marry me chicken pasta (Print-Friendly Version)
If you’re craving a dish that’s both cozy and impressive, the marry me chicken pasta (Print-Friendly Version) is absolute magic on a plate. Imagine tender shredded chicken and perfectly cooked rigatoni bathed in a luxuriously creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, brightened up with fresh basil. It’s a comforting meal that comes together swiftly but tastes like you’ve spent hours crafting it—ideal for those nights when you want to impress without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this marry me chicken pasta (Print-Friendly Version) lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the rich cream that gives the sauce its velvet touch to the sun-dried tomatoes that pack a punch of tangy sweetness. Bringing it all together are fresh herbs and a hint of vinegar that brighten every bite.
- Olive oil: The foundation for sautéing garlic and seasoning, adding subtle fruity notes.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that infuses the sauce with herby depth.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Provides an irresistible aromatic kick right from the start.
- Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Adds vibrant color and a concentrated burst of tomato flavor.
- Chicken broth: Keeps the sauce savory and balanced while deglazing the pan.
- Heavy cream: Ensures the sauce is decadently smooth and luscious.
- Parmesan cheese, shredded: Melts into the sauce to deepen its savory richness.
- White wine vinegar: A splash that cuts through the creaminess for perfect harmony.
- Rotisserie chicken, shredded: Tender and juicy protein that makes this dish such a comforting meal.
- Rigatoni or penne pasta, cooked al dente: Holds the sauce beautifully while providing satisfying bite.
- Fresh basil, julienne-cut: The finishing herbaceous note that elevates every forkful.
- Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the vibrant flavors.
- Fresh cracked black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and spice that balances the creamy sauce.
How to Make marry me chicken pasta (Print-Friendly Version)
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Toss in minced garlic along with the Italian seasoning and a careful pinch of salt and pepper. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant—this step is where all those lovely aromas start building the flavor base for your sauce.
Step 2: Deglaze with Broth
Pour in a small splash of chicken broth to the pan, and scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This technique, called deglazing, adds depth and complexity to your sauce, making every bite richer and more satisfying.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
Next, it’s time to add the star players: sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, remaining chicken broth, shredded Parmesan cheese, and an extra pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently and let everything meld over medium-low heat until the cheese melts completely. Once it begins to simmer gently and the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency, add the white wine vinegar to cut through some richness and brighten the flavors.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Add the shredded rotisserie chicken and cooked rigatoni right into your velvety sauce. Stir everything together, letting the heat permeate through the chicken and pasta for a couple of minutes. This step ensures the whole dish is warm and flavors marry perfectly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed here.
Step 5: Final Touches and Serve
Remove the pan from heat, then scatter fresh julienne-cut basil over the top. That vibrant green color and herbal aroma truly make the dish come alive. Serve immediately and watch as everyone swoons over this comfort food classic.
How to Serve marry me chicken pasta (Print-Friendly Version)
Garnishes
Fresh basil julienned on top is non-negotiable for added freshness, but you can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a few red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. A delicate drizzle of good quality olive oil right before serving adds a gorgeous sheen and subtle richness.
Side Dishes
To complement this creamy pasta, consider a light crisp salad with a lemon vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables. These provide a nice contrast to the richness of the sauce and make your meal feel well-rounded and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, serve the marry me chicken pasta (Print-Friendly Version) family-style in a large rustic bowl for a cozy communal feel. Alternatively, plate it individually and garnish with basil leaves and a sprig of thyme for an elegant touch. For a fun twist, tuck the creamy pasta into hollowed-out tomatoes or bell peppers as edible bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, place leftover marry me chicken pasta (Print-Friendly Version) in an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner later in the week.
Freezing
This dish freezes reasonably well, but the texture of the pasta may soften slightly upon thawing. If you want to freeze, store the pasta and sauce separately if possible. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s luscious texture. Avoid microwaving for best flavor and to prevent the creamy sauce from separating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this dish?
Absolutely! While rigatoni or penne hold the sauce beautifully, you can use fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. Just ensure any pasta is cooked al dente to maintain its texture when mixed with the creamy sauce.
Can I make marry me chicken pasta (Print-Friendly Version) dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a cashew cream sauce, and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute. The sauce won’t be quite as rich but will still deliver plenty of flavor.
Is rotisserie chicken the best choice?
Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe because it’s tender, flavorful, and quick. But you can also use leftover cooked chicken breasts or thighs—just shred them finely and toss them in.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and cooked components ahead then combine them just before serving. This is great if you want to save time on a busy night but still enjoy a freshly made meal.
How spicy is this dish?
It’s not spicy by default, but the black pepper adds mild warmth. If you want more heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes to taste during cooking or as a garnish.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been hunting for that perfect meal to impress your loved ones or simply to treat yourself, the marry me chicken pasta (Print-Friendly Version) should be at the top of your list. It’s easy to prepare, full of rich and vibrant flavors, and downright comforting. Go ahead and give this recipe a try—you’ll find it quickly becomes one of your favorite go-to dishes whenever you want that special something on your table.
