Meet the Marry Me Chicken Pasta, a quick and impressive dish. This delicious dish comes together in just 30 minutes and requires only one pot. It features succulent chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy, flavorful sauce that perfectly coats the pasta.
This rich and creamy chicken pasta is so mouthwatering, it might just spark a proposal. It’s the ideal dish for a romantic dinner, full of flavor and elegance. It’s great for date nights or any special event.
This meal is simple to prepare and requires minimal cleanup. It feels like enjoying a gourmet meal right in the comfort of your own home. The mix of savory and creamy flavors will wow your taste buds.
It’s a must-try for anyone who loves chicken pasta. It’s sure to impress and delight.
Contents
The Story Behind Marry Me Chicken Pasta
The “Marry Me Chicken” dish originally gained popularity as a flavorful chicken recipe, capturing the hearts of home cooks and food lovers alike. However, the pasta variation of this dish elevates it to an entirely new level. By blending all the beloved flavors of the classic chicken recipe with the richness of perfectly cooked pasta, this version becomes even more indulgent and satisfying.
The name “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” hints at just how irresistibly delicious it is — so much so that it could potentially spark a proposal. It’s the kind of meal that not only impresses with its taste but also creates an unforgettable dining experience, making it the perfect dish for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
The “Marry Me Chicken” recipe first appeared in Glamour magazine back in 1982. It claimed that the “Engagement Chicken” caused many proposals after being served. Since then, many recipes with a “marry me” theme have popped up, including vegetarian and chicken noodle soup versions.
In 2016, Lindsay Funston developed the recipe for Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. It quickly became popular after a video producer exclaimed, “I’d marry you for that chicken!” This moment added an extra touch of romance to the dish, making it an ideal choice for a memorable date night or a cozy, comforting meal.
While the “Marry Me Chicken” idea has won over many, it also raises some questions. Some say it promotes old-fashioned marriage ideas and gender roles. It makes people think about what marriage means today and its pros and cons.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | Approximately 20 minutes |
| Dishes Required | 2 pans (for the sauce and boiling the pasta) |
| Key Ingredients | Chicken breasts, olive oil, garlic, sundried tomatoes, tomato puree, oregano, paprika, pasta, double cream, Parmesan cheese, spinach, salt, pepper, and basil |
| Customization Options | Substitute chicken with prawns, bacon, or pancetta |
| Ingredient Substitutions | Recommended to use up on-hand products and reduce food waste |
| Serving Size | 2 servings |
| Ingredient Measurements | 2 boneless and skinless chicken breasts, about 400g in weight |
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe has grown from a simple chicken dish to a beloved comfort food. Its romantic charm, ease of making, and flexibility make it a favorite for cozy nights or special occasions.
Why This Recipe Will Make Anyone Fall in Love
The easy chicken pasta dish, known as “Marry Me Chicken,” is a true culinary masterpiece. It’s sure to win over both the hearts and palates of everyone who tastes it. This recipe is the ultimate romantic dinner, sure to make a lasting impression.
Perfect Balance of Flavors
The signature sauce of this romantic dinner recipe is a harmonious blend of creamy, tangy, and savory elements. Sun-dried tomatoes add a bright, acidic note that complements the rich, velvety cream sauce. Tender chicken, al dente pasta, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese create a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.
Restaurant-Quality at Home
Marry Me Chicken offers an unparalleled dining experience right in your own kitchen. Its elegant presentation and mouthwatering flavors rival the best restaurant-quality meals. It’s the ideal choice for a special date night at home.
Date Night Appeal
The sophisticated yet comforting nature of this easy chicken pasta dish makes it perfect for a romantic evening. The luscious, velvety sauce combined with the tender, savory chicken offers a decadent and satisfying experience. It will leave your partner feeling truly cherished and satisfied.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Dish
Making the perfect creamy chicken pasta starts with the right ingredients. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are at the core, providing lean protein. Sun-dried tomatoes bring a deep, savory richness to the dish with their bold, umami taste.
The creamy sauce is made with heavy cream or light coconut milk, mixed with Parmesan cheese. Fresh garlic adds a unique aroma. Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition, balancing the dish’s richness.
Other key ingredients include butter, olive oil, onion, tomato paste, and white wine. These elements combine to make a chicken pasta dish that’s both rich and balanced. A sprinkle of fresh basil finishes it off, enhancing the flavors.
With these ingredients, the Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is a hit. It promises a meal that will wow your guests and take them on a tasty journey.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the perfect one-pot chicken pasta, you need some basic tools. You’ll need a large pot for boiling pasta. Also, a deep-sided skillet or large skillet is key for cooking the chicken and making the sauce. Make sure you have essential measuring tools on hand, such as cups and spoons.
Essential Cookware
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Deep-sided skillet or large skillet for cooking chicken and making sauce
Measuring Tools
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Additional Equipment
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Meat thermometer
With these tools, you’re ready to make the tasty one-pot chicken pasta at home.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Get ready to be amazed by the marry me chicken pasta recipe. It has captured the affection and delighted the palates of people across the globe. It became famous on TikTok and even made it to The New York Times as their top recipe of 2023.
This dish was first called “Sicilian Chicken Skillet” in 2016. It quickly became a hit, earning the nickname “Marry Me Chicken.” Its mix of savory, creamy, and spicy flavors makes it a favorite for special nights.
The recipe centers on tender chicken, cooked pasta, and a creamy sauce. The sauce is made with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes. The chicken is seared and then baked, ensuring it’s moist and flavorful.
Complete your meal by pairing this dish with some delicious side options. Try Melting Potatoes, Parmesan Roasted Green Beans, or Cacio E Pepe Brussels Sprouts. Garlic & Feta Mashed Potatoes and Garlic Bread also go well with it.
Whether it’s for a romantic dinner or just a tasty meal, the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe will impress. Its delicious taste, simple preparation, and high-quality results make it a standout dish in your kitchen.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Creating a delicious chicken pasta dish is simple when you follow these easy steps. Start by seasoning your chicken with a generous amount of salt, pepper, and your favorite spices to enhance the flavors. Once seasoned, heat a large skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken until it achieves a golden, crispy exterior—this should take about 3-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken.
Once the chicken is perfectly browned, carefully remove it from the skillet and set it aside to rest. This step ensures the chicken remains juicy and tender, ready to be added back into the dish later.
Creating the Signature Sauce
In the same skillet, melt a generous amount of butter or warm up some olive oil over medium heat to create a flavorful base for your dish. Once the fat is heated, add finely chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the onions to soften and the garlic to release its aromatic fragrance.
This will build a savory foundation for the sauce. Next, stir in sun-dried tomatoes, which bring a rich, concentrated flavor, along with tomato paste for added depth. Pour in a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan, ensuring that any bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet are incorporated into the sauce.
Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes, allowing the ingredients to blend and the flavors to meld perfectly before moving on to the next step.
Next, pour in coconut milk or heavy cream and whisk until smooth. Add dried basil, paprika, onion powder, and oregano. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a thicker consistency.
Combining Components
As the sauce gently simmers, take the time to cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package. Once the pasta is cooked to your desired texture, drain it thoroughly, and then add it directly into the skillet with the simmering sauce.
Give everything a good toss, making sure the pasta is evenly coated with the rich, flavorful sauce. Next, stir in a handful of fresh spinach, tossing the ingredients together until the spinach wilts and blends with the pasta, adding both color and a fresh, vibrant taste.
At this point, carefully return the seared chicken to the skillet, gently folding it into the pasta mixture. This will allow the chicken to absorb some of the delicious sauce while remaining tender. For the final touch, generously sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top, letting it melt into the dish.
Garnish with a few fresh basil leaves to add a burst of color and fragrance. Serve the dish immediately, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures, and enjoy a visually stunning, mouthwatering meal that’s sure to delight everyone at the table.
Expert Tips for Achieving Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Elevate your homemade chicken pasta to a whole new level of flavor and sophistication with these pro tips. By following these simple steps, you can make your Marry Me Chicken Pasta taste just like it’s been prepared by a top chef in a restaurant.
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: To ensure your pasta maintains the perfect texture, always cook it al dente. This prevents it from becoming too soft or mushy as it absorbs the sauce. Al dente pasta offers a delightful bite that complements the creamy sauce without losing its structure.
- Sear the Chicken Properly: For a truly flavorful chicken, sear the chicken breasts thoroughly before adding them to the pasta. Achieving a golden, crispy crust on the outside locks in the juices, keeping the meat tender and moist. This not only enhances the taste but also adds a beautiful texture contrast to the dish.
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: For the best possible flavor, always opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties. Fresh Parmesan melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a silky texture and rich, creamy finish. The flavor will be much more intense and aromatic, truly elevating your pasta dish.
- Scrape Up the Browned Bits: As you cook the sauce, make sure to scrape up the browned bits stuck to the pan. These flavorful morsels, known as fond, are packed with concentrated taste. Incorporating them into your sauce will deepen the flavor profile, giving your pasta a richer, more complex taste.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency with Pasta Water: If you find that the sauce has thickened too much while simmering, don’t worry. Simply add a small amount of pasta cooking water to thin it out to the perfect consistency. The starchy water helps the sauce bind to the pasta, creating a smooth, cohesive dish.
By implementing these pro tips, you’ll be able to prepare a Marry Me Chicken Pasta that will impress even the most discerning guests. Each bite will be packed with flavor, making the meal unforgettable for everyone at the table.
“The secret to amazing Marry Me Chicken Pasta is in the details. These tips will make your dish taste and feel incredible.”
| Pro Tip | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Cook pasta al dente | Prevents a mushy texture |
| Sear the chicken well | Develops a golden-brown crust and enhances flavor |
| Use freshly grated Parmesan | Melts seamlessly into the creamy sauce |
| Scrape up browned bits | Adds depth and complexity to the sauce |
| Add pasta cooking water | Thins out the sauce to the perfect consistency |
Wine Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Make your romantic dinner even better by choosing the right wine. A Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the Marry Me Chicken Pasta. These wines’ crispness and brightness balance the creamy sauce.
Best Wine Selections
- Pinot Grigio
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Chardonnay (for a richer, creamier option)
Perfect Side Dishes to Complement Your Meal
To make your Marry Me Chicken Pasta even more special, consider adding a few flavorful side dishes to round out the meal. These sides not only enhance the taste but also create a well-balanced plate that’s sure to impress. For a classic choice, serve crispy garlic bread on the side.
The buttery, garlicky flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta, allowing guests to enjoy a delightful contrast in textures. A fresh green salad is another great option, offering a refreshing, crisp contrast to the richness of the pasta. Toss together some mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a burst of freshness that balances the meal.
For a more hearty addition, consider roasted vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers. The caramelized edges and natural sweetness of the veggies complement the savory chicken pasta, adding color and depth to your plate.
Presentation Ideas to Elevate the Experience
When it comes to serving your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, presentation is key. To create a romantic and elegant dining experience, opt for beautiful bowls to serve the dish. A carefully chosen, aesthetically pleasing dish sets the tone for the meal and enhances the overall experience.
Once plated, arrange the pasta neatly and place the seared chicken breasts on top, allowing the golden crust to shine through. To add a final touch of elegance, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and garnish with a few fresh basil leaves.
Not only does this look stunning, but it also adds a burst of fresh, aromatic flavor that elevates the entire dish. This thoughtful presentation will make your meal feel even more special and romantic, turning an everyday dinner into an unforgettable occasion.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that can be easily customized. You can change it to fit your taste and dietary needs. Here are some tasty variations and substitutions:
- Swap the chicken for shrimp or rotisserie chicken for added convenience.
- Enhance the dish’s nutrition by incorporating vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free pasta in place of the traditional penne.
- Lighten up the sauce by substituting heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
- Add a touch of heat by sprinkling in some red pepper flakes, or brighten the flavors with a sprinkle of lemon zest.
| Ingredient | Substitution | Nutrition Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Shrimp or Rotisserie Chicken | Shrimp offers a lean protein source, while rotisserie chicken provides convenience. |
| Penne Pasta | Gluten-Free Pasta | Gluten-free pasta caters to dietary restrictions and sensitivities. |
| Heavy Cream | Half-and-Half or Milk | Substituting with lighter dairy products reduces the overall calorie and fat content. |
| Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Tomato Paste | Tomato paste provides a similar flavor profile with less oil and calories. |
These versatile options let you tailor the pasta with chicken and veggies or chicken alfredo pasta to your liking. You can enjoy this delectable dish in a way that suits you best.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
The easy chicken pasta called “Marry Me Chicken” is great for date nights and comfort meals. It’s perfect for enjoying over several days. Here’s how to store and reheat it so you can enjoy every bite.
Leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta can stay in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat it again, you have a few ways to reheat it:
- On the stovetop: Reheat the pasta over medium-low heat. Add chicken broth or cream if the sauce is too thick.
- In the microwave: Reheat the pasta in the microwave, stirring often. This is quick and easy.
When reheating, do it gently. This keeps the chicken moist and the sauce creamy. A bit of extra liquid helps keep the dish as tasty as the first time.
With these easy tips, you can enjoy Marry Me Chicken Pasta for days. It’s a comfort food that’s simple to make and enjoy anytime.
Conclusion
The “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” recipe is a true culinary delight. It combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and al dente pasta perfectly. It’s great for a romantic date night or a comforting meal at home.
This dish impresses with its balanced flavors and easy instructions. It’s a favorite among home cooks for good reason.
The dish features aromatic garlic and herbs, luxurious Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. Each part works together for a memorable meal. You can choose chicken breasts or thighs and use heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative. This makes the recipe flexible for different tastes and diets.
Try this romantic “marry me chicken pasta” recipe and see the magic it can create. It’s perfect for cooking for someone special or for a treat for yourself. It’s sure to make a lasting impression and might even inspire a lifelong love for home-cooked meals. Bon appétit!
FAQ
What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a quick, one-pot meal. It has tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy sauce. The dish is so tasty, it might even lead to a marriage proposal.
Where did the “Marry Me Chicken” concept originate?
The “Marry Me Chicken” idea started as a simple chicken dish. Adding pasta makes it even better. The name suggests it’s so good, it could inspire a proposal.
What are the key ingredients in Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
You’ll need chicken breasts, sun-dried tomatoes, and heavy cream or coconut milk. Also, pasta, parmesan cheese, garlic, and spinach are key. Don’t forget butter, olive oil, onion, tomato paste, white wine, and basil.
What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
You’ll need a big pot for pasta and a skillet for the chicken and sauce. Use measuring cups and spoons. A whisk, wooden spoon, and meat thermometer are also helpful.
How many servings does the Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe make?
It serves 2-4 people and takes 30 minutes to make. You’ll need 2 chicken cutlets, 1 lb pasta, and 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes. Plus, seasonings and aromatics.
What are the steps for making Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
First, season and cook the chicken until it’s golden. Then, make the sauce with butter, onion, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. Add white wine and cream, then mix with pasta and spinach. Top with chicken and garnish with parmesan and basil.
What are some pro tips for making Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Cook pasta al dente and sear chicken well for flavor. Use fresh parmesan and scrape the pan for sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add pasta water.
What are some serving and pairing suggestions for Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Pair it with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio. Serve with garlic bread, a salad, or roasted veggies. Place chicken on pasta, garnish with basil and parmesan, and use elegant bowls.
What are some variations and substitutions for Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Try using shrimp or rotisserie chicken for ease. Add bell peppers or mushrooms for nutrition. Use gluten-free pasta and swap heavy cream for half-and-half or milk. Add red pepper flakes or lemon zest for flavor.
How should Marry Me Chicken Pasta be stored and reheated?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding broth or cream if needed. Stir often when microwaving.
