Description
This creamy and flavorful Marry Me Chicken Pasta combines tender shredded chicken with a luscious garlic tomato cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil served over perfectly cooked pasta. Rich yet comforting, this dish is perfect for a special weeknight meal or an impressive dinner for guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 tablespoon flour
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/3 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or whipping cream)
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt & pepper to taste
Chicken and Garnish
- 2 cups cooked or rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1 small handful fresh basil, torn or chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the roux: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Sauté garlic and build flavor: Add the minced garlic to the roux and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to develop its deep flavor.
- Deglaze the pan: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Add cream and seasonings: Stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Incorporate chicken and cheese: Add the shredded cooked chicken to the sauce and stir to warm through. Then, mix in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Toss pasta with sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet, tossing everything together so the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Finish with basil and serve: Stir in the fresh basil just before serving for a bright, herbaceous note. Serve hot with extra parmesan cheese on the side.
Notes
- Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for extra flavor, or rehydrate dry ones in warm water before adding.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it may be less rich.
- Rotisserie chicken is a quick shortcut, but grilled or baked chicken can be used as well.
- This recipe pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Keywords: Marry Me Chicken, Creamy Chicken Pasta, Chicken Pasta Recipe, Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta, Easy Dinner, Comfort Food