Cozy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

A Dish to Fall In Love With

When the evening sun begins to set, a gentle warmth spreads throughout the kitchen, inviting friends to gather around the table. Here, we cherish the simple joys of cooking as we whip up our cozy chicken dinners, always focusing on flavor, comfort, and effortless execution. Our “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” is a celebration of home-cooked meals that evoke fond memories, made to seal lasting bonds. This dish transforms ordinary weeknights into cherished moments, marrying tender chicken with luscious pasta in a creamy, decadent sauce. Let’s create a delightful experience together that will have everyone coming back for more!

Quick Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: Italian
• Best Season: Year-round

What Makes This Dish Shine

• Delectable Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs, and creamy sauce creates a taste that’s both rich and refreshing. The dish wraps you in a warm embrace, making each bite a delightful experience.
• Easy to Prepare: This recipe features simple steps, allowing even novice cooks to shine in the kitchen. With clear instructions and minimal cleanup, it’s a hassle-free meal that can fit into any busy schedule.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this pasta dish is always a hit. The indulgent flavors make it special enough for celebrations while remaining approachable for weeknight meals.
• Versatile Ingredients: Using common ingredients in unique ways makes this dish delightful and adaptable. You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or proteins, allowing for creativity without the stress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 chicken breasts
• 8 oz fusilli pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Smart Ingredient Notes

• Chicken Breasts: Opt for fresh or thawed chicken for best results, ensuring tenderness and moisture.
• Pasta: While fusilli is a great choice due to its ability to catch sauce, feel free to use penne or rigatoni for a different texture.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Look for jarred varieties packed in oil for added flavor; these lend a rich depth to the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version, but be cautious as it won’t be as creamy.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
2. In a spacious skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides, then place them in the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest before slicing.
4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
5. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, basil, and oregano. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Once the sauce is nearly ready, add the cooked pasta (and spinach if using) to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in the creamy sauce.
7. Gradually stir in grated parmesan cheese until it melts and becomes creamy.
8. Return the sliced chicken to the skillet, coating it in the delicious sauce to warm through.
9. Serve immediately, garnishing with extra parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Best Results

• Let chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this enhances juiciness and flavor.
• Ensure the skillet isn’t overcrowded when cooking chicken for even browning.
• Feel free to add other veggies like spinach or bell peppers for a nutritious boost.
• Warm the dish slightly before serving to keep it at the perfect temperature.

Variations to Explore

• Vegan Version: Swap out chicken for grilled tofu and use a cashew cream or coconut milk for a scrumptiously creamy sauce.
• Mildly Spiced: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes during cooking for a gentle kick without overwhelming heat.
• Regionally Inspired: Incorporate Italian sausage or roasted red peppers to enhance the dish’s rustic flavors popular in central Italy.
• Family Friendly: Lower the garlic and omit sun-dried tomatoes for younger diners—luscious cheese and cream make it satisfying!

What Pairs Delightfully With This Dish

• Pair with a crisp garden salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to refresh the palate.
• A glass of sparkling water with lemon enhances flavors beautifully without overpowering the meal.
• For dessert, a light lemon sorbet perfectly complements the creamy pasta while providing a satisfying finish.

Make Ahead & Freezer Tips

• Meal Prep: Cook the chicken and sauce up to a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Warm gently before serving with fresh pasta.
• Freezing: Allow cooked pasta and sauce to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Label and freeze for up to three months.
• Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before gently warming on the stovetop. Add a splash of milk or broth to help rehydrate the sauce.

Presentation Ideas

• Serve the pasta in shallow bowls, twirling a serving into nests for a visually appealing dish.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves or arugula for a pop of color, adding to the cozy vibe.
• Mixing in a sprinkle of red pepper flakes elevates the presentation, making it look vibrant and delicious.

Essential Kitchen Insights

• Fresh herbs can brighten up flavors; consider using fresh basil instead of dried where possible.
• Cook pasta in well-salted water for the best flavor—salt enhances the taste significantly.
• Taste as you go! Adjust seasoning and creaminess to your liking, creating a dish tailored to your tastes.
• Use high-quality parmesan cheese for that authentically rich flavor that grocery store brands often lack.

Storing and Reheating Your Leftovers

Refrigerate any leftovers in a tightly sealed container for up to three days. When reheating, use a stovetop method to maintain creaminess, adding a splash of heavy cream or broth to prevent drying out. If using a microwave, cover the dish to retain moisture and stir every minute.

Your Questions Answered

• Can I use chicken thighs instead? Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more richness to the dish.
• How do I make it gluten-free? Consider using gluten-free pasta made from rice or corn.
• What if I’m not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes? You can easily replace them with roasted bell peppers or omit them entirely for creaminess without added texture.
• Can it be made dairy-free? Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream and use dairy-free cheese.
• Is it suitable for a special diet? This dish can be modified to suit various dietary needs like low-carb, by swapping pasta with zucchini noodles.
• How do I keep the pasta from sticking? Drizzle a little olive oil on the drained pasta, tossing it to reduce sticking as it cools.

Nutrition Overview

• Serving Size: 1 plate
• Calories: 660
• Protein: 35g
• Carbs: 65g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
  Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and measurements used.

A Warm Reflection

Cooking together has a magical way of bringing us closer, creating shared experiences over the clinking of forks and laughter. Our kitchens are where flavors meet, transforming simple ingredients into extraordinary meals that nourish our souls. With every recipe, we express love and community; this “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” is a perfect testament to that joyful journey of cooking, shared laughter, and cherished moments together.

The Enduring Joy of Cooking

At its heart, cooking is about bringing warmth to our tables and friends. We invite you to embrace the comfort of our Marry Me Chicken Pasta—let it inspire laughter and delight, making your mealtime magical. Share your experience, pin your favorite moments, and the ongoing culinary adventure can continue!

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

A creamy and decadent pasta dish marrying tender chicken and sun-dried tomatoes, perfect for cozy dinners and special occasions.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 660

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 pieces chicken breasts Opt for fresh or thawed for best results.
• 8 oz fusilli pasta Can substitute with penne or rigatoni.
• 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half for lighter version.
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped Use jarred varieties packed in oil for added flavor.
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated Use high-quality for richer flavor.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking the chicken.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced Sauté for added flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil For herb flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano For herb flavor.
• to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
2. In a spacious skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides, then place them in the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest before slicing.

Cooking

1. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
2. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, basil, and oregano. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Once the sauce is nearly ready, add the cooked pasta (and spinach if using) to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in the creamy sauce.
4. Gradually stir in grated parmesan cheese until it melts and becomes creamy.
5. Return the sliced chicken to the skillet, coating it in the delicious sauce to warm through.
6. Serve immediately, garnishing with extra parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Let chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking for enhanced juiciness; you can add other veggies for extra nutrition. Warm the dish before serving to maintain temperature.