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Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This dish combines tender chicken simmered in a creamy tomato and garlic sauce, enhanced with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. The sauce thickens to coat each strand of pasta, creating a rich, flavorful, and visually appealing plate with a velvety texture.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 640
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds chicken breasts boneless, skinless, cut into strips
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional, for heat
  • 1 bunch fresh basil roughly chopped
  • 12 ounces penne pasta or your preferred pasta
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Pot for boiling pasta
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
  3. Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the same skillet. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and the garlic just begins to turn golden.
  4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and develop a creamy consistency.
  5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add the crushed red pepper flakes, and stir to combine. Simmer for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld.
  6. Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce and the ingredients are evenly mixed. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to cling to each strand.
  7. Finish by stirring in the chopped fresh basil, letting its aroma permeate the dish and adding a burst of freshness.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil if desired.

Notes

For an extra depth of flavor, add a splash of white wine when sautéing the garlic. You can also substitute ricotta or Parmesan for a creamier or cheesier version.