted into the sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped basil before serving.
Servings 4
Serving Size 1
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
- Ensure chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs for maximum flavor infusion.
- Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side, to lock in juices.
- Use a mix of fresh garlic and shallots to create a depth of flavor in the sauce.
- Deglaze the pan with white wine or chicken broth to lift all the delicious browned bits.
- Incorporate heavy cream slowly, stirring continuously to avoid curdling and ensure a smooth texture.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy contrast and vibrant color.
- Simmer the sauce until it reduces slightly and thickens, coating the back of a spoon.
- Stir in freshly grated Parmesan for a creamy, cheesy finish.
- Toss al dente pasta directly into the sauce, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of freshness and color.
- Adjust seasoning before serving, as the cheese can add saltiness.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor, ensuring the pasta dish remains creamy and delicious.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate with every bite. The creamy, garlic-infused sauce, combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, creates a comforting yet elegant dish that promises to make any meal feel special. It's the kind of recipe that evokes warmth and connection, often leading to moments of culinary bliss around the dinner table.
Every time I prepare this dish, I'm reminded of the first time I cooked it for a dear friend. The aroma wafted through the kitchen like a warm embrace, and as we shared stories and laughter, I realized that food truly is a universal language of love. It's not just about the flavors, but the memories created and shared with those we cherish.
Serve this pasta with a side of freshly baked garlic bread or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. For a twist, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for added color and nutrients. Leftovers, if there are any, can be stored in an airtight container and enjoyed the next day—simply reheat gently to maintain the sauce's creamy texture.
