Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Easy Dinner Recipe (Print Version)
Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich, flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion. Tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious cream sauce.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Foundation
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
12 oz dry pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)
03 -
2 tbsp olive oil
→ The Velvety 'Marry Me' Sauce
04 -
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
05 -
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
06 -
1/2 cup chicken broth
07 -
1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
→ Aromatic & Vibrant Accents
08 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
09 -
1 tsp dried oregano
10 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
11 -
5 oz fresh spinach
→ Seasoning & Fresh Finish
12 -
1 tsp salt, or to taste
13 -
1/2 tsp black pepper, or to taste
14 -
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Cut the 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Season them with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the 12 oz dry pasta. This sets the stage for your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta for Dinner Tonight.
02 -
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
03 -
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp dried oregano, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. This aromatic base is crucial for your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta for Dinner Tonight.
04 -
Pour in 1 1/2 cups heavy cream and 1/2 cup chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
05 -
While the sauce simmers, cook the 12 oz dry pasta according to package directions until al dente. Stir 5 oz fresh spinach into the sauce until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce.
06 -
Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh chopped basil. Serve your delicious Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta for Dinner Tonight immediately.
# Notes:
01 -
Feel free to swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for an even juicier texture in this pasta dish.
02 -
Leftovers of this Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth.
03 -
For a complete meal, serve this rich pasta alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the creaminess.
04 -
To enhance the sun-dried tomato flavor, you can add a tablespoon of the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar to the skillet when sautéing the garlic.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
02 -
Large pot
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Chef's knife
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
06 -
Grater
07 -
Tongs or spatula
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 1105 kcal
Total Fat: 58 g
Total Carbohydrate: 73 g
Protein: 75 g