Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Romantic Dinner for Two
In the realm of culinary creations, few dishes whisper romance quite like the Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This dish combines the succulence of perfectly cooked chicken with a rich, creamy sauce, all tossed together with your choice of pasta. Whether you’re planning a special evening for your significant other or simply looking to add a touch of elegance to your dinner repertoire, this recipe promises a delightful experience. With a total preparation time of just 40 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for a memorable meal that won’t keep you in the kitchen all night.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, for dredging
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- ⅓ cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper, then dredge each piece in flour to coat lightly.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the stock to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, chili flakes (if using), and oregano. Add the sundried tomatoes and simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and then add it directly to the sauce in the skillet.
- Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Let everything simmer together for a few minutes to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors meld.
- Serve: Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves before serving to add a burst of color and freshness.
Tips for the Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Pasta Choice: While spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne are suggested, feel free to use any pasta you prefer. The sauce clings beautifully to both long and short shapes.
- Sauce Consistency: For a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer a bit longer before adding the pasta. If it becomes too thick, a splash of pasta water can help thin it out.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken stock for vegetable stock and omit the chicken cutlets for a vegetarian version of this dish. Consider adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for added texture.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a statement. It’s a dish that combines simplicity with sophistication, flavor with finesse. Whether it’s the candlelit dinner that seals the deal or just a Tuesday night treat, this recipe is sure to impress. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and hearty pasta, it’s a dish that says “I love you” in every bite. So, the next time you’re looking to convey your feelings through food, remember that the way to someone’s heart is often through their stomach—and this dish is the perfect messenger.