Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This creamy, flavorful dish is a showstopper! The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a creamy broth creates a rich sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken and pasta. The touch of spinach and basil adds freshness, making it feel indulgent yet light. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this "marry me" chicken pasta is sure to win hearts at the dinner table!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients You’ll Need

1/2 lb chicken

1/2 lb pasta of choice (I used gluten-free farfalle)

1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, julienned (plus oil)

2 T butter

1 medium shallot, diced

1 t salt, to taste

1 t Italian seasoning

1/2 t onion powder

1 t pepper, to taste

1/2 t paprika (can sub smoked)

1/2 t chicken bouillon

Dash of cayenne, optional

1/2 t red pepper, to taste

6-8 cloves garlic, minced

2 T tomato paste

Olive oil

2.5 cups chicken broth

1/2 cup half & half (or cream)

1/2 cup parmesan (plus more to garnish)

Handful of spinach

Fresh basil, torn, to taste

Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, heat about 1 T of sun-dried tomato oil and 1 T butter over medium heat. Cook the chicken until no longer pink, then set aside and cut into bite-sized pieces.
2. Reduce heat to low and add in another T of butter. Add the shallot and seasonings (salt, Italian seasoning, onion powder, pepper, paprika, chicken bouillon, cayenne, and red pepper). Cook for 2-3 minutes, adding olive oil if needed. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in tomato paste.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer, then add the pasta and stir. Cover and simmer until pasta is al dente, about 10-15 minutes, stirring every few minutes.
4. Once pasta is cooked, stir in half & half, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan. Stir until melted and well-combined.
5. Stir in the spinach, cooked chicken, and fresh basil until the spinach is wilted.
6. Serve immediately and top with extra parmesan for garnish.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side of garlic bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
• If you want to add more veggies, consider tossing in some roasted or steamed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

This dish is creamy, savory, and absolutely irresistible—perfect for any special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner!