Creamy Marry Me Chicken combined with pasta has become one of my favorite go-to recipes. Picture tender chicken cutlets in a rich, creamy sauce, combined with the comforting twist of penne pasta. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a simple weeknight meal, this dish brings a sense of special occasion right to your table. You’ll find that the flavors meld beautifully thanks to garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and a touch of Parmesan cheese. Let’s dive in and see how you can create this delightful meal!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What makes Creamy Marry Me Chicken with Pasta so special? First, it’s incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re busy with work or just looking to spend a cozy night at home, this dish is your lifeline. It uses simple ingredients, and you’ll be surprised at how quickly you can get from stovetop to table. Plus, it’s absolutely comforting and family-friendly, appealing to kids and adults alike.
"This Creamy Marry Me Chicken is a showstopper at every dinner! My whole family asks for it regularly. It’s creamy, rich, and absolutely delicious!" – A satisfied home cook.
Step-by-Step Overview
Ready to get started? Here’s how we’re going to make this delightful dish:
- Cook the penne pasta in salted water until al dente.
- Prepare the chicken by slicing it into cutlets and seasoning well.
- Dredge the seasoned chicken in a flour and Parmesan mixture.
- Pan-fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy.
- Sauté onions and garlic in the same skillet to build flavor.
- Make the creamy sauce with broth, cream, and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Combine everything together with the cooked pasta and serve!
What You’ll Need
For this recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- water (according to package instructions)
- salt (according to your preference, make sure you salt your pasta water well)
- 8 oz or 230 gms penne pasta (can substitute with any pasta of your choice)
- 1 lb or 454 gms chicken breast
- 1 tsp salt (or according to preference)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder (can substitute with fresh garlic too)
- ½ + ½ tsp dried thyme + dried oregano (can substitute with 1 tsp Italian seasoning)
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp or 12 gms Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 2 tsp olive oil (can substitute with any cooking oil you prefer)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 3 to 4 cloves of garlic (smashed and minced)
- 1 small or 125 gms onion (finely diced, I’ve used red onion, you can use any type of onion you prefer)
- 4 to 5 cloves of garlic (smashed and minced)
- 1 cup or 240 ml chicken broth (can substitute with chicken stock, vegetable broth or any kind of broth/stock you prefer)
- 1 cup or 240 ml heavy cream
- ⅓ cup or 20 gms sun-dried tomatoes (drained and cut into 1 or ½ inch pieces)
- 1½ tsp tomato paste (can substitute with tomato puree, just use a little extra)
- 1 tsp sugar (can substitute with brown sugar or honey)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- ¼ cup or 25 gms Parmesan cheese (grated)
- fresh basil
- some more grated Parmesan cheese
Directions to Follow
Make the Pasta: Start by cooking your 8 oz or 230 gms penne pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve a cup of pasta water just in case!
Get the Chicken Ready: Cut your 1 lb or 454 gms chicken breast into cutlets. You’ll get two cutlets per breast. Season with 1 tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, ½ tsp garlic powder, and ½ + ½ tsp dried thyme and oregano.
Dredge the Chicken: In a separate bowl, mix 4 tbsp of flour and 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese. Dredge each chicken cutlet in this mixture, ensuring they’re well-coated.
Pan-Fry the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over low heat. Add in 3 to 4 cloves of smashed garlic, cooking until fragrant. Increase to medium-low heat and add the chicken cutlets. Cook each side for about 5 to 6 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Cook the Onions: In the same skillet, add 1 tsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter and sauté your finely diced 1 small onion until lightly browned. After about 5 to 6 minutes, add the remaining smashed garlic and sauté for an additional minute or two.
Make the Sauce: Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle boil for about 5 minutes. Then, reduce the heat and add 1 cup heavy cream, ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, and 1½ tsp tomato paste along with the spices. Stir and let it simmer for another 6 to 7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Combine Everything: Add your cooked chicken and any juices back to the skillet along with the penne pasta. Toss gently to combine. Allow it to sit for a minute to meld the flavors, then serve with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese on top.
How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Chicken with Pasta
Plate your creamy chicken pasta attractively. A generous scoop in a shallow bowl will allow you to showcase the beautiful colors from the sun-dried tomatoes and juicy chicken. Pair it with a simple side salad dressed in light vinaigrette or some garlic bread for a complete meal. A crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon makes a delightful accompaniment.
How to Store
To store leftovers, transfer any extra Creamy Marry Me Chicken with Pasta into an airtight container. It should keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. When reheating, do so on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Tips to Make It Perfect
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, good quality chicken, and real Parmesan cheese elevate the flavors.
- Don’t Skimp on Salt: Salting your pasta water is vital for flavor.
- Siesta Time for Chicken: Letting your seasoned chicken rest can deepen flavors—if time permits, try marinating it for a few hours.
Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own! Consider adding spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrients. If you’re looking to make it lighter, substitute with grilled shrimp or turkey cutlets. For a vegan twist, simply swap the chicken for tempeh or tofu and use plant-based cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make this recipe?
From start to finish, this Creamy Marry Me Chicken with Pasta can be ready in about 30 to 40 minutes. Perfect for a quick dinner!
Can I use different pasta types?
Absolutely! This recipe works beautifully with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or farfalle.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the Creamy Marry Me Chicken pasta for up to 3 months. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. Reheat when ready to enjoy!
Recommended Kitchen Tools
Professional Knife Set
This knife set is sharp and reliable, making it easy to prep the chicken and vegetables effortlessly.
Bamboo Cutting Board Set
Durable and practical, these cutting boards provide a great surface for slicing and prepping all your ingredients.
Mixing Bowls Set
These space-saving mixing bowls are perfect for marinating chicken and prepping sauces—ideal for any kitchen.
Enjoy creating this creamy, comforting dish that everyone will love! Your culinary skills will shine, and your loved ones will certainly appreciate the effort you invested in making something truly delicious.