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Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

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This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring tender bite-sized pieces of chicken cooked in a rich parmesan cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasonings, served over perfectly cooked penne pasta. Ready in 30 minutes, this comforting and impressive pasta recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 teaspoons garlic, minced

Pasta

  • 10 ounces penne pasta

Sauce

  • 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

Garnish

  • Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
  • Additional parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 10 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Cut 1 ½ pounds of boneless skinless chicken into 1-inch bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper evenly.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
  4. Make the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add 3 tablespoons butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add 2 teaspoons minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in 3 tablespoons flour to form a paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
  5. Add Liquids and Cheese: Gradually whisk in 2 cups chicken broth, followed by 1 cup heavy cream and 1 cup grated parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
  6. Flavor the Sauce: Stir in 1 cup drained sun-dried tomatoes, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
  7. Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet, then add the cooked penne pasta. Stir well to coat both the chicken and pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped basil leaves and sprinkle additional parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
  • Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil add extra richness; if using dry-packed, rehydrate in warm water before using.
  • Adjust the consistency of the sauce with extra chicken broth or cream if needed.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
  • This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American