Marry Chicken Pasta: A Delicious 30-Minute Dinner

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Marry Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with penne pasta, enveloped in a creamy sauce enriched with sundried tomatoes, spinach, and basil. This recipe is not only quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes, but also incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this dish promises to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Chicken Pasta

This chicken pasta recipe is a true weeknight hero for several reasons. First, it’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze. Second, it’s packed with flavors that harmonize beautifully, from the creamy sauce to the tangy sundried tomatoes. Additionally, it’s versatile; you can easily add vegetables to make a chicken pasta with vegetables version. It’s also perfect for beginners, offering a straightforward cooking method that anyone can follow. This creamy chicken pasta dish is not only delicious but also healthy, as it’s gluten-free and can be made lighter by adjusting the cream content. Lastly, its comforting nature ensures that it will become a family favorite, creating memorable dinners.

Ingredients for Marry Chicken Pasta

Gather these items:

10 ounces penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast
Salt and pepper to taste
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
¾ cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Red pepper flakes, optional
1-2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
2 tablespoons fresh basil, minced
Fresh parsley, optional for garnish

How to Make Marry Chicken Pasta Step-by-Step

Step 1: Boil the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Add olive oil and chicken to a skillet. Season with salt and pepper, sauté until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat, add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Step 4: Sprinkle flour over melted butter, whisking continuously for 1 minute to form a roux.
Step 5: Slowly add chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese while whisking until smooth. Simmer for about 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Add sundried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
Step 7: Add spinach and basil, stir until spinach wilts, about 1 minute. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 8: Add cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, toss to combine.
Step 9: Garnish with parsley and serve.

Marry Chicken Pasta: A Delicious 30-Minute Dinner - Marry Chicken Pasta - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Marry Chicken Pasta

Keep these in mind:

This dish is easy to prepare and takes less than 30 minutes.
Use boneless skinless chicken thighs if preferred for extra tenderness.
Adjust seasonings to your taste – more garlic or Italian seasoning can elevate the flavor.
For a healthy chicken pasta option, consider using whole grain pasta or adding more vegetables.

Best Ways to Serve Marry Chicken Pasta

This marry chicken dish can be served in various delightful ways. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for a healthy twist. For a more indulgent experience, top it with additional grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs before serving.

Marry Chicken Pasta: A Delicious 30-Minute Dinner - Marry Chicken Pasta - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Marry Chicken Pasta

To store your chicken and pasta bake, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it moist. This makes it a quick marry chicken pasta meal for busy nights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Chicken Pasta

What’s the secret to perfect Marry Chicken Pasta?

The secret to perfect marry chicken pasta lies in the creamy sauce. Make sure to whisk the roux thoroughly and simmer until the sauce thickens properly. This ensures a rich and flavorful base for your dish.

Can I make Marry Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken pasta recipe ahead of time by cooking the chicken and sauce, then storing them separately. When ready to serve, just cook the pasta and combine everything for a quick meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Marry Chicken Pasta?

To avoid mistakes, be careful not to overcook the pasta as it will continue to soften when mixed with the sauce. Also, taste and adjust the seasonings before serving to ensure the best flavor.

Variations of Marry Chicken Pasta You Can Try

There are many delicious marry chicken pasta variations you can explore. Consider adding seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a vibrant touch. You could also create a spicy version by incorporating jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. For a different flavor profile, try using pesto instead of the creamy sauce, giving a refreshing twist to this classic dish.

For more tips on cooking pasta, check out this pasta cooking guide.

Looking for more chicken recipes? Try this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta for a delicious alternative.

For a delightful dessert, consider making Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies to complement your meal.