Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Beginner-Friendly Recipe for a Flavorful Dinner

If you’ve ever had a dish that’s so delicious, it makes you want to propose, this is it. Marry Me Chicken Pasta is that magical combination of creamy, savory, and comforting flavors that will have you asking for seconds. The rich, sun-dried tomato sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked gluten-free pasta make this dish a true crowd-pleaser. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a perfect recipe for beginner cooks who want to impress without the stress.

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Let me tell you a quick story about how this recipe became a go-to in my kitchen. I remember the first time I made it for my family. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I had all the ingredients lined up and was determined to create something memorable. After the first bite, my partner turned to me and jokingly said, “This is so good, you might just have to marry me.” And just like that, “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” was born. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of that moment, and it never fails to bring a smile to my face—and to those who eat it.

This recipe is perfect for beginners because it’s simple, quick, and packed with flavor. You don’t need to be a professional chef to pull it off. Plus, it’s made with wholesome ingredients like chicken, spinach, and a delicious sun-dried tomato sauce, making it a great choice for a balanced meal that’s both comforting and nutritious.

Ingredients and Preparation

Let’s get started with the ingredients. For this recipe, we’ll need a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, making them a great option for this dish.
• ¾ tablespoon smoked sweet paprika – This adds a warm, smoky flavor that complements the other spices.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that brings that Italian essence to the dish.
• ¾ teaspoon salt – For seasoning the chicken.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a little kick.
• 1 tablespoon sun-dried tomato oil – This oil will be used to cook the chicken and adds extra flavor.

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• 12 oz farfalle pasta – You can use any type of pasta you like, but farfalle (bow-tie pasta) is a fun and rustic choice. You can also opt for gluten-free pasta if needed.
• 2 tablespoons butter – This creates a rich base for the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons dried shallots – A great alternative to onions if you’re looking for a milder, sweeter flavor.
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic – Because what’s a good pasta without garlic?
• 1 tablespoon minced onion – Adds depth to the sauce.
• 3 tablespoons Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 gluten-free flour – This will help thicken the sauce and is a great gluten-free option.
• 2 cups chicken broth – Adds flavor and liquid to the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream – This makes the sauce creamy and indulgent.
• 1 cup shredded parmesan – For a cheesy, creamy finish.
• ¼ cup diced sun-dried tomatoes – These will infuse the sauce with intense, tangy flavor.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – Helps deepen the tomato flavor in the sauce.
• 1 cup diced spinach – Spinach adds a nice color and some healthy greens to balance the dish.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – More herbs to give the sauce that signature Italian taste.
• ½ teaspoon smoked sweet paprika – For an extra hint of smokiness.
• ½ teaspoon salt – To balance out the flavors.
• Chopped fresh basil for garnish – Fresh basil adds a burst of freshness at the end.

Ingredient Alternatives:

• Chicken Thighs: You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs with chicken breasts if preferred. Chicken breasts will work well, but they may need a little more moisture.
• Gluten-Free Pasta: If you’re not gluten-sensitive, you can use regular pasta instead of gluten-free pasta. Penne or spaghetti would both work great.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If sun-dried tomatoes aren’t available, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just sauté them in the oil before adding them to the sauce.
• Spinach: Feel free to swap spinach for kale or arugula if you want to switch up the greens.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Wash the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. This will help the seasoning stick better.
• In a medium bowl, coat the chicken with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated.
• Heat the sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, sear the chicken for about 3 minutes on each side, or until the outside is golden brown. This helps lock in the flavor.
• Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pan. Let the chicken cook for another 6 to 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
• Set the chicken aside to cool for a few minutes, then dice it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

• While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the farfalle pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente.
• Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

• In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
• Add the dried shallots, minced garlic, minced onion, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Sauté for about 2 minutes, or until everything becomes fragrant.
• Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and smoked paprika. This will create a nice, aromatic base for the sauce.
• Add the gluten-free flour to the pan and stir it in to create a roux. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
• Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Then, add the heavy cream and stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
• Add the diced spinach and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
• Stir in the parmesan cheese until it melts and combines into the sauce.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken

• Add the diced chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring gently to combine everything. Let the dish cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to heat everything through.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary, adding more salt or pepper if desired.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Garnish the pasta with freshly chopped basil and serve immediately. Enjoy this creamy, savory pasta that’s sure to impress!

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Chicken Overcooking: If your chicken gets too brown before reaching 165°F, reduce the heat and cover the pan to allow it to cook through without burning.
• Thick Sauce: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
• Spinach Overcooking: If you accidentally overcook the spinach, it can turn mushy. Stir it in at the last minute to keep it fresh and vibrant.
• Pasta Overcooking: Always cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue cooking once combined with the sauce. Drain it just a bit earlier than you might think.

Serving Suggestions

While Marry Me Chicken Pasta is hearty on its own, you can elevate the meal with a few simple sides:

• Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery side is the perfect complement to the creamy pasta.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli or asparagus pairs beautifully with the pasta.

If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to bring the sauce back to life.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dish that combines rich flavors and creamy goodness, all in a beginner-friendly package. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe will surely impress. The easy-to-follow steps and delicious results make it perfect for new cooks who want to build confidence in the kitchen.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients or add your personal touch. Cooking is all about creativity, and this dish gives you plenty of room to make it your own. Share your creations with us in the comments below—how did you make this recipe yours?