Description

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dish so delightful it has become synonymous with winning hearts through cooking. With roots in the famous “Marry Me Chicken” recipe, this pasta version enhances that concept, combining the magic of creamy sauces, sun-dried tomatoes, and tender chicken with perfectly al dente pasta.

Ingredients

Chicken and Pasta
Chicken breasts – Boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces for quicker cooking.
Penne pasta – Holds the creamy sauce perfectly, though you can also use fettuccine or rigatoni.
Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning the chicken.
Olive oil – For searing the chicken and adding a depth of flavor.
Creamy Sauce
Butter – Adds richness and flavor to the base of the sauce.
Garlic – Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth.
All-purpose flour – Helps thicken the sauce.
Chicken broth – Provides a savory backbone to the sauce.
Heavy cream – Makes the sauce silky and indulgent.
Parmesan cheese – Grated freshly for maximum flavor and smoothness.
Sun-dried tomatoes – Add acidity and a sweet, tangy flavor to balance the richness.
Paprika – Provides a touch of warmth and color.
Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that adds depth to the sauce.
Fresh basil – For garnish, lending brightness and fragrance.

Instructions

No Alcohol: This recipe avoids the use of wine, brandy, or any alcoholic ingredients, making it family-friendly.
No Pork Products: Traditional ingredients like pancetta or bacon are swapped for alternatives like turkey ham to suit dietary preferences.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and replace flour with cornstarch to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
Vegetarian-Friendly Modifications: Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and the chicken with mushrooms or tofu for a plant-based version.

Notes

Substitute Options: If you prefer to avoid heavy cream, half-and-half or Greek yogurt can lighten the sauce without losing its creaminess. Similarly, turkey breast or tofu works as excellent alternatives to chicken for variety.
Make it Vegetarian: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and swap chicken for mushrooms or spinach to keep the dish plant-based.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch to ensure the dish suits gluten-sensitive diets.