Introduction to Marry Me Chicken Pasta
What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta and why is it so beloved?
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of home cooks everywhere. This creamy, flavor-packed pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a promise of love on a plate. The combination of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious cream sauce creates an irresistible blend that makes it an ideal centerpiece for romantic dinners or cozy weeknight meals.
But why is it called "Marry Me"? Legend has it that the dish is so delicious that it will inspire a proposal! The rich, savory flavors are a result of fresh garlic, fragrant oregano, and the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making for easy cleanup—perfect for busy professionals who still want to impress.
If you're curious about what makes this recipe stand out, consider diving into The New York Times Cooking or BBC Good Food for broader insights on delightful pasta recipes. Trust me, after tasting this dish, you might just find someone asking to "marry me"!
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Creating your own Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not only a delightful culinary adventure but also a chance to impress someone special! Let’s break down the essentials and a few fun customizations you might want to consider.
Essential Ingredients
To whip up this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need:
- Chicken Breast: 650 g (1.4 lb) of boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, shiny and ready to add flavor.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, peeled and crushed for that aromatic kick.
- Sun Dried Tomatoes: 170 g (6 oz), finely chopped to give depth to your sauce.
- Oregano & Paprika: 1 teaspoon of oregano and 2 teaspoon of paprika for an irresistible spice blend.
- Dried Pasta: 250 g (9 oz) of your favorite variety, absorbing all that delicious sauce.
- Chicken Stock: 650 ml (2.75 cups) for a rich base.
- Double Cream: 150 ml (0.75 cups) to create a luscious texture.
- Parmesan: 50 g (2 oz), grated for that final cheesy touch.
- Fresh Spinach: 120 g (4 oz), packed with nutrients and color.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground to taste.
Optional Ingredients for Customization
Feel free to personalize your Marry Me Chicken Pasta with these optional additions:
- Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can elevate the flavor.
- Veggies: Toss in some mushrooms or bell peppers for extra nutrients and color.
- Protein Variations: Swap chicken for turkey or add shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Nutty Flavor: A sprinkle of almonds or pine nuts can add fabulous crunch.
By choosing these ingredients, you can create a dish that truly reflects your personality. Don’t forget to check out the full recipe for more tips on preparation!
Preparing Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Creating the Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not only straightforward, but it’s also a delightful culinary journey that brings the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, cream, and tender chicken together in a harmonious dish. Follow these steps to create a dish that might just win over your taste buds (and hearts).
Gather and prep your ingredients
Start by ensuring you have all the ingredients at your fingertips. You will need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Olive oil
- Garlic cloves
- Sun-dried tomatoes (finely chopped)
- Oregano
- Paprika
- Dried pasta
- Chicken stock
- Double cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Spinach
- Freshly ground black pepper
Preparing your ingredients ahead of time helps the cooking process flow smoothly and keeps you organized. Plus, everything is ready when you need it, leaving you to focus on creating that divine Marry Me Chicken Pasta!
Sauté the chicken to perfection
In a large, deep frying pan, drizzle in a tablespoon of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add those seasoned chicken pieces, making sure to sprinkle with some freshly ground black pepper. Sauté for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is beautifully browned on all sides. This initial step isn’t just about cooking chicken; it’s about building flavor layers that will elevate your dish.
Incorporate aromatics and spices
Once the chicken is perfectly sautéed, reduce the heat a bit. Now it’s time to add the aromatics! Toss in the crushed garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and paprika. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 3-5 minutes until the garlic softens and becomes fragrant. The earthy aroma filling your kitchen is just a hint of the delicious meal you are crafting.
Combine with pasta and stock
Now comes the fun part! Add your dried pasta and chicken stock into the pan. Mix everything thoroughly and make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on it; if you notice the liquid absorbing too quickly, a splash of boiling water can remedy that!
Mix in spinach and cream
As your pasta cooks, turn the heat down to the lowest setting after the time is up. Stir in the goodness of fresh spinach and double cream. This step not only enhances the creamy texture but also adds a pop of color to the dish. Cook for 1-3 minutes until the spinach wilts beautifully.
Add the final touch with Parmesan
Don’t forget the final flourish: sprinkle in that grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until it melts into the creamy goodness, creating an irresistible finish to your Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This step will leave you with a rich, cheesy, and luscious sauce that clings perfectly to your pasta.
Your delicious meal is now ready to impress! Enjoy every bite of your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, and don’t forget to share the joy—or at least the recipe—with your friends and family!
Variations on Marry Me Chicken Pasta
When it comes to Marry Me Chicken Pasta, there are so many creative ways to switch it up! Here are two delightful variations to consider:
Creamy Mushroom Pasta Alternative
Swap the sun-dried tomatoes for sautéed mushrooms for a delightful earthy flavor. Sliced button or cremini mushrooms can add a delicious meaty texture and pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce. Simply cook them down alongside the garlic before adding your chicken. This mushroom-infused version is perfect for those who crave a different twist!
Adding Roasted Vegetables
Why not elevate your dish by incorporating roasted vegetables? Bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus can add both color and flavor. Toss them in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast until tender. Mix them in just before serving for a vibrant, nutritious boost! For more tips on roasting veggies to perfection, check out this guide.
With these variations, your Marry Me Chicken Pasta will never feel repetitive!
Cooking notes for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Tips for working with sun-dried tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes can add a deep, rich flavor to your Marry Me Chicken Pasta. If you're concerned about their texture, finely chop them for a smoother incorporation into the sauce. For a boost in flavor, consider using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes—you can even use a small amount of their oil instead of olive oil in the recipe.
How to adjust cooking times for different pasta shapes
Cooking times can vary significantly depending on the type of pasta you choose. For shorter shapes like penne, stick to the recommended cooking time, but for longer shapes like fettuccine, keep an eye on it as it cooks. You might need to add more boiling water if it absorbs too much liquid. Just remember, the goal is tender pasta that soaks up all that delicious sauce!
For more tips on pasta cooking, check out this cooking guide for helpful insights.
Serving suggestions for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Suggested side dishes
To balance out the flavors of Marry Me Chicken Pasta, consider serving it with light and refreshing side dishes. A fresh spinach salad with a simple lemon vinaigrette complements the creaminess of the pasta beautifully. Alternatively, roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts provide a nutritious and vibrant addition. For a heartier option, garlicky sautéed green beans can enhance the dish's savory notes.
Perfect pairings for a full meal
To elevate your dining experience further, pair Marry Me Chicken Pasta with a delightful garlic bread or a side of cheesy breadsticks. If you're looking for a drink, a sparkling water infused with citrus is a refreshing choice. A flavorful herbal tea can also serve as a comforting end to your meal. This combination creates a well-rounded dining experience that will impress any guests.
For more side dish ideas, check out this resource on fresh salads to keep things light and delicious!
Time details for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Preparation time
Getting your ingredients prepped for the Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a breeze—allocate about 10 minutes for this step. Chopping the chicken and sun-dried tomatoes, and gathering everything you need will set you up for success.
Cooking time
Once you're all set, the cooking process takes around 25-30 minutes. You'll enjoy the enticing aromas wafting through your kitchen as everything simmers together.
Total time
In total, you can whip up this delicious meal in about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weekday dinner or a relaxed weekend culinary adventure!
Don't forget to check this guide on cooking pasta for tips on achieving the perfect texture. Have fun cooking!
Nutritional Information for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
When you're whipped up a lovely dish like Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s good to know what’s in it. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional insights to keep you informed:
Calories
Each serving packs in approximately 809 calories, making it a hearty option for dinner.
Protein
With around 60 grams of protein, this dish is an excellent choice for muscle recovery and keeps you feeling full longer.
Sodium
It contains about 709 mg of sodium, which is a reasonable amount. Just be mindful if you're watching your salt intake.
For more in-depth nutritional information, you can check resources like the USDA's FoodData Central or consult with a nutritionist. Eating flavorful meals doesn't mean you have to compromise on health!
FAQs about Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a fantastic make-ahead dish. Simply prepare the recipe up to the point before you stir in the cream and spinach. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you're ready to enjoy it, just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen it up before incorporating the cream and spinach.
What can I use instead of chicken?
If you're looking for alternatives to chicken in Marry Me Chicken Pasta, consider using turkey, tofu, or even shrimp. These options will still shine in the rich, creamy sauce and pair wonderfully with the pasta. Just remember to adjust cooking times based on your protein choice to ensure everything is perfectly cooked.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and can be enjoyed for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the pasta without the cream. Thaw and reheat, then add fresh cream when ready to serve for the best results.
Conclusion on Marry Me Chicken Pasta
In summary, Marry Me Chicken Pasta combines sumptuous flavors and comforting textures, making it a go-to dish for romantic dinners or cozy weeknight meals. Easy to prepare yet utterly impressive, it's sure to leave your loved ones asking for seconds. Give it a try and witness the magic for yourself!
For more delicious recipes, visit BBC Good Food or Epicurious.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Large frying pan
Ingredients
- 650 g Boneless & skinless chicken breast About 4 breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil See notes
- 3 cloves Garlic Peeled and crushed
- 170 g Sun dried tomatoes Drained and very finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Oregano
- 2 teaspoon Paprika
- 250 g Dried pasta See notes
- 650 ml Chicken stock See notes
- 150 ml Double cream
- 50 g Parmesan Grated
- 120 g Spinach
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a large, deep frying pan, heat the oil over a medium heat. When it's hot, carefully add the chicken pieces and a good sprinkling of pepper. Cook for 5 minutes stirring occasionally until all sides are starting to colour.
- Reduce the heat and add the garlic, sun dried tomatoes, oregano and paprika. Stir for 3-5 minutes until the garlic is softened.
- Add the pasta and stock and give everything a good stir and put the lid on. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Turn the heat to the lowest setting add the spinach and cream and stir very well for 1-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the cream is heated through. Check the chicken is cooked through and add more salt and pepper if needed.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the parmesan.
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