How to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

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 tbsp olive oil
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)

Directions:

Chicken Instructions

Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning 1 lb of cubed chicken with 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp pepper.
Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a gallon-sized resealable plastic bag, combine ½ cup all-purpose flour, 1 ½ tsp Italian seasoning, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp paprika.
Coat the Chicken: Place the cubed chicken into the flour bag and shake it to coat the chicken evenly. Once coated, remove the chicken and shake off any excess flour. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the flour mixture for later.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until it browns on one side (about 3-4 minutes). Flip it and cook the other side until browned and it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, set the chicken aside on a separate plate.

Pasta Instructions

Cook the Rigatoni: In a pot, cook 10 oz of rigatoni according to the box instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 minced cloves of garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Make the Sauce: Stir in ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 cup chicken broth, and 1 cup heavy whipping cream. Mix well.
Season the Sauce: Add 1 tsp Italian seasoning, ½ tsp dried parsley, ½ tsp salt, and red chili flakes to taste. Stir to combine.
Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the reserved tablespoon of flour with 3 tablespoons of the sauce mixture from the pan to create a paste. Stir this paste back into the sauce along with ½ cup Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce and stir for 1 minute to warm everything. Then add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, topping with the remaining ½ cup of Parmesan. Mix until well combined and let it cook uncovered for a few minutes until the sauce is fully thickened.
Serve and Enjoy: Your Marry Me Chicken Pasta is ready to be served. Enjoy a delightful meal!

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dish that combines chicken, pasta, and a creamy sauce, creating a rich and delightful meal. One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it comes together. The flavors blend beautifully, making it comforting and satisfying. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or impressing your guests on special occasions.

Nutritional Benefits

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just delicious; it can also be nutritious. Here’s a quick look at what makes it a good choice:

Chicken: It’s a great source of protein, essential for muscle health.
Pasta: Provides carbohydrates, giving you energy.
Cream: Adds calcium which is important for bone health.
Vegetables: The sun-dried tomatoes add vitamins and antioxidants.

What to Serve With Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Pair this dish with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or roasted asparagus complements the pasta perfectly, adding color and nutrition to your plate.

How to Store Marry Me Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm it on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. If you think you won’t finish it in time, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on your chicken while it cooks. Overcooking can make it dry, so be sure to check the internal temperature.
Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little more chicken broth or cream. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer.
Pasta Cooking: Follow the pasta’s cooking time on the package to avoid mushy noodles. Always taste-check to ensure it’s cooked to your preference.

Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe! Here are a few variations you might enjoy:

Add Vegetables: Throw in some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to pack in more nutrients.
Make It Spicy: Add more red chili flakes or some diced jalapenos for a kick.
Substitute Pasta: You can swap rigatoni for penne, fettuccine, or any pasta you like.

FAQs

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or shrimp, adjusting the cooking times accordingly.

2. Is there a vegetarian version?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with extra vegetables or cooked lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

3. How do I make it gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and all-purpose flour. Ensure that all brands of ingredients used are gluten-free, particularly the chicken broth and seasonings.

Whether you’re looking to impress a date or enjoy a comforting meal with your family, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is sure to win hearts!