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The Absolute Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Are you looking for a recipe that will make everyone fall in love with you (and your cooking)? Look no further than this Absolute Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe! With tender chicken, a rich creamy sauce, and the perfect blend of seasonings, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of recipe that combines comfort food with elegance, making it ideal for everything from casual dinners to special date nights.
If you’ve heard of “Marry Me Chicken” before, you know it’s a dish that’s said to be so delicious, it could get you a proposal. And we’re here to show you how to make it at home! This Absolute Marry Me Chicken Pasta version takes things up a notch by adding pasta to the mix, turning it into a complete meal that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to make, so even beginner cooks can master it with ease!
Let’s dive into this foolproof recipe that’s guaranteed to impress your loved ones and leave them asking for seconds. You won’t want to miss this one!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this irresistible Absolute Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Gather these simple ingredients, and you’re on your way to creating a deliciously creamy and savory dish!
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
- Salt (for boiling pasta water)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional:
- Fresh lemon juice (for a touch of brightness)
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (for added flavor and color)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple instructions to create your Absolute Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Trust us—this meal is easier than it sounds, and the result will be totally worth it!
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Once the skillet is hot, place the chicken in the pan and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside. Once it’s cool enough to touch, slice the chicken into thin strips or cubes.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set the pasta aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet you used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to mix everything together. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Stir in the thyme, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the pasta and chicken in the creamy sauce.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if necessary.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Serve the Absolute Marry Me Chicken Pasta on plates, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese.
- Optional: Squeeze a little lemon juice over the top for a burst of fresh flavor.
These steps are designed to be quick and simple, leaving you with a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s move on to the next section where we’ll share some helpful tips and variations to make this recipe your own!
Tips and Variations
Here are some extra tips and variations to help you make the Absolute Marry Me Chicken Pasta your own, plus ideas to elevate the flavors even further!
Tips for Perfecting the Dish:
- Chicken Cooking Tip: To ensure the chicken is perfectly juicy, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, cutting into the thickest part of the chicken should reveal no pink.
- Creamy Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce. For a thinner sauce, add more chicken broth or pasta water as needed.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta to al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly once combined with the sauce. This prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Don’t Skip the Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan will melt into the sauce better than pre-shredded, giving you that smooth, rich texture. It’s worth the extra effort!
Flavor Variations to Try:
- Add Vegetables: You can boost the nutritional value by adding vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms to the sauce. Sauté the veggies in the skillet before adding the garlic to give them extra flavor.
- Spicy Twist: If you like a little heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add a diced jalapeño pepper to the sauce. It’ll give the dish a spicy kick that balances out the creamy richness.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to swap out the thyme and basil for fresh herbs such as rosemary or oregano. Fresh herbs can really elevate the flavor and add a burst of freshness.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Swap the regular pasta for a gluten-free variety, and you’re all set to enjoy this dish without worrying about gluten.
How to Customize:
- Protein Options: If you prefer a different protein, try substituting the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even grilled salmon. Each alternative brings a unique flavor to the dish while maintaining the creamy sauce that makes it irresistible.
- Make it Light: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute like coconut cream, and opt for a whole wheat or vegetable-based pasta.
Nutritional Information
If you’re curious about the nutritional facts for this Absolute Marry Me Chicken Pasta, here’s a general breakdown. Keep in mind, the nutritional values will vary based on ingredient substitutions and portion sizes.
Serving Size: 1 Plate
Calories: 450
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 680mg
Healthier Adjustments:
- Lower Calories: To reduce the calories, you can use light cream or a non-dairy milk alternative. You can also cut back on the cheese or opt for a lower-fat variety.
- More Protein: Add more protein by using extra chicken or incorporating a side of grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Low-Carb Option: For a lower-carb version, swap out the pasta for zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash.
Conclusion
There you have it—the Absolute Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen! With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfect blend of herbs and spices, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner for two or a cozy family meal, this recipe delivers big on flavor without requiring a ton of effort.
I hope you have as much fun making and enjoying this dish as i do! Don’t forget to share your version of the Absolute Marry Me Chicken Pasta with us. We’d love to hear how it turned out and if you made any fun variations.
If you’re craving more easy, delicious recipes like this one, make sure to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates. Happy cooking, and may your Marry Me Chicken Pasta bring as much joy to your dinner table as it does to your taste buds!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions we’ve received about this recipe, along with answers to make sure everything goes smoothly when you’re cooking.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes! You can make the Absolute Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time. To do so, prepare the chicken, pasta, and sauce as directed, then store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pasta and sauce together in a skillet, adding a bit more chicken broth if necessary to loosen the sauce. Top with the chicken, and you’re good to go!
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: While we don’t recommend freezing the pasta itself, you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately. After cooking, allow them to cool completely before placing them in airtight containers. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of pasta water to restore the creamy texture.
Q: What can I serve this with?
A: The Absolute Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for extra crunch. If you’re looking for something lighter, a simple steamed vegetable like broccoli or roasted asparagus makes the perfect complement.
Q: Can I make this a one-pan meal?
A: Absolutely! To make this dish a one-pan wonder, cook the chicken, then set it aside. In the same pan, sauté the garlic, deglaze the pan with the chicken broth, and make the sauce. Then, cook the pasta directly in the sauce with a little extra water or broth to help it cook and absorb all that delicious flavor.