Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Sauce: The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs creates a sauce that’s both rich and aromatic.
Versatile: Works well with various pasta shapes and can be adapted with additional ingredients like spinach or different proteins.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pasta (e.g., rigatoni or farfalle)
Butter
Flour
Garlic
Tomato paste
Sun-dried tomatoes
Dry white wine (such as sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio) or chicken broth
Heavy cream
Dried oregano
Fresh basil
Crushed red pepper flakes
Cooked rotisserie chicken
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce Base: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about a minute until well combined.
Add Aromatics and Liquids:alcohol. Add minced garlic, tomato paste, and white wine (or chicken broth) to the skillet. Let it bubble for a minute to cook off the alcohol.
Incorporate Cream and Seasonings: Stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the skillet.
Simmer the Sauce: Allow the sauce to cook for a few minutes until it has reduced slightly and thickened to your desired consistency.
Finish the Sauce: Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil. Remove the skillet from heat. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the drained pasta with the sauce until well coated. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add Greens: Stir in fresh spinach towards the end of cooking for added color and nutrients.
Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Freezing: Not recommended due to the dairy content, which may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

What is “Marry Me” Chicken Pasta?

“Marry Me” Chicken Pasta is a dish featuring tender chicken and pasta tossed in a creamy garlic tomato sauce, rumored to be so delicious it could prompt a marriage proposal.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Sturdy varieties like rigatoni or farfalle hold the sauce well.

Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for the white wine?

Yes, you can substitute the white wine with chicken broth.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.

What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

A side salad, such as Caesar salad, and garlic bread complement this dish well.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Use heavy cream as specified, and avoid substituting with lower-fat alternatives, as they may curdle due to the acidity from the tomatoes.

Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Yes, adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can enhance the dish. Add them towards the end of cooking until they’re tender.

Is this dish spicy?

The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth but don’t make the dish overly spicy. You can adjust the amount to your preference.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, hearty pasta, and a rich, flavorful sauce. Its quick preparation and versatile nature make it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy this comforting meal with your favorite sides and savor the harmonious blend of flavors.