Marry Me Chicken Pasta
To make Marry Me Chicken Pasta, cook the pasta, build a sauce around chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan, and finish everything together in one skillet while the noodles can still absorb flavor. It works because the sauce actually coats the pasta instead of pooling around it like a witness.
This marry me chicken pasta builds a rich sauce around sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan, tossed with pasta and seared chicken for a dinner that earns its reputation. It's a little fancy without much real effort.
It's a good dinner for date night in or any weeknight that deserves something special. Sear your chicken well first, and the sauce comes together in the same pan.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta
- 1 pound chicken
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 cup parmesan
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup broth, cream, or sauce base
- Salt and black pepper
Instructions
- 1Cook the pasta in salted water and reserve a little of the starchy water before draining.
- 2Cook the chicken in a large skillet until browned or just done, then add the garlic.
- 3Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan with the sauce base and let it simmer briefly.
- 4Add the pasta and toss until glossy, using the reserved pasta water if it needs loosening.
- 5Taste and finish with extra cheese, herbs, or lemon if the recipe style wants it.
Pro Tips
- Save the pasta water. It fixes more than people admit.
- Do not overcook the protein before the sauce goes in.
- Finish the pasta in the sauce for better flavor and a tighter texture.
Substitutions
Storage Instructions
Store refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheat with a splash of broth or milk.
Make Ahead
Cook the protein and sauce base ahead, then boil the pasta fresh if you can.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the protein and sauce base ahead, then boil the pasta fresh if you can.
How do I store leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Store refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheat with a splash of broth or milk.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Usually yes. Cool it completely, pack it well, and freeze for up to 2 months if the texture of the dish supports it.
What should I serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta with something that gives it contrast, like a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, rice, or bread depending on the style.