If you’re looking for a dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also leaves a lasting impression, our Marry Me Chicken Pasta is exactly what you need. With its unique blend of flavors and ease of preparation, this culinary delight promises to bring smiles to your dining table. It’s hearty, creamy, and absolutely irresistible—perfectly timed for a cozy family meal or an impromptu dinner party.
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My grandmother used to say that the quickest way to someone’s heart is through their stomach. Whether it’s true or merely an old wives’ tale, there’s something magical about cooking a meal that turns skeptics into believers. The first time I cooked this dish, I saw it work wonders at a family gathering. When conversations turned into praises for the creamy sauce and perfectly cooked chicken, I knew this recipe would become a staple in my home. Every time I revisit it, I’m reminded of those joyous family moments full of laughter and satisfied palates.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is not only a treat for your senses, but it’s also a breeze to prepare. You’ll be able to put together a gourmet-level meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Its creamy sauce, accentuated with garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, pairs perfectly with succulent chicken, creating a symphony of flavors. Additionally, the ingredients are easy to find, making it a practical choice for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. Your guests will be left asking for more, and the best part is that less time cooking means more time enjoying with loved ones.
Ingredients Notes
When sourcing ingredients for this dish, fresh is always best, but don’t let that limit you. Fresh chicken breasts provide the best texture, but you can use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer taste. For the sauce, aim for a quality chicken broth, garlic cloves, and sun-dried tomatoes, which provide that lovely depth of flavor. If you can’t find sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers make a great substitute. Whipping cream will offer the sauce its silky texture, but feel free to use half-and-half for a lighter version. Parmesan cheese is a must for the top, but freshly grated Romano cheese can deliver an exciting twist.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste. Heat a skillet over medium heat, then add a splash of olive oil. Sear the chicken on each side for about 5–7 minutes until golden brown. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 2
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook briefly until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, gently scraping up browned bits from the pan for extra flavor.
Step 3
Reduce the heat to low and add the whipping cream. Stir until well combined, then let the sauce thicken slightly. Return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring they are well coated with the sauce.
Step 4
Simmer for another 10–12 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and allow it to melt into the luscious sauce.
Step 5
Meanwhile, cook pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and add directly to the skillet, tossing to ensure every strand is enveloped in the delectable sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
Storage Options
Leftovers can be a lifesaver, and this dish stores beautifully. Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For extended storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to a month. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then gently reheat on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to revive the creamy consistency.
Variations & Substitutions
To tailor this dish to your dietary needs, consider substituting the pasta with gluten-free options like rice noodles or spiralized zucchini for a low-carb variation. Adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach can introduce new dimensions of flavor, while a dash of chili flakes can spice things up for those who prefer a little heat.
Serving Suggestions
This enticing dish is versatile enough for numerous occasions and settings. Serve it on a casual weeknight with a side of crispy garlic bread and a simple green salad for that homely touch. It also pairs well with a crisp glass of white wine, making it apt for dinner parties or romantic evenings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make it ahead by preparing the sauce and chicken separately. Cook the pasta fresh before serving, combining everything together with a splash of broth to keep it vibrant and creamy.
What type of pasta works best?
While fettuccine and linguine are classic choices that work wonders with this creamy sauce, feel free to experiment with other types of pasta such as penne or rigatoni, which can hold ample amounts of sauce with each bite.
Is there a dairy-free option available?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with Coconut Cream for a dairy-free alternative, and opt for nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for that cheesy flavor. You’ll have an equally satisfying dish without the dairy.
Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta – A Date Night Delight
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs salmon fillets patted dry and cut into chunks
- 1 lb fettuccine pasta cooked al dente
- 3 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes drained and chopped
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1.5 cups Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 cups fresh spinach roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground, to taste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add salmon chunks and cook each side for 3-4 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and butter. Sauté onions for 3 minutes until translucent, then add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for another minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted. Add Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss it in the sauce. Gently mix in the salmon pieces and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
