Marry Me Chicken Pasta – Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Fettuccine Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s creamy, comforting, and packed with rich flavors, then the Marry Me Chicken Pasta – Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Fettuccine Recipe is exactly what you need in your kitchen rotation. This recipe pairs tender, juicy chicken strips with a luscious sauce bursting with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan, all lovingly tossed with perfectly cooked fettuccine. Whether you’re aiming to impress a special someone or simply craving a delectable, soul-satisfying meal, this pasta delivers every time. It’s the kind of recipe that will have you coming back for seconds and maybe even thirds, guaranteed to make weekday dinners feel like a celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, bringing together vibrant flavors and textures that blend seamlessly. From the creamy base to the savory chicken and that delightful punch of sun-dried tomatoes, each component is simple but essential to creating the magic of the dish.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into strips to ensure quick and even cooking for tender bites.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors throughout the dish.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle peppery warmth.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A classic blend to infuse the chicken with herby goodness.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory profile of the chicken before cooking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for sautéing, giving the chicken a lovely golden crust.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: The aromatic heart of the creamy sauce that will have your kitchen smelling amazing.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little gentle heat to awaken the palate.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that silky, luscious sauce that defines this pasta.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Adds depth and balances the richness of the cream.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melted into the sauce, it gives a nutty, savory finish.
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: They bring tangy bursts of concentrated tomato sweetness and texture.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Reinforces the herbaceous notes in the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds warmth and a hint of smokiness.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Extra seasoning for the sauce’s complexity.
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish): Freshness that brightens the whole dish at the end.
- 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta: Cooked al dente to provide the perfect chew and soak up the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons reserved pasta water (optional): Useful to loosen the sauce if it gets too thick when combined.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta – Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Fettuccine Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Begin by seasoning your chicken strips with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. This simple spice mix packs a lot of flavor and ensures the chicken is well-seasoned from the inside out. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then carefully add the chicken. Cook each side for about 4 to 5 minutes to get a beautiful golden crust and ensure the chicken is cooked through but still juicy. Once ready, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside—don’t worry, it’ll be back soon for its grand creamy debut.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, now infused with the flavorful chicken bits left behind, add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté just until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Now, it’s time for the Parmesan cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, paprika, and a pinch of black pepper to join the party. Let this luscious mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens up to a rich, velvety sauce.
Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Pasta
Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and return them to the skillet, allowing them to soak in that creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Toss in the freshly chopped basil—it adds a bright herbal note that cuts through the richness in the best way. Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet as well and toss everything together until every strand or piece of pasta is generously coated. If the sauce feels too thick, a splash of the reserved pasta water will help loosen it up to your desired consistency. This harmony of cream, spice, herbs, and tender chicken is what makes the Marry Me Chicken Pasta – Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Fettuccine Recipe so irresistible.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
After tossing, your pasta is ready to plate. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for that beautiful finishing touch. Serve immediately while warm and creamy—this dish tastes best fresh, with every mouthful delivering savory, tangy, and creamy goodness that’s simply unforgettable.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta – Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Fettuccine Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh basil and a bit more Parmesan cheese on top not only makes the dish look stunning but also heightens its flavor. For a touch of crunch, you could sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or cracked black pepper right before serving. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil can add a silky finish that makes every bite melt in your mouth.
Side Dishes
Since this pasta is rich and hearty, light and fresh sides work best. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli would complement the creaminess nicely. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread are fabulous too—they’re perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce and making the meal even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant dinner, serve the pasta in shallow bowls and top generously with basil chiffonade (thinly sliced basil leaves). You might even experiment with adding sautéed mushrooms or baby spinach for extra color and nutrients. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top adds visual appeal alongside a gentle heat that livens the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta – Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Fettuccine Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors might even deepen overnight, making for an excellent next-day meal.
Freezing
While freezing creamy pasta isn’t always ideal because of the sauce’s texture, you can freeze the chicken and sauce mixture separately without pasta. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat or in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to restore the sauce’s silky consistency. Stir frequently to warm evenly and prevent the sauce from breaking.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta shapes in the Marry Me Chicken Pasta – Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Fettuccine Recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine works wonderfully with creamy sauces, penne, rigatoni, or even farfalle are great alternatives because they hold onto sauce well. Choose your favorite pasta shape and enjoy the dish just as much.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, with a few adaptations! Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a creamy dairy-free alternative, and use a plant-based Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast. The taste will be slightly different but still delicious and creamy.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
Fresh tomatoes can be used but will give a milder flavor and a different texture. If using fresh, consider roasting or sautéing them first to concentrate their flavor closer to that of sun-dried tomatoes for the best results.
How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a subtle heat that gently wakes up the sauce without overpowering it. You can omit them if you prefer no heat or increase slightly for a bolder kick. It’s very customizable according to your spice preference.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?
Definitely! This recipe scales up well—just be sure you have a large enough skillet to cook the chicken and mix everything evenly. You might need to cook the chicken in batches to maintain that perfect sear.
Final Thoughts
I can say without hesitation that the Marry Me Chicken Pasta – Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Fettuccine Recipe is one of those dishes that will quickly become a favorite in your meal lineup. It’s simple enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for special occasions, creamy but balanced with fresh herbs and sun-dried tomato tanginess. Give it a try and watch how it transforms dinner time into an unforgettable taste experience that you and your loved ones will savor every time.
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Marry Me Chicken Pasta – Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Fettuccine Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken breast strips cooked in a rich sauce of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil. This irresistible meal combines perfectly seasoned chicken with al dente pasta, making it a perfect comfort food for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish)
Pasta
- 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta, cooked al dente
- 2 tablespoons reserved pasta water (optional, for thinning sauce)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken strips with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder thoroughly. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 4–5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add Parmesan cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, paprika, and black pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens.
- Combine Everything: Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet with the sauce. Add fresh chopped basil and stir to coat the chicken well in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it.
- Serve: Garnish the pasta with additional fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, flavorful pasta dish.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- Red pepper flakes are optional; omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best flavor and smoother melting.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a bright, fresh aroma and taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
