If you’re looking for a dish that will sweep someone off their feet, look no further than Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This creamy, savory delight combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. Perfect for date nights or special occasions, this dish is sure to make hearts flutter and taste buds dance. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process that will make this dish a star!
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup spinach
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of Marry Me Chicken Pasta contains approximately 550 calories, 30g of fat, 40g of carbohydrates, and 25g of protein. This is based on a standard serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the skillet.
4. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
6. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
7. Add cherry tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the tomatoes soften and spinach wilts.
8. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
9. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
10. Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce and add the sliced chicken on top. Garnish with parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. Additionally, you can replace chicken with shrimp or tofu for variations.
Serving and Pairings
Marry Me Chicken Pasta pairs wonderfully with a light salad or garlic bread. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the dish’s creamy texture beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may separate.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can make it dry; use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
- Don’t rush the simmering process for the sauce; it enhances the flavors.
- Adding salt too early can toughen chicken; season just before cooking.
- Ensure pasta is al dente; it will continue cooking in the sauce.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; stale herbs can ruin the dish.
Helpful Tips
- Marinate the chicken for extra flavor before cooking.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a richer taste.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made ahead of time for easy meals throughout the week.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, substitute chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make it healthier, use whole wheat pasta, reduce the cream, and add more vegetables to increase fiber content.
What can I serve instead of pasta?
You can serve the creamy chicken and sauce over rice, quinoa, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, perfect for impressing your loved ones. With its simple preparation and delicious results, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and watch the compliments roll in!
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz pasta fettuccine or penne
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add cherry tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the tomatoes soften and spinach wilts.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce and add the sliced chicken on top. Garnish with parsley.
