How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach

Discover the best Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach recipe, packed with creamy flavors, tender chicken, and fresh spinach. Perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion. Learn how to make this easy, delicious, and impressive dish with step-by-step instructions.

Check out more easy weeknight pasta recipes , Ditalini pasta recipe , Garlic parmesan chicken pasta .

Why “Marry Me” Chicken Pasta? The Romantic Appeal of This Dish

The name “Marry Me” Chicken Pasta with Spinach immediately sparks curiosity. It’s not just a catchy name—there’s a deeper reason why this dish carries such a romantic appeal. Many foodies and home cooks alike have wondered what makes this chicken pasta recipe so special that it’s associated with marriage. Let’s explore why this dish has become a symbol of romance and how it has captured the hearts of people worldwide.

A Dish to Impress:

One of the primary reasons “Marry Me” Chicken Pasta is so romantic is because of how impressive it is to prepare and serve. While it doesn’t require an exhaustive list of ingredients, it strikes the perfect balance of elegance and comfort. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and sautéed spinach come together to create a dish that feels luxurious yet homey at the same time. It’s the kind of dish you serve when you want to make a lasting impression, which naturally makes it a perfect choice for a special date or proposal dinner.

Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach

To create a truly delicious and memorable Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, fresh spinach, and pasta, creating a dish that’s sure to impress. Below is a complete list of ingredients, along with measurements to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time.

Essential Ingredients

1. Chicken Thighs (boneless and skinless) – 4 large thighs (about 1 lb / 450g)

• Chicken thighs are recommended for this dish as they’re tender, juicy, and have a richer flavor compared to chicken breasts. If you prefer, you can substitute them with boneless chicken breasts.

2. Pasta – 8 oz (about 225g) of your choice (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)

• Choose your favorite pasta shape for this recipe. Penne and fettuccine are popular choices due to their ability to hold the creamy sauce well.

3.Fresh Spinach – 4 cups (about 120g)

• Fresh spinach is essential for this dish. It wilts down significantly when sautéed, adding a delicious freshness to the creamy pasta.

4. Heavy Cream – 1 cup (240ml)

• Heavy cream is key to creating that rich, creamy sauce that gives this dish its luxurious texture.

1. Parmesan Cheese (shredded) – ½ cup (about 50g)

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, salty depth to the sauce, enhancing the flavor profile of the dish.

6.Garlic (minced) – 3 cloves

• Fresh garlic adds an aromatic and savory kick to the creamy sauce.

7. Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons (30ml)

• Olive oil is used to sear the chicken and to sauté the garlic and spinach, bringing out their flavors.

8. Chicken Broth (or stock) – 1 cup (240ml)

• Chicken broth adds richness and depth to the sauce, balancing out the creaminess.

9. Sun-Dried Tomatoes (optional) – ½ cup (about 50g)

• Sun-dried tomatoes are optional but highly recommended. They add a tangy, slightly sweet burst of flavor to the dish, complementing the richness of the cream.

10. Salt – 1 teaspoon (5g) , Black Pepper ½ teaspoon (2g) , Red Pepper Flakes(1g)

Optional Ingredients

• Lemon Zest – 1 teaspoon (for added brightness)
• A touch of lemon zest can add a refreshing citrus note to balance the richness of the cream and chicken.
• White Wine (for deglazing) – ¼ cup (60ml)
• Adding a bit of white wine when cooking the chicken adds a delicate depth of flavor to the sauce and deglazes the pan, pulling up any caramelized bits for added flavor.

These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both decadent and comforting. The beauty of Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach lies in its simplicity, yet it’s packed with flavor that’s sure to make a lasting impression. Make sure to gather everything before you start cooking to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach

Creating the Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach is easier than it sounds, and with this detailed step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to prepare a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Follow the instructions closely for tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy, flavorful sauce that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken:
   Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). You can also add garlic powder or dried herbs, but the basic salt and pepper seasoning works perfectly for this dish.
2. Sear the Chicken:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs to the pan, skin-side down (if you are using skin-on chicken). Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
3. Remove and Rest:
   Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and place it on a cutting board to rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken stays moist. Once rested, slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces, depending on your preference.

2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta:
   While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of the cooking water for later use.
2. Set Aside:
   After draining, set the pasta aside and keep it warm. You’ll add it back to the pan later to combine everything.

3: Sauté the Spinach and Garlic

1. Heat the Oil:
   In the same pan you used to cook the chicken, add another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Cook the Spinach:
   Add the fresh spinach to the pan. It may seem like a lot at first, but it will wilt down significantly. Stir occasionally and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and tender.

4: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Add the Broth:
   Once the spinach is cooked, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth (or stock) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds flavor to the sauce.
2. Stir in the Heavy Cream:
   Reduce the heat to medium-low and add 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir to combine, creating a rich, creamy base for the sauce. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
3. Add Parmesan Cheese:
   Stir in the ½ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese, continuing to mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Season the Sauce:
   Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. If you want to add a touch of brightness, now is a good time to stir in a bit of lemon zest.

5: Combine the Ingredients

1. Add the Pasta and Chicken:
   Now that your sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the pan. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and chicken in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water to thin it out.
2. Simmer Together:
   Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the pasta, chicken, and spinach are evenly coated and heated through.

6: Serve and Garnish

1. Plate the Dish:
   Once everything is well combined and hot, plate the pasta with the chicken and spinach mixture. Make sure to scoop up some of that delicious creamy sauce with every serving.
2. Garnish (Optional):
   Garnish your dish with freshly chopped basil, additional grated Parmesan cheese, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little extra spice.
3. Serve Immediately:
   This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it immediately while it’s still hot and creamy.

By following these simple steps, you’ll have a beautiful Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach that’s sure to wow your guests and leave a lasting impression. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh spinach come together to make a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, making it perfect for any special occasion. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information for Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach

When preparing a delicious dish like Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach, it’s important to consider its nutritional value. This dish is rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins from ingredients like chicken, spinach, and Parmesan cheese. While it is indulgent, it can still be part of a balanced meal when enjoyed in moderation.

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving, assuming this recipe serves 4 people.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 600–700 kcal
• Protein: 40–45g
• Fat: 30–35g
• Saturated Fat: 10–12g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 10–12g
• Carbohydrates: 50–55g
• Fiber: 3–4g
• Sugars: 5–6g
• Cholesterol: 100–120mg
• Sodium: 600–750mg
• Potassium: 700–800mg
• Vitamin A: 40–50% Daily Value
• Vitamin C: 15–20% Daily Value
• Calcium: 20–25% Daily Value
• Iron: 15–20% Daily Value

Key Nutritional Highlights:

1. High in Protein:
   The chicken provides a substantial amount of lean protein, making this dish a filling and satisfying option. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as overall body function.
2. Rich in Healthy Fats:
   The heavy cream and olive oil contribute healthy fats, including monounsaturated fats, which can support heart health. However, it’s important to enjoy this dish in moderation due to its higher fat content.
3. Vitamins and Minerals:
   Fresh spinach is a great source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and iron, all of which contribute to immune function, skin health, and red blood cell production. The Parmesan cheese adds calcium, which is important for bone health.
4. Carbohydrates:
   The pasta in this dish contributes a moderate amount of carbohydrates, which provide energy. Choosing whole grain pasta can increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients, making the dish more filling.
5. Sodium:
   While this dish is not excessively high in sodium, the combination of chicken broth and Parmesan cheese can add up. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium chicken broth or reducing the amount of cheese.

Healthier Modifications:

To make Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach slightly healthier without sacrificing flavor, consider these substitutions:

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta: For added fiber and nutrients, swap regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options.
• Reduce the cream: You can substitute part of the heavy cream with a lower-fat option such as half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter sauce.
• Add more vegetables: While spinach is the star here, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to increase the fiber and nutrient density of the dish.
• Lower sodium: Use low-sodium chicken broth and opt for a smaller amount of Parmesan cheese to reduce the sodium content.

Frequently Asked Questions for Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach

Here are some commonly asked questions about Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach to help you make the best version of this dish and understand its various aspects better:

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer a leaner option. However, chicken thighs tend to be more tender and juicy, while chicken breasts may be a bit drier.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap the pasta for a gluten-free variety. There are many options available, such as gluten-free penne, spaghetti, or fusilli, which will work perfectly with the creamy sauce.

3. How can I make this dish lighter?

To reduce the calorie and fat content, you can use a lighter cream alternative, such as half-and-half or coconut milk. Additionally, you can use less Parmesan cheese or opt for a reduced-fat version. For more fiber, try using whole wheat pasta.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach can be made ahead of time. You can cook the chicken, pasta, and sauce, and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the dish, adding a little extra chicken broth or cream to loosen up the sauce if needed.

5. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes. These will add even more flavor and nutrients to the dish.

6. What should I serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach?

This dish is quite hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad or garlic bread for extra flavor. A light, fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing would pair nicely to balance out the richness of the pasta.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach is a mouthwatering and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh spinach, all tossed with pasta for a meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just craving something indulgent, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

The recipe is easy to follow, and you can make it even healthier by opting for lighter ingredients or adding extra vegetables. It’s a versatile meal that can be customized to suit different dietary preferences and is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Now that you’ve perfected this Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach, you might be interested in exploring more date-night recipes. Take a look at our recipe of How to Make best Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe for more inspiration!”

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