Creamy Marry Me Pasta

There’s something magical about a comforting pasta dish that can transform an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience. Creamy Marry Me Pasta has become a staple in my household, not just for its rich flavors but for the reactions it evokes. The first time I made this dish, my partner took one bite and said, “Wow, I could eat this every day!” Since then, it has been our go-to recipe for date nights and cozy dinners at home. The combination of tender chicken, a luscious creamy sauce, and fresh cherry tomatoes makes this dish irresistible. If you’re looking to impress someone special or simply enjoy a comforting meal, this recipe is a must-try.

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• For the Creamy Sauce:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• For the Pasta:
• 8 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

• Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

1. Cook the Chicken:

• Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

1. Make the Sauce:

• In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
• Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
• Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.

1. Combine:

• Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cooked chicken to the sauce. Let the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

1. Toss the Pasta:

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it in the creamy sauce, ensuring everything is well combined.

1. Serve:

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 520 kcal
• Total Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Cholesterol: 140mg
• Sodium: 700mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 44g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 26g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the pasta in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce and colorful tomatoes.
• Garnish each serving with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
• Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• For a romantic touch, serve with a glass of white wine.

Additional Tips

1. Chicken Variations: You can substitute chicken with shrimp or diced turkey for a different flavor profile.
2. Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese for varied tastes.
3. Vegetable Add-ins: Add spinach or bell peppers to the sauce for extra nutrients and flavor.
4. Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes for a little heat if you enjoy spicy dishes.
5. Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance and just combine with the cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms and zucchini instead.
• Creamy Garlic Sauce: Replace half of the heavy cream with sour cream for a tangy twist.
• Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the sauce for a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Replace cherry tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes for a richer taste.
• Pesto Addition: Stir in a few tablespoons of basil pesto for added flavor complexity.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a mixed green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Offer a side of garlic bread or toasted baguette slices to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Consider a light dessert, like sorbet or fruit salad, to cleanse the palate after the meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This pasta can be frozen, but the texture may change upon reheating. For best results, freeze the sauce separately from the pasta and combine when reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of pasta?

• Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rigatoni.

1. Is this recipe gluten-free?

• To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.

1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

• Absolutely! Omit the chicken and replace it with your favorite vegetables.

1. How do I store leftovers?

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

1. Can I prepare this in advance?

• You can prepare the sauce in advance and combine it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

1. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

• You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.

1. How can I make this dish spicier?

• Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.

1. Can I add more vegetables?

• Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli.

1. What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

• You can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

1. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
   • The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and be no longer pink in the center.

Conclusion

Creamy Marry Me Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to the dinner table. The creamy sauce envelops the tender chicken and cherry tomatoes, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that is sure to impress anyone. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of this delightful pasta fill your kitchen, because once you try it, you might just find yourself saying, “I do!”

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