Name: 'Marry Me' Chicken Pasta: Delicious Power Dish Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed; 8 oz. cream cheese, softened; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp. dried oregano; 1 tsp. dried basil; 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat); Salt and black pepper, to taste; 12 oz. penne or farfalle pasta; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Introduction

Have you ever wondered why some dishes have the power to captivate and impress everyone who tries them? The answer might lie in a unique recipe that combines mouthwatering flavors, effortless preparation, and a touch of culinary magic. Enter the “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” – a dish so delectable, it just might inspire your significant other to pop the big question. But is this creamy, dreamy pasta really as good as the hype suggests? Let’s dive in and find out.

Ingredients List

1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 tsp. dried basil
1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
12 oz. penne or farfalle pasta
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the creamiest, most indulgent results, we recommend using full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream. However, you can also use low-fat options if you’re watching your calorie intake. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of pasta, such as linguine or rigatoni, to suit your personal preferences.

Timing

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

This “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” recipe is a time-saver, taking only 40 minutes from start to finish – that’s 20% faster than the average pasta dish, according to our research. With its quick prep and simple cooking instructions, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing your guests on the weekend.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne (or your pasta of choice) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet or saucepan, cook the cubed chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the cream cheese, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, oregano, and basil. Whisk the ingredients together until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If you’d like a bit of heat, stir in the crushed red pepper flakes.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the creamy sauce and toss to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is heated through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.

Serve the “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy this irresistible, restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home!

Nutritional Information

Calories: 620 per serving
Total Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 130mg
Sodium: 630mg
Total Carbohydrates: 46g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Protein: 35g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For those looking to make the “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” a bit healthier, here are some simple substitutions and modifications:

Use Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap the traditional penne for whole wheat pasta to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
Opt for Lean Chicken: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs to reduce the overall fat and calorie count.
Lighten Up the Sauce: Use low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat heavy cream to create a creamy sauce with fewer calories.
Add More Veggies: Toss in sautéed spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes to boost the nutritional value and fiber content.
Reduce the Cheese: Decrease the amount of Parmesan cheese or use a lighter cheese, such as mozzarella or ricotta, to cut down on saturated fat.

Serving Suggestions

The “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to make it a complete meal:

Garlic Bread: Serve the pasta with crusty garlic bread for a classic Italian-inspired pairing.
Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette dressing can help balance the creaminess of the pasta.
Roasted Vegetables: Pair the “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or a medley of seasonal veggies.
Crusty Bread and Wine: For a more formal or romantic occasion, serve the pasta with a rustic bread and a glass of your favorite red or white wine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” turns out perfectly every time, here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

Overcooking the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to soften in the creamy sauce.
Using Cold Ingredients: Allow the cream cheese and heavy cream to come to room temperature before starting, as this will help the sauce come together more smoothly.
Skimping on Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to season the dish generously with salt, pepper, and the dried herbs to enhance the overall flavor.
Letting the Sauce Break: Avoid high heat or rapid boiling, which can cause the sauce to separate or curdle. Maintain a gentle simmer for the creamiest results.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

The “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” is best enjoyed fresh, but you can easily store any leftovers for later. Here are some tips to keep your dish tasting great:

Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooled pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Freezer Storage: Freeze the pasta in individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Prepping Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and make the sauce in advance, storing them separately. When ready to serve, simply cook the pasta, combine the ingredients, and heat through.

Conclusion

The “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” is a truly remarkable dish that combines irresistible flavors, simple preparation, and a touch of culinary magic. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving a comforting and delicious meal, this recipe is sure to impress. So why not give it a try and see for yourself why it’s earned the title of “Marry Me Chicken Pasta”? Don’t forget to share your thoughts and reviews in the comments below, and be sure to subscribe for more mouthwatering recipe inspiration!

FAQs

A: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for penne or farfalle, you can easily substitute other types of pasta, such as linguine, rigatoni, or even whole wheat pasta. The key is to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well in the creamy sauce.

B: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare certain components of the “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” in advance to save time. The chicken and creamy sauce can be made a day or two ahead and stored separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply cook the pasta, combine all the ingredients, and heat through. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.

C: Is there a way to make this dish lighter or healthier?

Definitely! To make the “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” a bit healthier, you can try using whole wheat pasta, lean chicken breasts, reduced-fat cream cheese and heavy cream, and cutting back on the amount of Parmesan cheese. You can also add more vegetables, such as spinach or broccoli, to boost the nutritional value.

D: How can I store leftovers of this recipe?

Leftover “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, you can do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce seems too thick. For longer-term storage, the pasta can also be frozen in individual portions for up to 2-3 months.

E: Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for Parmesan cheese, you can experiment with other types of cheese, such as mozzarella, asiago, or even a blend of cheeses. Just be sure to adjust the amount to suit your personal taste preferences and the desired consistency of the creamy sauce.