Simple and Delicious Marry Me Chicken Pasta Tasty Recipe

Discover the irresistible Marry Me Chicken Pasta Tasty recipe! This creamy, flavorful pasta with chicken (or vegan options) will quickly become your new favorite dinner. Easy to make, perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.

The Birth of “Marry Me Chicken”

To understand the origins of Marry Me Chicken Pasta Tasty, it’s essential to trace the name “Marry Me Chicken” back to its roots. The name was first popularized by a recipe circulating around the internet, particularly on food blogs and social media platforms. It’s said that this dish was so delicious that once someone tried it, they were convinced it could inspire a proposal!

The chicken itself is tender, juicy, and coated in a rich, flavorful sauce made with ingredients like cream, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes—tasting so incredible that it’s described as something that could prompt the ultimate commitment from a partner. The idea behind the name suggests that the flavor is so irresistible that anyone who eats it might fall head over heels, metaphorically proposing marriage after the first bite.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Tasty

Making Marry Me Chicken Pasta Tasty is easier than you might think! This delicious dish combines succulent chicken, a rich creamy sauce, and pasta, all in one indulgent meal. Below, we’ll walk you through each step of the process, from preparing the ingredients to serving the final dish. Let’s get started!

The ingredients needed for this Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe are fairly simple. For those who love exploring more types of pasta, consider looking at the creamy pasta variations like Creamy Ditalini Pasta or the light yet flavorful Pasta Recipe with Chicken Broth, both of which feature creamy bases and can be adapted with your favorite proteins.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680g)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (120 ml)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15 ml)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne)
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pasta

• Cook the pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes).
• Drain the pasta: Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken

• Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. This will ensure the chicken is flavorful from the inside out.
• Sear the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan and sear for about 6-7 minutes per side, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce

• Sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the pan and sauté for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
• Add the liquids: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
• Add seasonings and Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, remaining 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
• Add lemon juice: Stir in the tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors of the sauce.

4. Combine Chicken and Sauce

• Slice the chicken: While the sauce is simmering, slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces, depending on your preference.
• Combine the chicken with the sauce: Add the sliced chicken back into the pan with the creamy sauce. Stir to coat the chicken in the sauce and allow it to warm through for about 2-3 minutes.

5. Toss the Pasta

• Mix the pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water to thin it out and help the sauce adhere to the noodles.

6. Serve

• Garnish and plate: Once the pasta is well coated and everything is heated through, plate the dish. Sprinkle fresh chopped basil over the top for a burst of color and flavor. You can also add a little extra Parmesan for an additional creamy finish.
• Serve immediately: Serve the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Tasty hot, and enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness!

Pro Tips for the Best Results:

• Don’t overcook the chicken: For tender and juicy chicken, avoid overcooking. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes: The sun-dried tomatoes add a lot of flavor to the sauce, so choose a good quality brand or, if possible, make sure they’re packed in oil for extra richness.
• Make it spicy: If you love a bit of heat, don’t skip the red pepper flakes. They add a perfect kick to balance the richness of the cream.
• Add extra vegetables: For added nutrition and flavor, consider adding some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce. Simply sauté them with the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for a few extra minutes.

What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta:

• Garlic Bread: A side of warm, buttery garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to soak up any extra sauce.
• Side Salad: A light and refreshing side salad with a simple vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini make for a great side dish to add some crunch and color to your meal.

Vegetarian and Vegan Variations of Marry Me Chicken Pasta

The Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is beloved for its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, but what if you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan version? No worries! With a few simple swaps, you can recreate this delicious dish to suit a plant-based diet while maintaining that irresistible flavor. In this section, we’ll walk through the modifications needed to make both a Vegetarian and a Vegan version of the classic Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Vegetarian Variation of Marry Me Chicken Pasta

If you’re not vegan but prefer a vegetarian option, the dish is already halfway there! And For those following a plant-based diet, there are great options to make this dish vegetarian or vegan-friendly. If you love experimenting with different kinds of pasta, consider giving Ditalini Pasta Salad a try by checking out our recipe for Ditalini Pasta Salad, a refreshing take on pasta that’s perfect for a light meal or side dish.

Key Ingredient Swaps:

1. Chicken → Plant-Based Protein

• You can easily swap the chicken breasts for a vegetarian-friendly protein. Options include:
  • Tofu: Firm tofu is a great substitute. Press it to remove excess moisture, cut it into cubes, and sauté it until crispy and golden in place of chicken.
  • Tempeh: Tempeh has a slightly nutty flavor and dense texture, making it a good stand-in for chicken. Slice it thinly and cook it until crisp and golden.
  • Vegetarian Chicken Strips: Pre-made vegetarian chicken strips or nuggets can be used for convenience. They often come seasoned and ready to cook, which can save you time.

1. Dairy

• In the vegetarian version, dairy is still acceptable, so you can stick with heavy cream and Parmesan. However, if you want to make it lighter, you can also substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
• For the cheese, grated Parmesan works perfectly for flavor, but you can opt for vegetarian-friendly Parmesan if you want a non-animal rennet version.

Preparation Instructions (Vegetarian)

1. Cook the Pasta: Follow the same steps to cook your pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti) as described in the original recipe.
2. Prepare the Vegetarian Protein:

• If using tofu, press the tofu to remove excess liquid, cut it into cubes, and pan-fry in olive oil until crispy and golden. If using tempeh, slice and pan-fry in the same manner.
• Add the cooked tofu or tempeh into the sauce after preparing it.

1. Make the Creamy Sauce:

• Follow the same recipe for the creamy sauce with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan. Since you’re still using dairy, the sauce remains thick and flavorful.

1. Combine and Serve:

• Toss your cooked pasta with the sauce and add the vegetarian protein of your choice. Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy!

Summary of Vegetarian Changes:

• Swap chicken for tofu, tempeh, or vegetarian chicken strips.
• Keep the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
• Proceed with the recipe as described for the traditional version.

Vegan Variation of Marry Me Chicken Pasta

For those following a vegan diet, the dish can be made completely plant-based by substituting the animal-based ingredients with vegan-friendly alternatives. Here’s how to make a Vegan Marry Me Chicken Pasta without compromising on taste:

Key Ingredient Swaps:

1. Chicken → Plant-Based Protein

• For a truly vegan option, you’ll need to replace the chicken with a plant-based protein such as:
  • Tofu: Tofu is an excellent choice because it has a neutral flavor and absorbs the rich sauce well. For a crispy texture, press the tofu, cube it, and sauté it until golden brown.
  • Tempeh: Tempeh provides a nutty flavor and a firm texture, which makes it an ideal replacement for chicken.
  • Vegan “Chicken” Pieces: Many brands offer vegan chicken substitutes made from soy or pea protein, which mimic the texture and taste of chicken closely.

2. Heavy Cream → Vegan Cream Alternative

• Replace heavy cream with coconut cream, cashew cream, or a store-bought vegan heavy cream. These alternatives provide the richness and creaminess required for the sauce.
  • Coconut cream will add a slight coconut flavor, so if you’re not a fan, opt for cashew cream, which is neutral and creamy.

3. Parmesan Cheese → Vegan Cheese

• Instead of regular Parmesan cheese, use vegan Parmesan or simply skip the cheese and opt for a vegan nutritional yeast for a cheesy, nutty flavor. Nutritional yeast also has a savory umami taste, which helps replicate the richness of Parmesan.

4. Butter → Olive Oil (if applicable)

• If you’re using butter in any part of the recipe, substitute it with olive oil or another plant-based butter alternative.

5. Chicken Broth → Vegetable Broth

• Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for the sauce base. It still provides a rich, savory flavor without any animal-derived ingredients.

Preparation Instructions (Vegan)

1. Cook the Pasta: Follow the same instructions for cooking your favorite pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne).
2. Prepare the Vegan Protein:

• For tofu, press and cube it, then sauté in olive oil until golden and crispy. For tempeh, slice it thinly and cook it in the same way.
• Add your vegan protein to the sauce once it’s ready.

1. Make the Vegan Creamy Sauce:

• Use coconut cream or cashew cream in place of heavy cream. Add vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and mix in nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan to achieve the cheesy, savory flavor.
• Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning, just like the original recipe.

1. Combine and Serve:

• Toss the pasta with the creamy sauce and your choice of vegan protein. Garnish with fresh basil and, if desired, sprinkle additional vegan cheese or nutritional yeast on top for added flavor.

Summary of Vegan Changes:

• Replace chicken with tofu, tempeh, or vegan “chicken” pieces.
• Use coconut cream, cashew cream, or a vegan cream alternative instead of heavy cream.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Swap Parmesan with vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast.
• Use olive oil instead of butter (if needed).

Tips for the Best Vegan Version:

• Pressing Tofu: Be sure to press tofu to remove as much water as possible. This will help it absorb the sauce and become crispy when cooked.
• Cashew Cream: For a homemade vegan cream, soak cashews overnight, then blend them with water until smooth. This makes for a thick, creamy texture that works wonderfully in sauces.
• Flavor Adjustment: Since coconut cream can add a subtle coconut flavor, if you’re concerned about it, opt for cashew cream, which is more neutral.
• Nutritional Yeast: This is a must-have in vegan cooking for that cheesy, savory flavor. It’s great for sprinkling over the finished dish or adding directly into the sauce.

FAQs about Marry Me Chicken Pasta Tasty

Here are some common questions people ask about Marry Me Chicken Pasta Tasty. We’ve provided detailed answers to help ensure your cooking experience is smooth and successful.

1. What makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta so special?

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is special because it combines tender chicken (or a plant-based protein) with a creamy, flavorful sauce made from heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and Italian seasonings. The dish is rich, savory, and comforting, and the name comes from its irresistible taste—legend has it that this dish is so delicious, it could make someone want to “marry” you!

2. Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta in advance?

Yes, you can make Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time! You can prepare the creamy sauce and cook the chicken or protein a day before. When ready to serve, just reheat the sauce, add the cooked pasta, and combine everything. However, for best results, it’s recommended to cook the pasta fresh as it can absorb the sauce and become a bit soggy if stored too long.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine, penne, and spaghetti are popular choices, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well to the creamy sauce. Farfalle, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta would work well.

4. How can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta spicier?

If you like a little heat, you can easily add red pepper flakes to the sauce, as mentioned in the recipe. For an extra kick, consider adding some finely chopped fresh chili peppers or a few dashes of hot sauce. Adjust the spice level to your preference!

5. Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta without sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, you can! If you’re not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes, you can replace them with fresh cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even a splash of tomato paste for a slightly different flavor. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy, concentrated flavor, so you may want to compensate with additional seasonings if omitting them.

6. Can I make this dish dairy-free or vegan?

Yes! As we discussed earlier, you can make both vegetarian and vegan versions of this dish. For a dairy-free or vegan version, simply replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and swap the Parmesan cheese for vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast. You can also replace the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or a vegan “chicken” substitute.

7. How long will Marry Me Chicken Pasta last in the fridge?

Marry Me Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce before serving.

8. Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

While the dish can technically be frozen, the creamy sauce may not retain its original texture once thawed. If you plan to freeze it, store the pasta and sauce separately. Reheat the sauce on the stove and cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Tasty is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines delicious flavors, creamy textures, and the perfect balance of savory and tangy elements. Whether you’re making the traditional version with chicken, a vegetarian version, or a completely vegan twist, this recipe can easily be adapted to fit your needs. The dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, a special occasion, or impressing friends and family with a comforting, flavorful meal. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s called “Marry Me”—it’s that irresistible!

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