Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Warm and Cozy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

There’s something so heartwarming about a meal that carries a story, isn’t there? Marry Me Chicken Pasta is that kind of dish, infused with layers of flavor and a touch of romance. Imagine a cozy evening, perhaps the aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen, as the golden chicken sizzles in the skillet. Friends and family gather around the table, eyes sparkling with anticipation, ready to dive into a creamy, delicious bowl of pasta. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm embrace after a long day—a gentle reminder that love can be found in the simplest of foods. This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
• Creamy and Comforting: The heavenly combination of heavy cream and Parmesan creates a sauce that’s simply irresistible.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for family dinners or special gatherings, everyone will be asking for seconds!
• Versatile Flavors: You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Perfectly Balanced: Savory sun-dried tomatoes and zesty seasonings elevate this dish to restaurant-quality.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• 1 lb chicken breast (cubed into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 tsp Salt
• ½ tsp Pepper
• ½ cup All-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp Italian Seasoning
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• ½ tsp Paprika
• 4 tbsp Olive oil (divided)
• 2 tbsp Butter
• 10 oz Rigatoni (uncooked)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp dried parsley
• ½ tsp Salt (more or less to taste)
• Red Chili Flakes (to taste)
• 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated, divided)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s Make It Together!

1. Season 1 lb of chicken with 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp pepper, giving it a good rub to distribute the spices.
2. In a gallon-sized resealable plastic bag, combine ½ cup all-purpose flour with 1 ½ tsp Italian seasoning, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp paprika. Add the cubed chicken to the flour and shake the bag to coat evenly. Remove the chicken, shaking off any excess, and reserve 1 tablespoon of the flour mixture.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter. Add the chicken and allow it to cook until browned on one side, about 3-4 minutes. Flip and cook until browned on the other side, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a separate plate and set aside.
4. Cook 10 oz of rigatoni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add another 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
6. Add ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 cup chicken broth, and 1 cup heavy whipping cream. Stir to combine and let it simmer.
7. Sprinkle in 1 tsp Italian seasoning, ½ tsp parsley, ½ tsp salt, and red chili flakes to taste. Stir to combine again.
8. In a small bowl, mix the reserved tablespoon of flour mixture with 3 tablespoons of the sauce to create a paste. Stir this back into the sauce along with ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce thickens up beautifully.
9. Toss the cooked rigatoni into the pan, stirring for 1 minute until warmed through.
10. Add the chicken back to the skillet and sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup of Parmesan. Mix everything together and let it cook uncovered for another few minutes until fully thickened into a delicious sauce.
11. Serve warm and enjoy every creamy, delightful bite!

Fun Ways to Customize It

• Vegetable Delight: Add spinach or broccoli for a burst of color and nutrition.
• Zesty Lemon Twist: Squeeze fresh lemon juice before serving for a refreshing zing.
• Protein-Powered: Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey bacon, or beef for a different twist.
• Herb Infusion: Top with fresh basil or parsley for added freshness and flavor.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

• Make-ahead Magic: You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just reheat before adding the pasta!
• Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to use gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free option without sacrificing flavor.
• Slicing Tricks: For even cubes, freeze the chicken breast for about 30 minutes before cutting; it makes slicing easier.

Nutrition Information per Serving

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 620
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Sugar: 5g
• Fat: 38g
• Protein: 30g
• Sodium: 850mg

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make this ahead? Yes! Prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
• Can I use different ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the chicken or pasta with your preferred proteins or whole grain options.
• How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• How long does it last? Enjoy it within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

A Cozy Closing Note

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a cozy family night, this recipe assures warmth and satisfaction. Save this Marry Me Chicken Pasta to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat!