Name: Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces; 10 ounces penne pasta; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 tablespoons butter; 2 teaspoons garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons flour; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained; 1 teaspoon paprika; 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning; fresh basil for garnish

Introduction to Marry Me Chicken Pasta

The story behind Marry Me Chicken

The dish known as Marry Me Chicken Pasta has a delightful backstory. Legend has it that the rich flavors and comforting creaminess of this dish are so irresistible that many have joked it could prompt a proposal! With tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy garlic sauce, it's a dinner that promises to impress any guest. The simplicity of the dish combined with its elegant presentation truly captures the essence of Italian-American cuisine and offers a taste of home-cooked warmth.

Why young professionals love homemade meals

In a fast-paced world, many young professionals crave the comfort of homemade meals. Cooking at home allows for creativity and personalization in the kitchen, providing a break from the bustling routines of daily life. Studies show that home-cooked meals are not only healthier but also more cost-effective, saving money that would have been spent dining out. This is particularly appealing for professionals looking to balance career ambitions with personal health. Plus, preparing a dish like Marry Me Chicken Pasta can be a wonderful way to unwind after a long day, giving you the opportunity to enjoy gourmet flavors without the restaurant price tag. Embrace the joy of cooking—after all, there's something wonderfully satisfying about crafting a meal from scratch!

For more tips on healthy cooking, you can check out resources from The American Heart Association or Harvard Health Publishing.

Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

When preparing your delightful Marry Me Chicken Pasta, the right ingredients make all the difference. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to create this delicious dinner that’s bound to impress.

Main Ingredients for the Chicken

To start, gather these essentials for your chicken:

1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil

These ingredients are crucial for seasoning and sautéing the chicken to perfection. The chicken should be juicy and flavorful, creating the perfect protein for your pasta dish!

Ingredients for the Creamy Sauce

Next up, we have the creamy sauce that takes Marry Me Chicken Pasta to the next level. Here’s what you’ll need:

3 tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons garlic, minced
3 tablespoons flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
1 teaspoon paprika
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
Fresh basil for garnish

This sauce is not only creamy but packed with flavor, making each bite an experience worth savoring. If you’re curious about cooking techniques or ingredient substitutions, check out resources like Serious Eats or Bon Appétit for more culinary tips!

Preparing Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Cooking a delicious meal should be a joyful and rewarding experience, and once you try Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you'll understand why it’s a heartbeat away from love! This creamy, dreamy dish combines perfectly cooked penne pasta with succulent chicken in a rich sauce that’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. Let’s dive into the preparation!

Cooking the penne pasta

The foundation of any great pasta dish lies in the pasta itself! Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Remember, a pinch of salt not only flavors the pasta but also helps it to cook evenly.

Add 10 ounces of penne pasta to the boiling water.
Cook according to the package directions, usually around 9-11 minutes for al dente texture.
Once cooked, drain the pasta and toss it lightly with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking, then set it aside.

While you wait, check out this article on how to properly cook pasta for an even better technique!

Preparing the chicken

Next up, we’re getting that chicken ready! The trick here is to ensure every piece is seasoned well for maximum flavor.

Cut 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Season it generously with ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of pepper.

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. It should sizzle as they hit the pan—this is a good sign!

Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and no longer pink in the center.

Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest while you create that creamy sauce.

Making the creamy sauce

Now comes the magic moment! In the same skillet you've used for the chicken, you'll be creating a delicious sauce that marries everything together.

Add 3 tablespoons of butter and let it melt.
Sauté 2 teaspoons of minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant—your kitchen will smell divine!
Sprinkle in 3 tablespoons of flour to form a paste and whisk it together until smooth.

Gradually mix in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, followed by 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese. Stir until melty and creamy. Add in the 1 cup of drained sun-dried tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 2 teaspoons of dried Italian seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, and let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken.

Combining everything

Once the sauce reaches that perfect creamy consistency, it’s time to become a kitchen maestro!

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the penne pasta.
Gently toss everything together to ensure every morsel is generously coated in that luscious sauce.

Plating and garnishing

Presentation is key! When it comes to serving, aim for a restaurant-quality look.

Scoop portions of the pasta onto warm plates.
Garnish with chopped fresh basil and perhaps a sprinkle of additional parmesan cheese to elevate your dish visually and flavor-wise.

And there you have it—your very own Marry Me Chicken Pasta. It’s creamy, comforting, and bound to captivate the hearts (and appetites) of everyone at the table! Enjoy every last bite!

Variations on Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Adding Veggies for Extra Nutrition

One of the simplest ways to elevate your Marry Me Chicken Pasta is by tossing in some colorful veggies. Adding ingredients like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini not only boosts the dish's nutritional value but also enhances its visual appeal. Simply sauté your chosen vegetables alongside the garlic in the sauce for added flavor and vibrancy. For more tips on introducing greens to your cooking, you can check out this guide.

Substituting Proteins for Variety

Want to mix things up? Don’t hesitate to experiment with different proteins! Instead of chicken, try turkey bacon or even chicken ham for a delightful twist. If you prefer plant-based options, consider using grilled tofu or chickpeas for a hearty, vegetarian version. The key is to maintain the core flavors of the sauce while allowing your choice of protein to shine. This flexibility makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta a recipe you can enjoy time and again, each time discovering something new.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Tips for Perfecting the Sauce

To create a lusciously creamy sauce for your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, ensure your butter is fully melted before adding the garlic to prevent burning. After whisking in the flour, allow it to cook for about a minute—this helps eliminate the raw flour taste. For the best flavor, opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese; the pre-grated variety can contain anti-caking agents that dull its taste. If you're looking for a richness boost, try adding a splash of lemon juice for a delightful contrast to the creaminess.

Notes on Cooking Times and Temperatures

When cooking the chicken, make sure your skillet is hot enough to get a nice sear. This adds flavor and texture. Keep in mind that cooking times can vary; check that your chicken pieces reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F. For the penne pasta, aim for al dente; it will continue cooking a bit once combined with the sauce. Remember—let the sauce simmer gently to thicken it without burning. By being attentive to these details, you'll create a dish that’s not just delicious, but also sure to impress!

Serving suggestions for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Pairing with Salad or Bread

To elevate your Marry Me Chicken Pasta experience, consider serving it with a fresh, crisp salad or some warm, crusty bread. A simple arugula salad with cherry tomatoes, lemon vinaigrette, and shaved parmesan complements the creamy pasta beautifully. For bread, a garlic baguette or focaccia can be the perfect vehicle for soaking up that delightful sauce. Both options balance the richness of the dish while adding a refreshing crunch.

Ideal Drinks to Complement the Dish

When it comes to drinks, consider pairing your Marry Me Chicken Pasta with a sparkling lemon water or a delicious homemade iced tea. The brightness of lemon and the effervescence will cut through the creaminess, providing a satisfying contrast. Alternatively, a refreshing herbal iced tea can enhance the flavors of the dish without competing for attention, making your meal feel even more special and well-rounded.

Find more pairing ideas and tips on Food Pairing. Enjoy!

Time Breakdown for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Planning your meal can make all the difference in your cooking experience! Here’s a quick breakdown of the time you'll spend preparing this delightful Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Preparation Time

Allow yourself about 10 minutes to gather your ingredients and prep. This includes chopping the chicken and measuring out everything else.

Cooking Time

The cooking portion will take around 20 minutes. You’ll be cooking the chicken and making that creamy sauce while the pasta cooks!

Total Time

In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal on the table. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy date night at home!

For more tips on time management and recipe scaling, you might find resources like Food Network's Cooking Basics helpful!

By planning ahead and understanding the time involved, you can streamline your cooking process and enjoy a stress-free dining experience. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

When it comes to finding a delicious and satisfying meal, Marry Me Chicken Pasta checks all the boxes! Here’s a quick overview of its nutritional profile:

Calories

A serving of this creamy pasta dish contains approximately 450 calories, making it a hearty yet balanced choice for dinner.

Protein Content

With chicken as a key ingredient, this dish packs in about 30 grams of protein per serving, supporting your daily intake and keeping you energized.

Carbohydrates

Each serving delivers roughly 50 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the penne pasta, providing the fuel needed for your busy lifestyle.

For more insights into your meal planning, check sources like the USDA's FoodData Central for specific nutrient values! Enjoy crafting this delightful dish that’s sure to impress!

FAQ about Marry Me Chicken Pasta

What is the origin of Marry Me Chicken?

The dish Marry Me Chicken gained popularity through social media and blogs, often associated with comforting, hearty meals that leave a lasting impression. Legend has it that if you cook this creamy, sun-dried tomato chicken pasta, you might just inspire a proposal! With its rich flavors and tender pasta, it's easy to see why this dish has captured hearts and stomachs alike.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time by cooking the chicken and sauce separately. Simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, just reheat the sauce and combine it with the cooked penne pasta and chicken. It’s a fantastic option for meal prepping or hosting dinner parties!

What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

To complement your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A refreshing green salad can cut through the richness of the sauce, while garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. Want to spice things up? Try an easy homemade vinaigrette to elevate the flavors!

Conclusion on Marry Me Chicken Pasta

In summary, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful blend of creamy flavors and savory chicken that promises to impress anyone around your dinner table. Ideal for weeknight meals or special occasions, this dish offers heartiness with every bite. Give it a try, and you might just hear wedding bells!