Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Cozy Comfort Dish

As the seasons change and the air grows crisp, there’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of creamy pasta. Marry Me Chicken Pasta evokes those golden fall evenings spent around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter over a satisfying meal. The first time I made this dish, the aroma enveloped my kitchen, and my family gathered, their hearts warmed by the promise of a delightful feast. It became an instant favorite, one we now enjoy time and again, creating memories and cherished moments.

This delightful recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, easy to whip up yet crowd-pleasing enough for special occasions. Trust me, when you set this Marry Me Chicken Pasta on the table, you’ll experience the magic that brings everyone together. It’s a dish you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that won’t have you slaving away in the kitchen.
• Creamy and Delicious: The rich sauce envelops every bite, making it a creamy indulgence that comforts the soul.
• Family-Friendly: Picky eaters will adore this dish, ensuring smiles all around the table.
• Versatile: Dress it up with some fresh herbs or veggies, or enjoy it as is for a cozy meal.
• Great Leftovers: Marry Me Chicken Pasta packs well for lunch the next day, remaining just as creamy and delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• 1 lb chicken breast (cubed into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 10 oz rigatoni (uncooked)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp dried parsley
• ½ tsp salt (more or less to taste)
• Red chili flakes (to taste)
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated, divided)

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Chicken Instructions

1. Season the cubed chicken with 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp pepper.
2. In a gallon-sized resealable plastic bag, combine ½ cup all-purpose flour with 1 ½ tsp Italian seasoning, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp paprika. Place the chicken in the bag and shake to coat evenly. Remove from the bag, shaking off any excess flour, and reserve 1 tablespoon of the flour mixture.
3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side until nicely browned. Flip and cook for another few minutes until browned on the other side and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Pasta Instructions

4. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
6. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Mix to combine.
7. Add 1 tsp Italian seasoning, ½ tsp parsley, ½ tsp salt, and red chili flakes to taste. Stir well.
8. In a small bowl, combine the reserved flour mixture with 3 tablespoons of the sauce from the pan to create a paste. Add this back to the skillet along with ½ cup of Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce thickens.
9. Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce, stirring for about 1 minute until warm.
10. Return the chicken to the skillet, topping it with the remaining ½ cup of Parmesan. Mix everything well and allow it to cook uncovered for a few more minutes, letting the sauce meld and thicken to perfection.
11. Serve hot and enjoy the cozy flavors of this dish!

Variations & Creative Twists

• Zesty Lemon Twist: Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over your pasta just before serving for a bright, zesty flavor.
• Veggie Power: Add sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers for an extra pop of color and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, toss in some chopped jalapeños or a hint of sriracha directly into the sauce.
• Cheesy Delight: Experiment with a blend of cheeses; try mixing in some mozzarella for extra creaminess.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the chicken and sauce in advance, refrigerating them until you’re ready to cook the pasta and combine everything.
• Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
• Storage Suggestions: Leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Slicing Tricks: For even cooking, try to cut your chicken into uniform pieces, ensuring they all cook at the same rate.

What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 620
• Carbohydrates: 70g
• Sugar: 3g
• Fat: 30g
• Protein: 29g
• Sodium: 800mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, making weekday dinners a breeze.

Can I use different ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or substitute proteins.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How long does it last?
Leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta can be enjoyed for 2-3 days when properly stored.

A Cozy Closing Note

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace wrapped in creamy sauce, bringing families together at the dinner table. Each bite transports you to a cozy evening filled with laughter and love. Save this Marry Me Chicken Pasta to your Pinterest board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Enjoy creating beautiful memories with this comforting dish.