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Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Making a delicious and comforting meal can sometimes feel like magic, and that’s exactly the experience you’ll have with Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This dish is a delightful mix of tender chicken, creamy Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta that many find irresistible. Picture this: a warm, soothing plate of pasta kissed by garlic and topped with fresh basil. Whether you’re aiming to impress a loved one or simply want a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe makes every dinner feel special.
What Makes This Recipe Special
There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this recipe, but let’s highlight the key attractions. First and foremost, it’s a quick meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something that feels luxurious yet approachable. It’s the ideal choice for a busy weeknight dinner or even a cozy date night at home.
"This dish is an absolute showstopper! Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. My partner couldn’t get enough!" – A satisfied cook
This recipe deserves a spot on your dinner table because it’s budget-friendly and incredibly easy to pull off. Plus, it’s sure to garner rave reviews from even the pickiest eaters. It’s a meal that promises to tantalize your taste buds without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Your Easy Cooking Guide
Making Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta is straightforward and fulfilling. You’ll get to savor the rich, creamy goodness that pairs beautifully with the charred chicken and the sweetness of cherry tomatoes. Here’s a quick overview of the steps so you know what to expect:
- Season and cook chicken until golden brown.
- Sauté garlic while making a creamy sauce with heavy cream and Parmesan.
- Toss in the cooked pasta and cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
- Combine all components and serve with a fresh basil garnish.
Sounds simple, right? Now, let’s get you all set up with the ingredients.
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Gather Your Ingredients
Before diving into cooking, it’s essential to gather everything you need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups cooked pasta (fettuccine or penne work great)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh basil for garnish
Feel free to customize some ingredients—if you’re low on Parmesan, you might substitute with Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Directions
Now, let’s turn those ingredients into a delightful dish:
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In that same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for roughly one minute, allowing it to become fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta and halved cherry tomatoes to the sauce, stirring to coat well.
- Slice the cooked chicken and place it atop the pasta.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.
Best Way to Serve
To truly enjoy this dish, serve it piping hot right after making it. A sprinkle of additional Parmesan can elevate presentation and flavor. Consider pairing it with:
- Steamed green vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
- A light side salad with vinaigrette to complement the creamy pasta.
- Garlic bread to soak up the rich sauce and add a crunchy contrast.
Each of these accompaniments will enhance your meal’s overall dining experience.
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine!), here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze, consider separating the pasta from the sauce and chicken to maintain the best texture. Stored properly, it can last up to three months.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream to rehydrate the sauce.
Always remember to adhere to safe food handling practices to avoid any food safety issues.
Expert Advice
- Cook the chicken thoroughly: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Pasta Texture: Undercook your pasta by a minute or two if you plan to combine it with the sauce, as it will continue to cook in the pan.
- Customize the sauce: Add in some spinach or mushrooms for additional nutrition and flavor.
Creative Twists
Feel free to give this dish your personal touch:
- Lemon zest: A bit of citrus can brighten the creaminess of the sauce.
- Add a kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
- Different proteins: Swap out chicken for shrimp or slices of steak for a unique twist.
Your Questions Answered
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time takes about 15 minutes, and the total cooking time is around 25 minutes, making it a 40-minute meal from start to finish.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! While Parmesan is classic, feel free to experiment with other hard cheeses, such as Grana Padano or even a mix for varying flavors.
How do I adhere to dietary restrictions?
For gluten-free eaters, substitute regular pasta with a gluten-free version. You can also use dairy-free cream and cheese for a dairy-free option.
Taking the time to create this Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta will not only please your palate but may also create some romantic moments at the dinner table. Enjoy every delightful bite!
Print
Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A delightful mix of tender chicken, creamy Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, perfect for impressing loved ones or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups cooked pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In that same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for roughly one minute, allowing it to become fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta and halved cherry tomatoes to the sauce, stirring to coat well.
- Slice the cooked chicken and place it atop the pasta.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.
Notes
Serve piping hot with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan and consider pairing with steamed green vegetables or garlic bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sauteing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: chicken pasta, creamy sauce, Italian, weeknight dinner, comfort food
