Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Treat yourself to Marry Me Chicken Pasta—a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. The rich sauce and tender chicken are sure to make this a favorite meal!

Ingredients

• 2 large chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne or fettuccine works well)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Make Sauce: In the same skillet, add the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and stir in the Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Combine Ingredients: Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return to the skillet. Add the cherry tomatoes and spinach, and cook until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are tender.
5. Mix Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calorie Count: 550 kcal per serving

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
• Use Different Cheese: Substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

10 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor.
2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
   You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may be slightly less creamy.
3. Can I use frozen chicken?
   Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
4. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your Dijon mustard and chicken broth are gluten-free.
5. Can I add more vegetables?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
6. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
   The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
7. Can I use store-bought pasta sauce instead?
   You can, but homemade sauce will have a richer flavor.
8. How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
   Ensure not to overcook the pasta and toss it gently with the sauce.
9. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare it ahead and reheat it before serving.
10. What can I use as a garnish?
    Fresh basil, parsley, or additional Parmesan cheese are great garnishes.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and fresh ingredients makes it a meal that’s both satisfying and irresistible!

Print