Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Marry me chicken pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken thighs with rich flavors in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this pasta will impress your family and friends alike. With its easy preparation and delicious taste, you’ll want to make it again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the entire meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the pasta or add extra veggies to customize it to your taste.
• Creamy Texture: The heavy cream and parmesan create a luxurious sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.
• Perfect for Sharing: Serving four hearty portions makes it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare marry me chicken pasta, having the right tools on hand will make the process smoother. Below are some essential items you’ll need to create this flavorful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet or frying pan
• Pasta strainer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling the pasta and ensuring even cooking.
• Skillet or frying pan: Perfect for sautéing the chicken and creating the rich sauce.
• Pasta strainer: Makes draining cooked pasta quick and easy.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results.

Ingredients

Marry me chicken pasta is a classic Italian dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to make. Named for how well the flavors marry, this delicious pasta features flavorful chicken thighs, spinach, and gluten-free pasta in a rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce.

For the Chicken

• 3 boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 3/4 tbsp smoked sweet paprika
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil (from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes)

For the Pasta

• 12 oz farfalle pasta

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp dried shallots
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp minced onion
• 3 tbsp Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 gluten-free flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded parmesan
• 1/4 cup diced sun-dried tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup diced spinach
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp smoked sweet paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt

For Garnish

• Chopped fresh basil

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a bowl, combine smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken thigh.

Step 3: Sauté Chicken

Heat sun-dried tomato oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken thighs and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add dried shallots, garlic, and onion. Sauté until fragrant. Stir in gluten-free flour to create a roux.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Gradually whisk in chicken broth followed by heavy cream. Bring to simmering point before adding parmesan cheese, diced sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, tomato paste, additional Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and salt.

Step 6: Finish Cooking

Return chicken thighs to skillet with sauce. Let simmer for about 5 minutes until everything is heated through. Finally, toss in cooked farfalle pasta until coated with sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious marry me chicken pasta!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Serving Marry Me Chicken Pasta can elevate your dining experience. This dish is versatile and can be paired with various sides and garnishes to enhance its flavor profile.

With Fresh Basil

• Adding chopped fresh basil on top gives a burst of color and freshness, complementing the creamy sauce beautifully.

With Garlic Bread

• Serve with warm garlic bread for a perfect pairing. The crunch of the bread contrasts well with the creamy pasta.

With a Side Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens adds a refreshing touch. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and a simple vinaigrette for extra zing.

With Lemon Wedges

• Include lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the rich flavors of the dish.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Perfecting Marry Me Chicken Pasta requires attention to detail during preparation. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes make a significant difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the farfalle until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference for a balanced flavor.
• Incorporate Fresh Veggies: Adding seasonal vegetables can enhance both nutrition and taste. Consider using zucchini or bell peppers.
• Make It Ahead: Prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then reheat before serving for an easy weeknight dinner.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Chicken Pasta can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some delightful suggestions:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted with garlic and olive oil adds color and nutrition.
2. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing that complements the pasta perfectly.
3. Steamed Broccoli
   Simple steamed broccoli provides a healthy green addition that pairs well with the richness of the pasta.
4. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing counterbalance to the creamy dish.
5. Herbed Quinoa
   Quinoa cooked with herbs makes for a nutritious side that’s also gluten-free, adding texture to your meal.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Tender roasted sweet potatoes bring a touch of sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory elements in the pasta.
7. Antipasto Platter
   A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses provides variety and depth to your dining experience.
8. Zucchini Noodles
   For a low-carb option, serve spiralized zucchini tossed lightly in olive oil as an alternative or additional side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to overlook certain details that can impact the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Adequate seasoning is crucial for flavor. Ensure you season your chicken and sauce properly with salt and spices.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long makes it mushy. Follow package instructions for al dente texture.
• Neglecting to prepare ingredients beforehand: Having all ingredients ready before cooking streamlines the process and prevents mistakes.
• Using the wrong type of pasta: Selecting a pasta that doesn’t hold sauce well can affect the dish’s overall texture. Stick with farfalle or similar shapes.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh basil elevates the flavor of this dish. Don’t skip this garnishing step for an aromatic finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• If freezing, use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Marry Me Chicken Pasta:

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While farfalle works great, feel free to substitute with penne or rotini based on your preference.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Consider using less cream or substituting it with a plant-based alternative. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.

Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prepping. Just follow storage guidelines.

What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

You can pair this dish with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for various ingredient substitutions and additions. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining friends, this creamy pasta dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy customizing it to your taste!