Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Marry me chicken pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken thighs with creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and gluten-free pasta. Perfect for romantic dinners or family gatherings, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also bursts with flavor. The marriage of ingredients creates a comforting meal that’s sure to impress anyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 5 minutes and total cooking time of 20 minutes, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The rich, creamy sauce enhanced by sun-dried tomatoes and spices brings out the best in every bite.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for various occasions, whether it’s date night or a casual family dinner.
• Gluten-Free Option: Using gluten-free pasta makes this dish accessible for those with dietary preferences.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required as most of the cooking happens in one pot.

Tools and Preparation

To make Marry Me Chicken Pasta efficiently, having the right tools on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This is essential for cooking the pasta and combining everything together easily.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while mixing ingredients thoroughly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors in the sauce.
• Knife and cutting board: Necessary for preparing your chicken, vegetables, and herbs quickly and safely.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 3 boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 3/4 tbsp smoked sweet paprika
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp sun dried tomato oil (from the jar of sun dried tomatoes)

For the Pasta

• 12 oz farfalle pasta

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp dried shallots
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp minced onion
• 3 tbsp Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 gluten free flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded parmesan
• 1/4 cup diced sun dried tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup diced spinach
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp smoked sweet paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt

For Garnish

• Chopped fresh basil

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with smoked sweet paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add dried shallots, minced garlic, and minced onion. Sauté until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Sprinkle gluten-free flour into the pot. Stir well to combine. Gradually add chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add heavy cream, parmesan cheese, diced sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, spinach, Italian seasoning, smoked sweet paprika, and salt. Stir until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add cooked pasta to the sauce mixture along with seasoned chicken thighs. Toss gently until all ingredients are coated in sauce.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving hot. Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta beautifully, adding freshness to each bite.

Add Garlic Bread

• Warm, toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the rich sun-dried tomato sauce, making every meal more satisfying.

Serve with Steamed Vegetables

• A side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus adds color and nutrition, balancing the richness of the pasta.

Top with Fresh Basil

• Garnishing with chopped fresh basil not only enhances visual appeal but also adds an aromatic layer that enhances flavor.

Include a Glass of Sparkling Water

• Refreshing sparkling water with lemon or lime serves as a palate cleanser between bites, making the meal feel more refined.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To ensure your Marry Me Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken thighs and quality sun-dried tomatoes can significantly enhance flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Be careful not to overcook the pasta; it should have a slight bite to it for better texture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to preference for maximum flavor.
• Balance Creaminess: If the sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency without losing flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Cheese: While parmesan is classic, try adding mozzarella or feta for different textures and flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Chicken Pasta can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these potatoes are seasoned with herbs that complement the pasta well.

2. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing salad that balances the richness of the pasta dish.

3. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan and croutons brings crunch and zest, making it a classic pairing.

4. Bruschetta
   Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil provides a vibrant starter that prepares your palate for the main course.

5. Grilled Zucchini
   Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini adds a smoky flavor and complements the creamy sauce without overpowering it.

6. Vegetable Stir-Fry
   A colorful mix of seasonal vegetables stir-fried in olive oil offers both flavor and nutrition next to your hearty pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using the wrong type of pasta: Not all pasta works well in creamy sauces. Stick to farfalle or similar shapes for the best results.
• Overcooking chicken thighs: Chicken can become dry if overcooked. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and let them rest before slicing.
• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your chicken and sauce can lead to bland pasta. Use smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, and salt generously.
• Not letting the flavors meld: Cooking the sauce too quickly means flavors won’t develop fully. Allow it to simmer gently for a richer taste.
• Using low-quality ingredients: The quality of your chicken broth and cream can greatly impact the dish. Always opt for high-quality ingredients where possible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Place in a freezer-safe container.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat until warm, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a pan over low heat, add a splash of broth or water and stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Marry Me Chicken Pasta:

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef if you prefer.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use coconut milk or cashew cream for a lighter alternative that maintains creaminess.

How spicy is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

This recipe is not spicy. However, you can add red pepper flakes if you’d like some heat.

Can I make this dish vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute the chicken with plant-based protein and replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative.

How do I customize my Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms based on your taste preferences!

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors with creamy goodness. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table!