If you’ve ever dreamed of a dish so irresistibly creamy, flavorful, and comforting that it almost begs you to say yes, then this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need in your kitchen. Picture tender, perfectly seared chicken breasts bathed in a luscious garlic Parmesan cream sauce, spiced ever so gently with red pepper flakes and Italian herbs, all generously served atop al dente penne pasta. This dish strikes the perfect balance between hearty and indulgent, promising a rich taste experience that’s as impressive on a weeknight as it is for special occasions. The marriage of simple ingredients creates an unforgettable pasta dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient pulls its weight to create layers of incredible flavor and texture. From the mild creaminess of the heavy cream to the punch of parmesan cheese, every component is carefully chosen for delicious harmony.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein providing juicy, tender bites.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for achieving a golden, crispy sear on the chicken.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and moisture to the sauce without overpowering it.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with a subtle but aromatic kick.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Gives the dish just the right touch of warmth and heat.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Blends herbaceous nuances that elevate the overall flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce decadently rich and silky smooth.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
- 8 oz penne pasta: The perfect sturdy pasta shape to hold onto the luscious sauce.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A bright, fresh garnish to finish off the dish with color and vibrancy.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, generously season both sides of each chicken breast with salt and pepper. This step ensures the chicken will have a well-balanced flavor that shines through once cooked.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust. This will lock in the juices and create a lovely texture contrast in the final dish.
Step 3: Build the Flavorful Sauce Base
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside temporarily. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this quick step releases an irresistible aroma. Then, pour in the chicken broth along with the red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning to create a simmering broth that will deepen as it reduces for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Now, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and combines into a velvety smooth consistency. This luscious sauce truly brings the dish to life and will coat every bite beautifully.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken in Sauce
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy sauce on top of each piece. Transfer the skillet into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender, soaking up that rich sauce as it bakes.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is in the oven, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, ready to be the cozy bed for your creamy chicken.
Step 7: Finish and Plate
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest briefly to allow those delicious juices to settle. Serve each chicken breast atop a generous helping of penne pasta and spoon extra sauce over the top for maximum creamy goodness. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a splash of color and freshness.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
The fresh parsley garnish isn’t just for looks—its bright, slightly peppery notes cut through the creamy richness, balancing each bite. For an extra touch, sprinkle a little more grated Parmesan or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil right before serving to elevate the dish.
Side Dishes
This recipe stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli adds a fresh contrast that complements the rich pasta. Garlic bread or a warm focaccia also make fantastic companions if you want to indulge a little further.
Creative Ways to Present
Imagine serving the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe family-style in the skillet it’s baked in, so everyone can dig in straight from the pan—this invites cozy sharing and a relaxed atmosphere. Alternatively, plate each portion with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for a lovely twist that adds texture and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the chicken pasta cool completely, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will remain delicious for up to 3 days. The sauce beautifully preserves its creaminess, and the chicken stays tender.
Freezing
Though best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this dish for longer storage. Keep the chicken and pasta in the sauce sealed tightly in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When thawed, some separation might occur, but a quick stir while reheating will bring back the luscious texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce seems too thick. This keeps the chicken moist and ensures your pasta remains perfectly coated without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne is recommended for its ability to hold sauce well, but rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle would work wonderfully. Choose your favorite shape and enjoy the creamy sauce clinging to every bite.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, by substituting the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative and using a dairy-free Parmesan substitute, you can tweak the recipe while retaining much of the rich mouthfeel and flavor.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth that complements the creaminess without overwhelming it, but you can adjust the amount according to your heat preference or omit entirely for a milder version.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a dinner party?
Most definitely! You can prepare the sauce and chicken up to the baking step, store in the fridge overnight, then bake and assemble just before serving. This saves time and ensures your dish is fresh and hot for guests.
What wine pairs well with Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe?
A crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully, as their acidity balances the creamy sauce and enhances the herbal notes in the dish.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend giving this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe a try enough. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug, with a perfect harmony of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds and maybe even thirds. Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones or simply craving a comforting meal that feels a little special, this recipe is a guaranteed winner. So go ahead, make this your new favorite and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
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Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 25m
- Total Time: 0h 35m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring tender seared chicken breasts baked in a rich Parmesan and cream sauce, served over perfectly cooked penne pasta. This comforting recipe combines the zing of garlic, a hint of red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning for a delightful one-skillet meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta and Garnish
- 8 oz penne pasta
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken and sauce together.
- Season the chicken: Season both sides of the boneless, skinless chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Heat olive oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for searing the chicken.
- Sear the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and develop a delicious crust.
- Set chicken aside: Remove the seared chicken breasts from the skillet and set them aside on a plate temporarily.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, releasing its aroma into the pan.
- Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning into the skillet.
- Simmer to reduce: Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.
- Make the sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, combining until the sauce is rich, creamy, and slightly thickened.
- Return chicken to skillet: Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some sauce over them to coat and flavor the meat.
- Bake the chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Cook pasta: While the chicken bakes, prepare the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- Rest the chicken: Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes to lock in juices.
- Serve: Serve the baked chicken breasts over a bed of the cooked penne pasta.
- Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top to add a fresh, vibrant touch before serving. Enjoy your Marry Me Chicken Pasta!
Notes
- For best results, use an oven-safe skillet to seamlessly transfer from stovetop to oven.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Freshly grated Parmesan works better than pre-grated for melting and flavor.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
