Welcome to the Wonderful World of Marry Me Chicken Pasta!
Hey there! You’re in for a treat with this Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe. I mean, who wouldn’t want to impress their significant other (or yourself, because you deserve it too!) with a creamy, dreamy pasta that has juicy chicken and crispy bacon? It’s a plateful of love that’s surprisingly easy to whip up! Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish.
Benefits of Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with flavors that make it feel special. The chicken provides lean protein, while the heavy cream and Parmesan offer a comforting richness. Plus, using fresh herbs not only enhances the flavor but also gives you a hit of antioxidants! And honestly, who can overlook the joy that comes from a meal that’s this satisfying?
Fun Variations to Try
- Switch Up the Pasta: If you’re looking for a different texture or flavor, try swapping penne with your favorite pasta—farfalle, fusilli, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option!
- Make It Lighter: Want to make it a bit healthier? Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or add in some sautéed spinach for an extra veggie boost.
- For Spice Lovers: Add a dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick that’ll have your taste buds dancing!
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta for the same great taste without the gluten!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides. Feel free to really get in there and rub the spices into the meat!
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon: In the same skillet, toss in the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy and golden. Once done, take the bacon out, let it drain on some paper towels, but keep that delicious bacon fat in the skillet!
- Cook the Pasta: While the chicken and bacon are cooking away, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set it aside for later.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Pour in the heavy cream and whisk in the Parmesan cheese until you have a creamy, dreamy sauce. Add the dried thyme and Italian seasoning, tweaking the salt and pepper to your taste.
- Combine Ingredients: Toss the cooked penne pasta in with the sauce, coating it evenly. Slice up the chicken breasts and artfully lay them on top of the pasta. Isn’t this looking amazing already?
- Garnish and Serve: Top your masterpiece with the crispy bacon pieces and a sprinkle of fresh parsley and thyme. Dig in while it’s hot and enjoy every delicious bite!
Practical Tips for the Best Results
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s wonderful for lunch the next day!
- If you find the sauce is too thick after refrigerating, simply thin it out with a bit of extra chicken broth when reheating.
- You can meal prep by cooking the chicken and bacon ahead of time, making mealtime even quicker!
Equipment You Will Need
Here’s a toolkit that will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable:
- A large skillet for cooking chicken and making the sauce
- A big pot for boiling pasta
- A cutting board and knife for prepping chicken and vegetables
- A whisk for mixing your sauce to perfection
- A colander for draining pasta
- A set of measuring spoons for accuracy
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs will make the dish even juicier.
- What type of pasta can I use besides penne? Any pasta shape you like! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Can I add vegetables to this recipe? Sure! Some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers would add great flavor and nutrition.
- How can I make it dairy-free? Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free alternative.
- Can I freeze this dish? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the unassembled ingredients versus the fully cooked dish for later use!
Let’s Connect!
I hope you enjoy making Marry Me Chicken Pasta as much as I do! It’s one of those recipes that really brings joy to the table. Don’t forget to share your experience or any variations you tried. I’d love to know how it turned out! Let’s keep the conversation going—follow me on Pinterest for more delicious recipes to keep your cooking adventures exciting!
