There’s a special kind of warmth that fills your kitchen when you embrace a recipe that’s as comforting as it is enticing. Picture this: the rich aroma of garlic sizzling away, blending harmoniously with the smoky notes of paprika, whisking you off into a culinary daydream. That’s the magic of my Marry Me Chicken Pasta—a dish so delicious, it’s bound to win over even the toughest of critics.
After a long week of repetitive meals and takeout boxes, I craved something that would rekindle my love for cooking at home. This recipe was born from a few pantry staples, transforming into a creamy, savory pasta that dances on your taste buds. With its blend of tender chicken thighs, sun-dried tomatoes, and a velvety sauce, each bite feels like a warm embrace.
Whether it’s date night or just a cozy dinner with family, this dish promises not just to satiate hunger but to evoke smiles and happy sighs at the dinner table. Let’s dive into this simple yet extraordinary recipe and discover how a little love and fresh ingredients can create a meal worth celebrating!
Why is Marry Me Chicken Pasta so irresistible?
Comforting and satisfying: This dish combines creamy, rich flavors with succulent chicken, making it the ultimate comfort food.
Quick preparation: In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal that will impress your guests without the stress.
Delectable flavors: The smoky paprika and sun-dried tomatoes elevate this pasta to gourmet status, ensuring you’ll savor every bite.
Versatile: Perfect for a romantic dinner, family gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week, it suits every occasion.
Crowd-pleaser: With its mouthwatering appeal, it caters to both pasta lovers and health-conscious diners alike. You can also try it with gluten-free options for a lighter twist!
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Ingredients
Get ready to create a dish that will steal hearts!
For the Chicken
• Boneless skinless chicken thighs – Tender and juicy, they soak up all the delightful flavors.
• Smoked sweet paprika – Adds a warm, smoky depth to the dish.
• Italian seasoning – A perfect herb blend that enhances the overall taste.
• Salt – Essential for bringing out the flavors.
• Black pepper – Adds a mild heat to the seasoning mix.
• Sun dried tomato oil – Infuses the chicken with a rich, tangy essence.
For the Pasta
• Farfalle pasta – Its shape holds the sauce beautifully, creating a delightful bite.
For the Sauce
• Butter – Adds richness that makes the sauce creamy and luscious.
• Dried shallots – A wonderful alternative to onions, providing a sweeter flavor.
• Minced garlic – The aromatic foundation that makes the dish irresistibly fragrant.
• Minced onion – Enhances the sauce’s complexity with its sweet undertones.
• Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 gluten free flour – Helps thicken the sauce without gluten, making it friendly for all diets.
• Chicken broth – Adds depth and a savory base for the sauce.
• Heavy cream – Creates that rich, velvety texture that everyone loves.
• Shredded parmesan – It melts beautifully and introduces a savory, nutty flavor.
• Diced sun dried tomatoes – These little gems add juicy bursts of flavor.
• Tomato paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor for a richer sauce.
• Diced spinach – Provides freshness and color while boosting nutrition.
• Chopped fresh basil – A fragrant garnish that brightens the whole dish.
Each ingredient in this Marry Me Chicken Pasta plays a vital role in crafting a meal that’s sure to delight your family and friends!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
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Wash the chicken and pat dry with paper towels. Ensuring your chicken is dry helps achieve a beautifully seared exterior that locks in flavor.
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Coat the chicken in a medium bowl with smoked sweet paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This aromatic blend will infuse your chicken with delightful flavors.
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Heat the sun dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Then, sear the chicken for 3 minutes on both sides until golden brown and fragrant.
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Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pan. Cook the chicken thighs for another 6 to 10 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring they’re cooked through.
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Set aside the chicken to cool while preparing the pasta and sauce. This rest allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
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Boil the pasta according to the package directions for al dente, then drain and set aside. This step creates the perfect pasta texture to absorb the delicious sauce.
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Melt butter in the same pan, then sauté the dried shallots, minced onion, minced garlic, sun dried tomatoes, and tomato paste with the pasta seasonings: Italian seasoning, salt, and paprika on medium-low heat for 2 minutes until fragrant.
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Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and diced spinach to the skillet. Cook until the sauce begins to thicken and the spinach wilts, creating a creamy consistency.
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Dice the cooled chicken into bite-sized pieces while the sauce cooks, ensuring even distribution throughout the pasta.
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Combine the diced chicken and pasta with the sauce in the skillet, stirring gently to coat each piece, and garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy this heartwarming dish with loved ones!
Optional: A sprinkle of extra parmesan enhances the creamy texture!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize this dish to suit your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a rich vegan version.
The flavors will still shine through, creating a creamy texture that everyone can enjoy! -
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
It’s an easy swap that keeps the beloved texture and taste, while everyone can partake in the meal. -
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for an extra dash of heat.
This simple addition transforms the dish, giving it an exciting twist that will make your taste buds sing! -
Vegetable Boost: Toss in more veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to enhance the nutritional profile.
These additions not only offer vibrant colors but also add a delightful crunch to each mouthful. -
Herbaceous Twist: Swap out the basil for fresh thyme or oregano for a different herbal note.
This simple change can lend a whole new character to your dish, making it inviting and fragrant. -
Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein choice suitable for seafood or plant-based diets.
These alternatives provide their unique flavors and textures, creating a refreshing take on this classic dish. -
Nutty Flavor: Toast some pine nuts or walnuts and sprinkle them on top just before serving for added crunch and flavor.
The nuttiness will complement the creaminess beautifully, adding another layer of sophistication to your meal. -
Zesty Finish: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta before serving to brighten the flavors.
This little touch can elevate the dish, making it feel lighter and more vibrant with every bite!
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth to revive creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat with a bit of added cream or broth to prevent drying out. Ensure the pasta is heated to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe serving.
Portion control: Consider freezing individual portions for quick and easy meals on busy days. Enjoy the comforting taste of Marry Me Chicken Pasta whenever you need!
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Imagine a delightful dinner spread that compliments your creamy, savory pasta masterpiece.
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Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up extra sauce, this classic side adds a crunchy texture and aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully.
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Garden Salad: Fresh greens and vegetables tossed in a zesty vinaigrette bring a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta dish. A vibrant salad is a great way to balance the meal.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender yet slightly crispy, the earthy flavor of roasted asparagus creates a satisfying counterpart to the creamy sauce, enhancing both nutrition and taste.
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Grilled Vegetables: The smoky char of zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant adds a depth of flavor that complements the chicken and elevates the meal to new heights.
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Red Wine: A well-structured Merlot or Chianti will enrich the overall dining experience, enhancing the pasta’s savory notes and bringing warmth to the evening.
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Tiramisu: For dessert, this classic Italian treat provides a sweet, creamy finish, delighting your guests and leaving them with sweet memories long after the last bite.
Each of these pairings brings its own unique charm to your table, creating a balanced and unforgettable dining experience!
Helpful Tricks for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Even Cooking: Ensure chicken thighs are evenly coated in seasoning for consistent flavor. This will make your Marry Me Chicken Pasta absolutely delightful.
Watch the Heat: Searing on medium heat ensures the chicken browns nicely without burning. Lower the heat when necessary to achieve that golden perfection.
Pasta Perfection: Always salt your pasta water! It enhances the pasta flavor, making every bite more enjoyable. Aim for a nice al dente texture for the best results.
Thickening Sauce: Stir in the Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free flour only after sautéing the aromatics. This helps prevent clumps and ensures a smooth sauce.
Resting Chicken: Allowing the chicken to cool between cooking and dicing retains moisture and juiciness in your pasta dish.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Marry Me Chicken Pasta in advance is a fantastic way to save time and make mealtimes even more enjoyable during busy weeks! You can season the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking, which allows the flavors to deepen. Additionally, cook the pasta and prepare the sauce (excluding the spinach and cream) a day ahead, and simply refrigerate them until you’re ready. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, gently reheat the sauce, stir in the cream and spinach until wilted, and then add the diced chicken and pasta for a quick and delicious dinner with just minimal effort. This way, you get to experience a comforting homemade dish without the fuss!
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken thighs for the recipe, look for boneless, skinless options that are plump and free of any dark spots or blemishes. Fresh chicken should have a slight pink hue and feel moist but not slimy. If possible, choose organic or free-range chicken for enhanced flavor and quality.
How should I store leftovers of Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Very simply! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To retain its creamy texture, you can reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a tightly sealed freezer bag or container. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it gently on the stovetop until warmed through, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick or too thin?
If your sauce turns out too thick, simply add a bit more chicken broth or cream, stirring gently until the desired consistency is reached. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered on low heat for a few more minutes; this will help it reduce and thicken. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind for Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! This dish can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta, like chickpea or brown rice pasta, and ensuring that all other ingredients, including the flour and chicken broth, are gluten-free. Additionally, feel free to substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative if you’re looking to make it dairy-free. Always check ingredient labels, especially if you’re accommodating allergies!
Can I customize the ingredients in Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Very much so! This recipe is versatile. You can easily add your favorite veggies—think bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms! For a spicier kick, try adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Just remember to adjust cooking times for any additional ingredients you plan to include, ensuring everything is cooked to perfection. Enjoy getting creative!
Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Dish That Steals Hearts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
- Coat the chicken in a medium bowl with smoked sweet paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat the sun dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Then, sear the chicken for 3 minutes on both sides until golden brown and fragrant.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pan. Cook the chicken thighs for another 6 to 10 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Set aside the chicken to cool while preparing the pasta and sauce.
- Boil the pasta according to the package directions for al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in the same pan, then sauté the dried shallots, minced onion, minced garlic, diced sun dried tomatoes, and tomato paste with Italian seasoning, salt, and paprika on medium-low heat for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and diced spinach to the skillet. Cook until the sauce begins to thicken and the spinach wilts.
- Dice the cooled chicken into bite-sized pieces while the sauce cooks.
- Combine the diced chicken and pasta with the sauce in the skillet, stirring gently to coat each piece, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.