Marry Me Chicken Pasta

If you’re looking for a dish that’s sure to impress, then you’ve come to the right place! Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful blend of flavors that perfectly combines tender chicken thighs, fresh spinach, and gluten-free pasta all enveloped in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it has the magical ability to turn any meal into a celebration. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family, this dish is always a hit.

The best part? It’s quick and easy to whip up, making it ideal for those busy evenings when you want something comforting yet delicious. Trust me, once you try this Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you might just find yourself wanting to serve it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With only 25 minutes of cook time, you can have this mouth-watering meal on the table in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves pasta! The creamy sauce and savory chicken make this dish appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead option: You can easily prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve—saving you time during busy weeknights!
• Packed with flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs creates an irresistible richness that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a breeze! These simple, wholesome items are likely already in your pantry or easily accessible at your local grocery store. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 3 boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 3/4 tbsp smoked sweet paprika
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil (from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes)

For the Pasta

• 12 oz farfalle pasta

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp dried shallots
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp minced onion
• 3 tbsp Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 gluten-free flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded parmesan
• 1/4 cup diced sun-dried tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup diced spinach
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp smoked sweet paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt

For Garnish

• Chopped fresh basil (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about Marry Me Chicken Pasta is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breast or even turkey if you prefer. Both options work beautifully with this creamy sauce!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the pasta: If you want a different texture, try using penne or rotini instead of farfalle.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to give your dish an extra kick!

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken thighs with smoked sweet paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This step is crucial as it infuses the meat with flavor before cooking. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sun-dried tomato oil and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides. Cooking it this way ensures that each bite bursts with taste!

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While your chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to boil and add your farfalle pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve some pasta water for later; it helps create a silky sauce!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add dried shallots, minced garlic, and onion; sauté until fragrant. This step is essential as sautéing releases their natural sugars and flavors.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Sprinkle gluten-free flour into your sautéed mixture and stir well to create a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth followed by heavy cream until smooth. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted before adding diced sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, additional Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and salt.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Slice your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the sauce along with cooked pasta. Toss everything together gently while adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency. Your Marry Me Chicken Pasta should now be creamy and luscious!

Serve immediately topped with fresh basil for an extra pop of color. Enjoy every delicious bite—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Making Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful experience, and a few pro tips can help you create an unforgettable dish!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and quality sun-dried tomatoes enhance the flavors significantly, making your pasta taste restaurant-quality.

• Cook chicken thighs correctly: Searing the chicken thighs until golden brown locks in moisture and adds depth to the overall flavor of the dish.

• Don’t rush the sauce: Allowing the creamy sauce to simmer gives it time to thicken and develop rich flavors, ensuring every bite is deliciously indulgent.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste as you go and feel free to adjust spices, especially if you enjoy a little more heat or complexity in your dishes.

• Save some pasta water: Before draining your pasta, reserve a cup of the starchy cooking water. It can be added to the sauce for a creamier consistency if needed.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Serving Marry Me Chicken Pasta is all about presentation and enhancing its delightful flavors. Here are some simple ways to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh basil: Adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Grated parmesan cheese: A sprinkle on top imparts an extra layer of richness, taking each bite over the top.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting brings out the flavors even more, while also adding a touch of elegance.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce; it’s simple and crowd-pleasing.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the pasta.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Steamed broccoli or green beans: These vibrant greens not only add color but also complement the meal’s flavors without overpowering them.

With these serving suggestions, your Marry Me Chicken Pasta will not only taste amazing but also look beautiful on your dinner table. Enjoy every moment!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week effortlessly. Here’s how to store and keep your leftovers fresh!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any unused pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Ensure the pasta is cooled to room temperature before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best taste and freshness.

Freezing

• Portion out the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Press out any excess air before sealing tight to prevent freezer burn.
• For best quality, freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave on a defrost setting.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain creamy consistency.
• Stir occasionally until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Marry Me Chicken Pasta that might help you out!

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Yes, you can substitute boneless skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly until no longer pink in the center.

Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 gluten-free flour as specified in the recipe to keep it entirely gluten-free.

What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Consider pairing this dish with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up that delicious creamy sauce!

How do I enhance the flavor of my Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

You can add more herbs like fresh basil or oregano, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Experiment with flavors that you love!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Marry Me Chicken Pasta as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on your plate. With its rich flavors and creamy sauce, it’s sure to win hearts around your dinner table. Embrace the joy of cooking and savor every bite—happy cooking!