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Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe Creamy and Easy Dinner

Savannah
A creamy marry me chicken pasta recipe made with tender chicken, parmesan cream sauce, and sun dried tomatoes. This comforting pasta dish is quick, flavorful, and perfect for easy weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 29 minutes
Course Main Dishes
Cuisine American, Italian Inspired
Servings 6 servings
Calories 640 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken and Pasta
  • 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1 inch pieces
  • 10 ounces penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • For the Creamy Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 teaspoons garlic minced
  • 3 tablespoons all purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup sun dried tomatoes drained
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For Garnish
  • Fresh basil chopped
  • Extra parmesan cheese optional

Instructions
 

  • 1.Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • 2.Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
  • 3.Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  • 4.In the same skillet melt butter and sauté garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • 5.Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux.
  • 6.Slowly whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream. Add parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes smooth.
  • 7.Add sun dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
  • 8.Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the sauce coats the pasta evenly.
  • 9.Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best creamy texture. Pre shredded cheese does not melt as smoothly in sauces.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small splash of reserved pasta water, milk, or chicken broth to loosen it.
  • Oil packed sun dried tomatoes provide richer flavor than dry ones. Drain them well before adding to the sauce.
  • Cook the pasta al dente so it keeps its texture when mixed with the creamy sauce.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce smooth.