Name: Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (Use warm chicken for better blending with the sauce.); 8 ounces uncooked pasta (penne or fettuccine) (Reserve pasta water for sauce adjustment.); 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) (Adjust based on spice tolerance.); 1/3 cup dry white grape juice or chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream (Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.); 3-4 cloves garlic (minced) (Sauté until fragrant.); 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped) (Ensure tomatoes are well-drained.); 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (Serve immediately for best texture.); fresh basil leaves (chopped)

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Imagine a creamy, flavorful dish that brings everyone to the dinner table with eager anticipation—Marry Me Chicken Pasta does just that! This delightful meal combines tender shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich, creamy sauce that envelops perfectly cooked pasta. Its attractive presentation makes it perfect for date nights, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your loved ones.

As you sit down to enjoy this dish, you’ll experience the warm, comforting flavors meld together, creating a truly unforgettable experience. In this article, we’ll explore why Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a must-try, guide you through the preparation, and even provide tips for serving and storing it. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients like chicken and sun-dried tomatoes.
Ease of Preparation: Quick and simple, perfect for busy weeknights.
Nutrition: Packed with protein and vitamins, making it a healthier dinner option.
Versatility: Easy to customize with your favorite veggies or sides.
Presentation: A stunning dish that impresses at any gathering.

You’ll love making this pasta again and again!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes

Note that times may vary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Begin by selecting the right ingredients for this delightful dish:

Main Protein

What to Use: 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken.
Preparation: Simply shred the chicken from a rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken breast.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, you can use grilled chicken breast or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Tips: Ensure the chicken is warm to allow it to blend seamlessly with the sauce.

Starch/Pasta

What to Use: 8 ounces uncooked pasta, ideally penne or fettuccine.
Preparation: Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Substitutions: If you want a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
Tips: Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

Seasoning/Spice Blend

What to Use: 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional).
Preparation: Combine with the other ingredients during cooking.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, Italian seasoning works great too.
Tips: Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance.

Liquids/Dairy

What to Use: 1/3 cup dry white grape juice or chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream.
Preparation: Pour into the pan while creating the sauce.
Substitutions: If you prefer a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Tips: Avoid boiling the cream to prevent curdling.

Aromatics & Vegetables

What to Use: 3-4 cloves of garlic (minced) and 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped).
Preparation: Sauté garlic until fragrant before adding other ingredients.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, shallots can be used in place of garlic.
Tips: Make sure the tomatoes are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the dish.

Optional Finishing Ingredients

What to Use: 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves (chopped).
Preparation: Sprinkle cheese and basil over the finished dish as a garnish.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan option.
Tips: Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating this delicious dish is a breeze with a one-pan approach!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Stir in 1/2 tablespoon of flour to create a roux, cooking for about a minute. Then add 1 tablespoon tomato paste and mix well for another minute to deepen the flavors.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

Gradually pour in 1/3 cup of dry white grape juice (or broth) while scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Add Cream and Chicken

Slowly mix in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Then add the 2 cups of shredded chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Now, add the cooked pasta and 1/3 cup of sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine, and season with 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano and optional red pepper flakes.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Remove from heat and mix in 1/3 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

How to Serve

Presentation: Serve the pasta in shallow bowls, topping each with additional Parmesan and basil.
Accompaniments: Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Portions: This recipe serves about 4, perfect for a family meal or cozy dinner with friends.
Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a refreshing white wine or sparkling water for a lovely touch.

You’ll impress your guests with this gorgeous culinary creation!

Additional Tips

Flavor Enhancement: Add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the dish.
Customization: Feel free to toss in seasonal vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrients.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with a crusty baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.

Recipe Variations

Pesto Twist: Add a few tablespoons of pesto for a fresh, herbal flavor.
Mushroom Delight: Sauté sliced mushrooms alongside the garlic for extra depth.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños for a spicy version of this dish.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze in a container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or broth, as needed.

Special Equipment

Large skillet
Pot for boiling pasta
Colander
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw and cook it thoroughly before shredding.

2. Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
This recipe can be made gluten-free or dairy-free with appropriate substitutions, like gluten-free pasta and cashew cream.

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the sauce and pasta ahead of time, then combine when you’re ready to serve.

4. Can I customize the veggies?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers to suit your taste.

5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or cream to keep it creamy and delicious.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich and creamy dish that combines amazing flavors into one impressive meal. With its fresh ingredients and simple preparation, it’s perfect for family gatherings, romantic dinners, or a satisfying weeknight feast. Enjoy the delightful taste and presentation that will surely make everyone ask for seconds!