Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe (30 Min)
Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that life can get pretty hectic. Between work, family, and everything in between, finding time to whip up a delicious meal can feel like a daunting task. That’s where my Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe (30 Min) comes in! This creamy, dreamy dish is not only quick to prepare but also guaranteed to impress your loved ones. Imagine serving a plate of this delightful pasta, and watching their faces light up with joy. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for busy nights!
Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe (30 Min)
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe (30 Min) is a lifesaver for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just half an hour from start to finish. The creamy sauce, combined with tender chicken and vibrant veggies, creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal with loved ones!
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe (30 Min)
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe (30 Min) a success. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Penne pasta: This shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully, but feel free to swap it for your favorite pasta.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and quick to cook, they’re the star of this dish. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Olive oil: A staple in my kitchen, it adds flavor and helps sear the chicken perfectly.
- Heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half.
- Chicken broth: It enhances the flavor of the sauce. Homemade is great, but store-bought works just as well.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: These little gems add a burst of tangy sweetness. You can find them in jars or dried; just soak the dried ones in water first.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully into the sauce, adding color and nutrients. You can substitute it with kale if you prefer.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated for easy melting, it adds a savory depth. Pecorino Romano is a tasty alternative.
- Garlic: Minced garlic brings a wonderful aroma and flavor. Fresh is best, but jarred works in a pinch.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, adjust to your taste.
For those who like a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce. And if you’re looking for a different protein, shrimp or tofu can be great substitutes. You’ll find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe (30 Min)
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe (30 Min)! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. A little tip: drizzle a bit of olive oil on the pasta to keep it from clumping together.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. While it warms up, season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chicken in the skillet. Sear each side for about 6-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when the juices run clear. After cooking, remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! Next, toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts down, which should take just a couple of minutes. This step adds a lovely color and flavor to your dish.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Now it’s time to make that luscious sauce! Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. As it heats, add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth. If you like a little kick, this is the perfect moment to sprinkle in some red pepper flakes!
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Finally, add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in that creamy sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired. Trust me, your family will be swooning over this dish!
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.
- Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Feel free to customize the veggies based on what you have on hand.
- For a creamier sauce, add a splash more heavy cream at the end.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: For boiling pasta. A deep skillet works too!
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for easy cooking and cleanup.
- Meat thermometer: Optional, but great for ensuring chicken is cooked perfectly.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and combining ingredients.
Variations of Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe (30 Min)
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap the chicken for grilled zucchini or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Seafood Twist: Use shrimp or scallops instead of chicken for a delightful seafood version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute penne with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or parsley for an aromatic touch that brightens the dish.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who love heat.
Serving Suggestions for Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe (30 Min)
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for a comforting touch.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, enhances the flavors of the dish.
- Presentation: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs about Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe (30 Min)
Can I make this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe (30 Min) ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works well. You can also use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative, though it will change the flavor slightly.
How do I store leftovers from the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe (30 Min)?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
While fresh chicken is best, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and safety.
Is this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe (30 Min) suitable for kids?
Definitely! The creamy sauce and tender chicken are usually a hit with kids. You can adjust the seasoning to suit their taste, and even sneak in extra veggies if you like!
Summarizing the Joy of Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe (30 Min)
There’s something truly magical about sharing a meal that’s both quick and delicious. My Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe (30 Min) brings joy to the table, transforming a busy night into a delightful culinary experience. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant veggies create a symphony of flavors that will have your loved ones raving. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can spend more time enjoying each other’s company. Whether it’s a family dinner or a romantic date night, this dish is sure to impress and create lasting memories around the dinner table!
PrintMarry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe (30 Min) – Impress Tonight!
A creamy and delicious Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe that can be prepared in just 30 minutes, perfect for impressing your loved ones.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, cooking until spinach wilts.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
