Let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish to whip up when I want to impress someone special—*Marry Me Chicken with Pasta*! This creamy, dreamy chicken dish is truly a showstopper, and I can almost guarantee it’ll make heads turn and hearts melt. Picture this: tender chicken bathed in a luscious sauce, all snuggled up with a bed of perfectly cooked pasta. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I first discovered this gem while trying to create a romantic dinner for my partner, and let me tell you, it worked like a charm! The sun-dried tomatoes and spinach add a pop of color and flavor, making each bite a delightful experience. Trust me, this dish is not just food; it’s love served on a platter!
Ingredients List
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice (I love fettuccine, but any shape works!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare *Marry Me Chicken with Pasta*
Alright, let’s get cooking! This dish comes together beautifully, and I promise it’s easier than you think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a romantic dinner ready in no time!
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, let’s tackle the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil—this is key for flavor! Once boiling, add your 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes for a perfect al dente. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside, but make sure to save a bit of that pasta water; it can help loosen the sauce later if needed!
Preparing the Chicken
Now, onto the star of the show: the chicken! Season your 2 boneless chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and let it cook undisturbed for about 6-7 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip it over and cook for another 6-7 minutes until it’s cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Making the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant—wow, it smells divine! Next, toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, stirring until the spinach wilts. Now it’s time to bring in the liquids! Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring everything to a simmer and then slowly add your grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce. Trust me, this sauce is the heart of the dish!
Combining Ingredients
Finally, let’s bring it all together! Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing everything gently to coat in that creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, just splash in a bit of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan if you like. And just like that, you’ve created a dish that’s sure to steal hearts!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! While I’m all about the deliciousness of *Marry Me Chicken with Pasta*, I know some of you like to keep an eye on the nutritional side too. Here’s what you can expect per serving (this is an estimate, so keep that in mind!):
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 30g
These values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, like the type of pasta or if you opt for light cream. But no matter the numbers, this dish is packed with flavor and love in every bite!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to dive into making *Marry Me Chicken with Pasta*, let me share some of my top tips for ensuring this dish turns out absolutely perfect every time!
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper when seasoning your chicken. It really elevates the flavor! If you want to kick it up a notch, try adding a pinch of Italian seasoning or some red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Pasta Choice: While I love fettuccine, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand! Penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options work wonderfully. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape you choose.
- Fresh vs. Dried: If you can, opt for fresh spinach instead of frozen—it just makes the dish feel fresher and brighter! And if you find sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, you can use that oil for extra flavor when cooking.
- Make It Ahead: This dish is great for meal prep! You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time and just toss in the pasta when you’re ready to serve. Just keep the pasta separate to prevent it from getting soggy.
- Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow your sauce to simmer until it thickens up nicely. This not only adds flavor but also gives it that luscious texture that’s perfect for coating the pasta.
- Garnish with Love: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley right before serving adds a pop of color and freshness that can really enhance the dish. Plus, it looks fancy for that romantic touch!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be ready to create a stunning and delicious meal that’s sure to impress anyone who sits down at your table. Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about *Marry Me Chicken with Pasta* is how easily it adapts to your tastes and what you have on hand! Here are some fun variations to keep things exciting:
- Different Pasta Shapes: While I adore fettuccine, don’t hesitate to switch it up! Try penne for a fun twist, or even whole wheat pasta for a heartier option. Gluten-free pasta works beautifully too, so you can cater to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor!
- Veggie Boost: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Toss in some cherry tomatoes or zucchini slices when you sauté the spinach. You could also add bell peppers for a sweet crunch or mushrooms for an earthy flavor. The more, the merrier!
- Herbaceous Flair: If you’re a fan of fresh herbs, consider adding basil or oregano to the sauce for a fragrant touch. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can also brighten everything up—wow, it’s like sunshine in a bowl!
- Cheesy Goodness: While Parmesan reigns supreme, mix it up by adding a bit of mozzarella for a gooey texture or some crumbled feta for a tangy bite. Just imagine that cheesy goodness melting into the sauce!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. It adds a whole new dimension of flavor that’s sure to wake up your taste buds!
- Protein Swap: Feeling like a change of pace? Swap the chicken for shrimp or even diced turkey! Just remember to adjust your cooking times accordingly; shrimp cooks up super quick!
With these variations, you can make *Marry Me Chicken with Pasta* your own while keeping that signature creamy goodness intact. Get creative and have fun with it—your taste buds will thank you!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving *Marry Me Chicken with Pasta*, I love to think about creating a complete meal that feels cozy and inviting. After all, this dish is all about romance and comfort! Here are some of my favorite sides and accompaniments that pair beautifully with this creamy delight:
- Garlic Bread: What’s a pasta dish without some golden, buttery garlic bread? It’s perfect for scooping up that luscious sauce and adds a crunchy texture that complements the creamy pasta.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, and a sprinkle of Parmesan makes for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and pasta. Plus, the crunch is just so satisfying!
- Steamed Asparagus: For a touch of elegance, serve some steamed or roasted asparagus on the side. The bright green color and slight crunch add a lovely pop to your plate and keep things light!
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze not only look stunning but also enhance the meal with fresh flavors and a bit of acidity to balance the richness.
- Wine Pairing: Don’t forget about the drink! A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir complements the dish beautifully, making it feel like a true restaurant experience.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots can bring a vibrant color to your table and add some nutritious goodness to your meal.
With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a well-rounded meal that not only delights the taste buds but also makes for a beautiful presentation. Trust me, your dinner table will look as lovely as the dish itself!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delightful *Marry Me Chicken with Pasta* and now you’ve got some leftovers—lucky you! Storing and reheating this dish properly ensures you can enjoy that creamy goodness all over again. Here’s how to do it right!
First, let the dish cool to room temperature before storing. This helps avoid condensation in your container, which can make the pasta soggy. Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta if you want to keep things fresh longer. Just remember, the pasta tends to get a bit mushy when frozen, so it’s best to keep it separate!
Now, when it’s time to reheat, I recommend doing it gently to keep all those flavors intact. If you’re reheating from the fridge, simply place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally to make sure everything warms evenly—this should take about 5-10 minutes. If the sauce has thickened too much, just add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to loosen it up and bring back that creamy texture!
For those who’ve frozen their leftovers, thaw the chicken and sauce in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Then follow the same skillet method for the best results. You can also pop it in the microwave, but keep it on low power and stir every minute or so to ensure even heating. And if you’re reheating the pasta, just a quick toss in boiling water for a minute will do the trick!
With these simple steps, you can enjoy your *Marry Me Chicken with Pasta* just as much the second time around. Bon appétit!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of cream?
Absolutely! While heavy cream gives that rich, luscious texture, you can substitute it with half-and-half or even a lighter cream if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be a bit less thick and rich, but it’ll still be delicious.
What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
No problem! You can use fresh cherry tomatoes instead. Just slice them in half and toss them in when you add the spinach. They’ll add a lovely sweetness and freshness to your *Marry Me Chicken with Pasta*!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! I recommend cooking the chicken and sauce ahead of time and then adding the pasta just before serving. This way, everything stays fresh and delicious, and you won’t have to worry about overcooked pasta!
Is this dish gluten-free?
You can definitely make *Marry Me Chicken with Pasta* gluten-free! Just swap out regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you’re good to go!
How do I store leftovers?
For leftovers, let the dish cool down and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta. Just make sure to reheat gently to keep all those flavors intact!
Marry Me Chicken with Pasta: 7 Ways to Wow Your Love
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and flavorful chicken dish served over pasta, perfect for a romantic dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook in the skillet until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove and slice.
- Add garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, cooking until spinach wilts.
- Add chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens.
- Add cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use any pasta you prefer.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Add more vegetables if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: marry me chicken, pasta, creamy chicken dish, romantic dinner











