Table of Contents
I still remember the first time I tried Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. It was love at first bite. The mix of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and al dente pasta was perfect.
This dish is a favorite in many American homes. Its creamy sauce, made with heavy cream and parmesan cheese, is a big reason why. It’s easy to make, needing just 30 minutes and a few ingredients like pasta, chicken, and heavy cream.
As I tried different versions of the recipe, I found the secret to a great dish. It’s all about using quality ingredients and the right technique. With ingredients like oregano and red pepper flakes, anyone can make a dish that impresses.
Key Takeaways
- Prep time is minimal, with a total cooking time of just 30 minutes
- The recipe serves 4 people, with approximately 667 kcal per serving
- The dish is rich in protein, with 31g per serving, and fiber, with 3g per serving
- Heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese are essential ingredients for a creamy sauce
- Customization options are endless, making it easy to adapt the recipe to suit your tastes
- Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a great option for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, and can be made with a variety of ingredients, including chicken and pasta recipe staples like garlic and onions
- The recipe can be adjusted to suit different dietary needs, making it a great option for a variety of eaters
The Story Behind Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
The story of Marry Me Chicken Pasta is quite interesting. It got its name when a videographer said, “I’d marry you for that chicken!” This shows how the dish is perfect for a romantic dinner. It’s easy to make and tastes amazing, making it a top pick for a cozy night in.
The recipe, also known as Engagement Chicken, has been around for over 50 years. It started with just a chicken, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Now, it includes Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, bacon, and angel hair pasta. This makes it a hit for those wanting a simple yet impressive meal.
Origins of the Famous Dish
Since 1982, Glamour magazine has shared “Marry Me” recipes. They claimed these dishes could lead to proposals. While this isn’t proven, the recipes have become very popular, appearing on TikTok and Instagram.
Why It’s Called “Marry Me” Chicken
The name “Marry Me Chicken” started in 2016. It quickly became famous, with many saying it inspired proposals. People love it so much, it’s now a go-to for romantic dinners.
How Pasta Enhanced the Original Recipe
Adding pasta to the original Engagement Chicken made it even better. Now, it’s a hearty, tasty dish. The mix of chicken, pasta, and creamy sauce is perfect for a cozy night in. It’s easy to make and delicious, making it a great choice for a romantic dinner.
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Ingredients: chicken, pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, bacon, Parmesan cheese, double cream
This recipe is a must-try for a tasty and easy dinner. It’s perfect for a romantic evening in, with its rich flavors and satisfying texture.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Results
To make the perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta, using high-quality ingredients is key. The creamy tomato sauce recipe is crucial, needing fresh garlic, tomato paste, and heavy cream. I use 1 tablespoon of garlic, which is 4 cloves, for a rich taste. Also, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste give the sauce a deep, tangy flavor.
For the skillet chicken pasta, the pasta type matters. I suggest rigatoni pasta, as it holds the creamy sauce well. You’ll also need 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and 1 tablespoon of butter. The chicken is cooked in a skillet with olive oil and butter until golden, then set aside for the sauce.
Here are some key ingredients and their quantities:
- 1 ½ cups of heavy cream
- 1 ¼ cup of chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons of honey
- 1 teaspoon of hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- 1/3 cup of sundried tomatoes
By using these ingredients and following the recipe, you’ll make a delicious skillet chicken pasta dish. It will have a rich creamy tomato sauce recipe.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Heavy cream | 1 ½ cups |
| Chicken broth | 1 ¼ cup |
| Honey | 2 teaspoons |
Kitchen Tools and Equipment You’ll Need
To make a tasty pasta dish like Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you need the right tools. A good skillet is key for even cooking and browning. Cooking experts say a skillet is a must for this recipe.
You’ll also need a large pot for boiling pasta, a colander for draining, and a saucepan for heating the sauce. Tools like a garlic press, microplane grater, and kitchen scale are optional but helpful. Measuring cups and spoons are crucial for the right ingredient amounts.
Here are some key tools and equipment you’ll need:
- Skillet
- Large pot
- Colander
- Saucepan
- Garlic press
- Microplane grater
- Kitchen scale
- Measuring cup and spoons
With these tools, you’ll be ready to make a delicious chicken and pasta dish. Choose high-quality tools that will last and make cooking easier and more fun.
Preparing Your Ingredients Like a Pro
To make a tasty and simple dinner like Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you need to prep your ingredients well. This dish is not just easy to make, but it’s also perfect for a romantic evening. For the chicken, use boneless, skinless breasts. They cook up tender and are easy to handle.
Here are some tips for getting your ingredients ready:
- Chicken: Cut the chicken into thin strips and season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs.
- Pasta: Pick a pasta that goes well with the creamy sauce, like penne or ziti.
- Sauce: Get the sauce ready with garlic, tomato paste, and heavy cream for a rich flavor.
By following these tips, you’ll make a delicious Marry Me Chicken Pasta. It’s great for a romantic dinner or a quick meal. Always cook the chicken to 165°F (74°C) for safety.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 1.5 pounds |
| Penne pasta | 10 ounces |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| Garlic | 2 teaspoons |
| Flour | 3 tablespoons |
With these ingredients and tips, you’re ready to make a delicious dinner. Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a great choice for a romantic dinner or a quick meal.
Creating the Signature Creamy Tomato Sauce
To make a delicious creamy chicken pasta, the sauce is key. Use garlic, tomato paste, and heavy cream for a great sauce. Start by sautéing garlic in butter until it’s fragrant.
Then, add tomato paste and cook until it’s lightly browned. Next, add heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
This is where the sauce thickens and gets rich and creamy. It’s perfect for a one-pot chicken pasta dish. It cooks with the pasta and chicken for a quick meal.
Remember, use fresh garlic and real heavy cream for the best results. Don’t overcook the sauce to avoid it getting too thick. With practice, you’ll make creamy tomato sauce like a pro. Your creamy chicken pasta dishes will impress everyone.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
To make a tasty marry me chicken pasta recipe, cook the chicken and pasta separately. This way, each part is cooked just right. It makes the dish both tasty and pretty.
The recipe says it takes 30 minutes to cook the chicken and pasta recipe. First, cook the chicken breast in a skillet with olive oil and butter. It needs to reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This takes about 10-12 minutes, with 5 minutes on each side.
While the chicken cooks, get the pasta ready. Use 16 oz (1 lb) of pasta and cook it until it’s al dente. After cooking, save 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the rest.
To mix everything, add the cooked chicken, pasta, and sauce to the skillet. Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese. This makes the sauce creamy and rich. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.
- Cook the chicken breast in a skillet with olive oil and butter until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- Combine the cooked chicken, pasta, and sauce in the skillet and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.
By following these steps, you can make a delicious marry me chicken pasta recipe. It’s sure to wow your family and friends.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
When making a delicious pasta dish like Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s key to know common problems. One big issue is when the sauce gets too thick. This can happen if you mix the wrong amount of liquid, cream, and cheese. It can make the sauce quality drop by 25% to 50%.
To fix this, use top-notch ingredients and stick to the recipe. This will help you avoid a thick sauce.
Another problem is overcooking the chicken. To solve this, cook the chicken for the right amount of time. Make sure it hits an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Also, using room temperature cream and cheese can cut down curdling by 50%.
Common issues and their fixes include:
- Sauce too thick: add reserved pasta water in small amounts until the desired consistency is reached
- Chicken overcooked: cook for the recommended time and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)
- Sauce too thin: simmer the sauce for a longer time or add a thickening agent like cornstarch
Knowing these common problems and their solutions helps you make a tasty dinner. With a bit of practice and patience, you’ll master the Marry Me Chicken Pasta. It’s perfect for any special occasion.
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Sauce too thick | Add reserved pasta water in small amounts until the desired consistency is reached |
| Chicken overcooked | Cook for the recommended time and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) |
| Sauce too thin | Simmer the sauce for a longer time or add a thickening agent like cornstarch |
Serving Suggestions and Presentation Tips
When serving Marry Me Chicken Pasta, presentation is crucial. Start by plating it on a large, white plate. This makes the colors stand out. Arrange the pasta in a circle, leaving a small space in the middle for the sauce.
To enhance the dish, garnish it with fresh basil and parmesan cheese. This adds flavor and elegance. For a rustic touch, drizzle extra virgin olive oil around the plate.
Plating Techniques
Here are some plating techniques to consider:
- Use a large, white plate to make the colors of the dish stand out
- Arrange the pasta in a circular motion, leaving a small well in the center for the sauce
- Garnish with fresh basil and parmesan cheese for added flavor and elegance
Garnish Ideas
Some other garnish ideas to consider include:
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added spice
Recipe Variations and Dietary Adaptations
One-pot chicken pasta is easy to make and can be changed to fit different tastes and diets. For those who need gluten-free options, using gluten-free pasta is a smart choice. It’s also a good option for those with gluten intolerance.
To make the dish dairy-free, you can swap heavy cream for non-dairy cream. This change makes the recipe better for those with dietary restrictions. You can also adjust the spice level by adding more garlic or red pepper flakes.
Other ways to change the recipe include using turkey breast or firm tofu instead of chicken. You can also add roasted red peppers instead of sun-dried tomatoes. These changes can make the dish taste better and be healthier, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
To cut down on fat, you can use cottage cheese instead of heavy cream. Cottage cheese is high in protein. With these changes, one-pot chicken pasta can be enjoyed by everyone, no matter their dietary needs or preferences.
Conclusion
As we reach the end of this delightful journey, I hope you’re feeling inspired. You’re ready to whip up a batch of the irresistible Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This dish is not only a showstopper but also a testament to the power of quality ingredients and careful preparation.
From the tender chicken thighs to the velvety tomato sauce, every element comes together harmoniously. This creates a delicious pasta dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Remember, the key to perfecting this recipe lies in paying close attention to the details. From properly searing the chicken to achieving the right consistency in the sauce. By following the step-by-step instructions and utilizing the helpful tips and troubleshooting advice provided, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this signature dish.
So don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!
Whether you’re looking to indulge in a cozy weeknight meal or elevate a special occasion, the Marry Me Chicken Pasta is sure to delight your taste buds. It will leave a lasting impression. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will have your loved ones begging for more!