Marry Me Chicken Pasta
A cozy, romantic weeknight favorite that combines tender chicken, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, and fresh basil for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thin Chicken thighs can be used for juicier bites.
- 1/2 cup Sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped Adds concentrated sweetness and depth.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced Adds warm aroma.
- 1 cup Chicken broth Use low sodium if preferred.
- 1 cup Heavy cream Can be swapped for half-and-half or coconut cream.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option.
- 1 pinch Crushed red pepper flakes Optional for a subtle kick.
- 1 handful Fresh basil, torn Brightens the sauce.
- 12 ounces Pasta of choice (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni) Gluten-free pasta works well.
- 1 lemon Lemon zest For finishing brightness.
- to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons Olive oil For searing chicken.
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sear the chicken slices for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove onto a plate and tent with foil to rest.
- Lower the heat to medium and add another drizzle of oil if needed. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the pan to release any browned bits. Let it reduce for 2 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add grated Parmesan and whisk until silky and slightly thickened.
- Toss in cooked pasta directly into the sauce and fold in the sliced chicken and torn basil.
- Finish with lemon zest and a grind of black pepper. Serve immediately garnished with extra basil and Parmesan.
Notes
Make it dairy-free by swapping cream for full-fat coconut milk and Parmesan for nutritional yeast. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.