As the sun set, casting a warm glow over the kitchen, I knew it was the perfect time. I was going to make a dish that would please my taste buds and touch my heart. The “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” is a favorite of mine, a dish that adds romance to any meal.
This 30-minute meal shows the magic of simple, quality ingredients and a bit of creativity. The tender penne pasta is smothered in a creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce. This sauce pairs perfectly with the juicy, perfectly cooked chicken. With every bite, the flavors come together in a beautiful way, making you want more.
Key Takeaways
- Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a reader-favorite dish that combines penne pasta with a cheesy, sun-dried tomato sauce.
- The recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- The dish features a creamy, tangy, and savory flavor profile that creates a restaurant-quality meal.
- The recipe went viral on TikTok, showcasing its widespread popularity.
- The dish can be enjoyed as a quick, easy, and delicious meal.
The Story Behind Marry Me Chicken Pasta
The name “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” comes from its amazing taste. It’s said to be so good, it could lead to a marriage proposal. This dish, inspired by Italy, has become very popular. It’s loved for its creamy sauce and easy recipe.
Origin of the Name
The name “Marry Me” started with a 2016 recipe by Delish. A video producer said, “I’d marry you for that chicken!” after trying it. This funny moment made the dish famous.
Why This Dish Became Popular
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is loved for its rich taste. The creamy sauce, garlic, chicken, and sun-dried tomatoes are all delicious together. It’s also easy to make, which makes it a favorite for many.
Cultural Significance in Italian Cuisine
Even though it’s not originally Italian, Marry Me Chicken Pasta uses Italian flavors. It’s a favorite in Italian-American cuisine. Its focus on quality and simplicity has made it a hit for comfort and celebrations.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Dish
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a blend of key ingredients that make it unforgettable. At its core are boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. They add juicy texture and savory flavor. Penne pasta is the base, soaking up the creamy sauce.
Sun-dried tomatoes bring a burst of tomato essence. Heavy cream and Parmesan cheese make the creamy sauce. Garlic, chicken broth, olive oil, and butter add essential flavors. Fresh basil and flour complete it, with fragrant garnish and smooth sauce.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs | 3 pcs |
| Penne Pasta | 12 oz |
| Sun-Dried Tomatoes | 1/2 cup |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup, grated |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Chicken Broth | 1/2 cup |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Italian Seasoning | 1 tsp |
| Fresh Basil | 1/4 cup, chopped |
| Flour | 1 tbsp |
These ingredients come together to make the perfect chicken pasta recipes, romantic pasta dishes, and creamy pasta sauces. They’ll make your loved one say “Marry me!”
Kitchen Equipment and Preparation Tips
To make the perfect proposal dinner ideas or engagement meal ideas with chicken pasta for two, you need the right tools and techniques. Essential cookware, time-saving tools, and temperature control are key. These elements ensure a smooth cooking process.
Required Cookware
A large skillet or sauté pan is crucial for searing the chicken and making the sauce. You also need a pasta pot for cooking the chicken pasta for two just right. A colander is important for straining the pasta, and measuring cups and spoons help with portioning.
Time-Saving Kitchen Tools
- A garlic press makes mincing cloves easy
- A sturdy cheese grater quickly shreds Parmesan cheese
- A sharp chef’s knife or santoku knife makes chopping and slicing quick
Temperature Control Essentials
It’s vital to cook the chicken to 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety. An instant-read meat thermometer helps you check the chicken’s doneness accurately. Keeping the sauce at the right temperature is also important for a creamy texture.
| Preparation Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 minutes | 25 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 people |
With the right tools and preparation, you’ll create a memorable proposal dinner ideas or engagement meal ideas. The delightful chicken pasta for two will surely impress.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Step-by-Step Instructions
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a tasty Italian dish great for a couple’s pasta night, intimate pasta meals, or any special occasion pasta event. Follow these simple steps to make this delicious dish in your kitchen.
- Start by cooking the penne pasta al dente as the package says. Drain and set it aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a big skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until it’s golden, about 3-4 minutes each side. Take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter or ghee over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it smells good.
- Whisk in all-purpose flour to make a roux. Then, slowly add the chicken broth, whisking all the time to avoid lumps.
- Stir in the heavy cream or Nutpods and grated Parmesan cheese. Add oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes to taste.
- Let the sauce simmer, stirring now and then, until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the cooked chicken and sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce. Toss in the cooked penne pasta. Stir to mix well and heat through.
- Garnish the Marry Me Chicken Pasta with fresh basil leaves before serving.
This easy, one-pot recipe for Marry Me Chicken Pasta will surely impress your loved one. It’s perfect for a couple’s pasta night or intimate pasta meal. Enjoy this special occasion pasta dish and relish the flavors of Italy at home.
Creating the Signature Creamy Sauce
The secret to Marry Me Chicken Pasta’s irresistible flavor is its creamy sauce. This sauce is made by blending base ingredients, seasonings, and a special technique. It results in a velvety, indulgent texture.
Base Ingredients
The sauce’s heart is a mix of butter, garlic, flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream. The butter and flour make a roux, thickening the sauce. The chicken broth and heavy cream give it a creamy texture, making it so decadent.
Seasoning Balance
- Italian herbs like dried basil, oregano, and thyme add an authentic Italian taste.
- A bit of paprika brings a subtle smoky flavor and color.
- Salt and pepper are used carefully to boost the flavor.
Consistency Tips
- Begin by making a roux with butter and flour, cooking until it’s lightly golden.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, letting the sauce simmer and thicken.
- Stir in the heavy cream and simmer gently until it’s the right consistency.
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, tempering it into the sauce.
This sauce, with its perfect balance of richness, creaminess, and seasoning, is the highlight of marry me chicken pasta. It elevates the dish, making it a truly indulgent experience.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Italian herbs (dried basil, oregano, thyme) | 1 teaspoon each |
| Paprika | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Cooking the Perfect Pasta and Chicken
To make your chicken pasta recipes just right, focus on the cooking steps. First, boil the pasta as the package says, aiming for the al dente texture. This means it should be tender but still have a bit of firmness. It’s the perfect start for the creamy sauce.
For the chicken, cut the breasts into small pieces and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook them in a hot skillet with olive oil until they’re golden and cooked to 165°F (74°C). This step keeps the chicken juicy and adds a rich flavor to your romantic pasta dishes.
- Cook the pasta al dente, following the package instructions.
- Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes and season with salt and pepper.
- Sear the chicken in a hot skillet with olive oil until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes.
By carefully cooking both pasta and chicken, you’ll get a dish that’s both delicious and memorable. This focus on detail makes your chicken pasta for two a special and indulgent treat.
Plating and Presentation Techniques
Make your romantic meals, date nights, or special pasta dishes stand out with great plating. The Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not just tasty but also looks amazing when presented well.
Garnishing Ideas
Boost the look of your Marry Me Chicken Pasta with fresh garnishes. Add chopped fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of color and scent. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the pasta for a creamy and crunchy feel.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the Marry Me Chicken Pasta in wide, shallow bowls to show off the creamy sauce and tender chicken.
- Pair it with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a full and balanced meal.
- For a romantic touch, use fancy dinnerware and soft lighting, like candles, to make the meal special.
By paying attention to plating and presentation, you can make your Marry Me Chicken Pasta a memorable dish. It’s perfect for romantic meals, date nights, or any special occasion.
Wine Pairing and Accompaniments
A medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir pairs well with Marry Me Chicken Pasta. The wine’s acidity and subtle oak notes balance the dish’s creaminess. This creates a harmonious dining experience.
If you prefer not to drink alcohol, a refreshing sparkling water with lemon is a great choice. The effervescence and citrus notes cleanse the palate. They cut through the dish’s richness, making it a perfect match for this special meal.
Consider serving the Marry Me Chicken Pasta with roasted vegetables or a light Caesar salad. The fresh and crisp elements contrast nicely with the indulgent pasta. This creates a well-rounded and satisfying meal. It’s sure to impress your partner on special occasions like a couple’s pasta night or an engagement celebration.
FAQ
What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a favorite dish. It combines tender penne pasta with a cheesy, sun-dried tomato sauce. It’s quick to make, perfect for any day or special event.
Why is it called “Marry Me Chicken Pasta”?
It’s called “Marry Me” because of its amazing taste. People say it’s so good, it might even lead to a proposal. Its creamy sauce and easy recipe make it a hit.
What are the key ingredients in Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
You’ll need chicken, penne pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and heavy cream. Parmesan cheese, garlic, and chicken broth are also key. Don’t forget olive oil, butter, and Italian seasonings. Fresh basil and flour are important for garnish and thickening.
What equipment is needed to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
You’ll need a large skillet, pasta pot, colander, and measuring tools. A garlic press and cheese grater can make things easier. A meat thermometer is essential to ensure the chicken is cooked right.
How do you prepare Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Start by cooking the pasta until it’s just right. Season and sear the chicken in olive oil. Then, set the chicken aside and make the sauce in the same skillet.
Begin by sautéing garlic in butter. Mix in flour to make a roux, then add broth, cream, and cheese. Add sun-dried tomatoes and seasonings. Simmer until it thickens, then mix with chicken and pasta. Finish with fresh basil.
How do you make the signature creamy sauce?
The sauce starts with butter, garlic, flour, broth, and heavy cream. Italian herbs, paprika, and salt are key. To get the right consistency, make a roux, add liquids slowly, and simmer until it thickens.
For a lighter version, try using Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
What is the key to cooking the perfect pasta and chicken?
Pasta should be cooked al dente. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken in olive oil until it’s golden and cooked through.
Properly cooked chicken and pasta make the dish taste and feel its best.
How should Marry Me Chicken Pasta be plated and served?
Top with fresh basil and extra parmesan. Serve in wide, shallow bowls. Pair with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
For a romantic touch, use elegant dinnerware and soft lighting.
What are some recommended wine pairings and accompaniments?
A medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir pairs well. Sparkling water with lemon is a great non-alcoholic choice. Serve with roasted vegetables or a light Caesar salad to balance the pasta’s richness.