The Delightful Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta
There’s something incredibly special about cooking a meal that brings loved ones together, and that’s exactly what you get with Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This hearty dish is a perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and al dente pasta, making it a guaranteed hit at the dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or bringing together friends for a special gathering, this recipe will impress everyone.
Why Make This Recipe
Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta isn’t just delicious; it’s also quick and easy to prepare. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. The creamy Parmesan sauce is rich and fulfilling, while the chicken offers a delightful protein boost. Plus, the blend of garlic and herbs creates an enticing aroma that fills your kitchen and draws everyone to the table. Each bite is not only satisfying but also an invitation to enjoy the moment together.
How to Make Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Creating this delightful dish in your kitchen is simple. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a lovely meal ready in no time.
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Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Slice the cooked chicken and add it back to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well coated.
- Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley.
Pro Tips for Success Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese can elevate the dish significantly. Avoid pre-grated cheese if possible.
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Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken breasts can easily become dry if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for perfectly juicy chicken.
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Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, consider reducing the amount of heavy cream or using half-and-half instead.
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Pasta Options: While penne is a great choice, you can substitute it with other favorites like fusilli or bowtie pasta.
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Finish with Fresh Herbs: In addition to parsley, a sprinkle of fresh basil or thyme can add a wonderful dimension of flavor.
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Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Simply reheat and cook the pasta just before serving.
Flavor Variations Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta
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Add Vegetables: Incorporate some sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
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Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce.
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Lemon Zest: Brighten the dish with some fresh lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving.
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Different Cheeses: Swap out Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or add a combination of cheeses for a richer flavor profile.
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Herb Infusion: Try using fresh oregano or Italian seasoning in the sauce for a different taste experience.
Serving Suggestions Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it with a mixed green salad topped with a light vinaigrette to balance the creamy dish. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for sopping up the delicious sauce. For an added touch, a glass of white wine complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Freezing Instructions Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or water to the skillet to loosen the sauce. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked pasta and sauce together for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and add a little cream as needed to restore its creaminess.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————|————–|
| Calories | 650 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 38g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 700mg |
FAQ About Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option for this recipe. They tend to stay juicier during cooking and will add a rich flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed since they may take a few extra minutes to cook through.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Certainly! For a vegetarian twist, you can replace the chicken with grilled mushrooms or tofu. Additionally, keep the rest of the recipe the same, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if needed, or simply omit it entirely for a creamy pasta.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can make Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta dairy-free by substituting the heavy cream with a coconut milk alternative and using a dairy-free cheese. Keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly, but it can still be delicious.
How can I make this recipe less creamy?
If you prefer a lighter version of this pasta, simply reduce the amount of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. You could also add some vegetable broth to thin out the sauce without compromising too much on flavor.
What should I serve with this dish?
This creamy pasta pairs well with a fresh side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread. A light dessert afterward, like sorbet or a fruit salad, can provide a refreshing end to your meal.
Final Thoughts
Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a fantastic dish that combines simplicity, flavor, and comfort. It’s perfect for almost any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet dinner at home. With easy-to-find ingredients, a simple cooking process, and plenty of room for personal touches, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your household. Don’t be surprised if it gets you some second looks—or even proposals—around the dinner table! So gather your loved ones, get cooking, and enjoy every savory bite of this delightful dish.
Print
Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, hearty pasta dish featuring tender chicken and rich Parmesan sauce, perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Slice the cooked chicken and add it back to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well coated.
- Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley.
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for best results. Adjust creaminess based on preference, and consider adding vegetables for variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
