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Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Rich, creamy pasta with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach in a luxurious garlic Parmesan sauce that's irresistibly romantic.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach
Seasonings
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot for pasta
  • Colander
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
  5. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute to release the flavors.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Add the Parmesan cheese and whisk until melted and smooth. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually.
  8. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the fresh spinach, stirring until spinach is wilted.
  9. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

For best results, don't let the cream boil to prevent separation. This dish is best served immediately but can be reheated gently with a splash of milk or broth. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.