Introduction
Prepare to fall in love with the most irresistible pasta dish that’s taking kitchens by storm! This “Marry Me” Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal – it’s a culinary experience that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. With its creamy sauce, perfectly cooked chicken, and aromatic herbs, this recipe is guaranteed to become a instant favorite in your home.
Ingredients
US Measurements
- 7 oz (200 g) Penne pasta
- 7 oz (200 g) chicken breast
- 1/2 cup (100 ml) whipping cream
- 2 cups (500 ml) chicken broth
- 1.8 oz (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 bunch fresh smooth parsley
- Tomatoes (optional)
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
Metric Measurements
- 200 g Penne pasta
- 200 g chicken breast
- 100 ml whipping cream
- 500 ml chicken broth
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 bunch fresh smooth parsley
- Tomatoes (optional)
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Wash the chicken breast, pat dry, and dice into bite-sized pieces.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces until they develop a golden color.
- Season: Sprinkle 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, and 1 tbsp dried oregano over the chicken, ensuring even coverage.
- Create the Sauce: Deglaze the pan with chicken broth and whipping cream. Bring the mixture to a brief boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Add penne pasta to the pan and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Finish the Dish: Finely chop the parsley. Two minutes before cooking is complete, stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
- Final Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Cooking Time and Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: Approximately 380
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
Pro Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use fresh chicken for the best flavor and texture
- Make sure to stir the pasta frequently to prevent sticking
- For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth
- Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow sauce to thicken
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with plant-based chicken alternatives or mushrooms
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta
- Dairy-Free: Substitute cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper
- Herb Variations: Experiment with basil or thyme instead of parsley
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the components in advance and combine just before serving.
Q2: How long will the pasta keep in the refrigerator? A: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Q3: Can I freeze this pasta dish? A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently.
Q4: What side dishes pair well with this pasta? A: A light salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this dish perfectly.
Q5: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Absolutely! Shorter pasta like fusilli or rotini work great as well.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days
- Freezing: Not recommended due to cream-based sauce
- Reheating: Warm gently on stovetop, adding a splash of broth to restore moisture
- Meal Prep: Prepare chicken and chop ingredients in advance for quick weeknight cooking
Enjoy your deliciously addictive “Marry Me” Chicken Pasta – a dish so good, it might just lead to a proposal!