Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Name: Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1-2 pieces boneless chicken breasts (Choose boneless for easier cooking.); 1 cup pasta (penne or fettuccine) (Any pasta will work!); 1 tablespoon olive oil (Use extra virgin for added flavor.); 2 cloves garlic, minced (Fresh garlic enhances the dish.); 1 cup heavy cream (Gives the sauce its creamy texture.); 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Freshly grated works best.); to taste salt and pepper (Enhance the flavor.); for garnish Fresh parsley (Adds brightness and color.)

Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that’s perfect for busy home cooks. It combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful pasta in just under 30 minutes. This recipe is not only easy to whip up, but it’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, everyone will love it. Plus, it’s an excellent option for date nights!

Emma Hale Story

Emma Hale once found herself short on time yet wanting to impress her friends with a home-cooked meal. With a busy schedule and little prep time, she discovered the magic of one-pan dishes. Among them, Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta stood out. It was quick, delicious, and left everyone asking for the recipe. Emma learned that cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll fall in love with Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta for many reasons. First, it’s super simple and requires minimal ingredients. You don’t need to be a master chef to make this dish shine. The creamy Parmesan sauce is rich and comforting, making it perfect for chilly nights. Plus, it’s versatile. Use whatever pasta you have on hand. Also, it’s a one-skillet meal, which means fewer dishes to wash. It’s no wonder this recipe is trending on Pinterest; it’s the ultimate solution for a tasty, hassle-free dinner!

Ingredients

1 – 2 chicken breasts – Choose boneless for easier cooking.
2 – 1 cup pasta (penne or fettuccine) – Any pasta will work!
3 – 1 tablespoon olive oil – Use extra virgin for added flavor.
4 – 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic enhances the dish.
5 – 1 cup heavy cream – Gives the sauce its creamy texture.
6 – 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated works best.
7 – Salt and pepper, to taste – Enhance the flavor.
8 – Fresh parsley, for garnish – Adds brightness and color.

How to Make Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta

1 – Cook the pasta according to package instructions and drain.
2 – In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side or until done. Remove and set aside.
3 – In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4 – Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
5 – Slice the chicken and add it to the sauce. Combine with cooked pasta.
6 – Toss everything together and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

How to Serve

To elevate your Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta, consider serving it with a refreshing side salad. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with balsamic vinaigrette will complement the rich flavors of the dish. Garlic bread also pairs wonderfully, providing a crunchy texture to balance the creaminess. For a special touch, serve with a glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. This combination makes for an elegant and satisfying meal.

How to Perfect This Recipe

To make the most of your Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta, start with high-quality ingredients. Fresh chicken and good Parmesan cheese will enhance the overall flavor. Don’t rush the cooking process; perfectly cooked chicken will be juicy and tender. Remember to adjust the seasoning as you go. If you like a little kick, add red pepper flakes for an added depth of flavor. Finally, garnish generously with parsley for freshness and color.

Common Mistakes

Overcooking the chicken – Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
Not draining the pasta – This can make the dish too watery.
Skipping the garlic – Fresh garlic adds essential flavor, so don’t skip it!

Storage and Reheating

You can store Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened. Alternatively, you can pop it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 2 months, but note that the sauce may change in texture upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream, but it may change the flavor slightly.

Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! Mozzarella or cream cheese can work, but they will give a different flavor profile.

How do I add more vegetables?
Feel free to toss in spinach, mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes when cooking the sauce for extra nutrition and taste.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the sauce and chicken ahead. Just combine with the pasta before serving.

Conclusion

Give Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta a try! This creamy, comforting dish is sure to impress your loved ones. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again. Enjoy cooking and the delicious results!