Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Creamy Garlic Parmesan Delight

by

Ingredients

US Measurements

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)

Metric Measurements

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 600g)
  • 30 ml olive oil
  • 5 g salt
  • 2 g black pepper
  • 2 g dried oregano
  • 2 g garlic powder
  • 60 g all-purpose flour
  • 30 g butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 240 ml heavy cream
  • 120 ml chicken broth
  • 80 g sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
  • 15 g fresh basil, chopped
  • 340 g pasta (penne or fettuccine)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

  1. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
  2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and garlic powder.
  3. Dredge chicken in flour, shaking off excess.

Cooking the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown.
  3. Remove chicken and set aside.

Making the Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter.
  2. Add minced garlic, sauté for 30 seconds.
  3. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth.
  4. Bring to a simmer, scraping up browned bits.
  5. Add sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese.
  6. Stir until sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.

Cooking the Pasta

  1. Cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions.
  2. Drain pasta, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.

Combining and Serving

  1. Return chicken to the skillet with sauce.
  2. Add cooked pasta, tossing to coat.
  3. If needed, add reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
  4. Garnish with fresh basil.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 550
  • Total Fat: 32g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 600mg

Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes Servings: 4

Cooking Tips and Tricks

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C)
  • Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for uniform cooking
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor
  • Don’t overcook the garlic to prevent bitterness
  • Reserve pasta water to help create a silky sauce

Variations and Substitutions

  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and pasta
  • Dairy-Free: Substitute cream with coconut cream
  • Vegetarian: Replace chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms
  • Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce
  • Low-Carb: Serve over zucchini noodles

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead? A: Yes, adjust cooking time as thighs may take longer to cook.

Q2: How do I store leftovers? A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Q3: Can I freeze this dish? A: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Q4: What can I serve as a side dish? A: Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.

Q5: Can I make this ahead of time? A: Prepare components separately and combine when ready to serve.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking
  • Reheat gently to prevent sauce from separating
  • Best consumed within 2-3 days
  • Separate pasta and sauce when storing
  • Refresh with a splash of cream when reheating

Indulge in this irresistible Marry Me Chicken Pasta that’s sure to win hearts at the dinner table!