Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake
I stumbled upon the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake during one of those chilly evenings where comfort food was the only solution to lifting spirits. As I flipped through an old recipe book gifted by my grandmother, the love-filled ingredient list caught my eye. I could almost hear her voice as she guided me through the process of creating a dish that not only fills the stomach but also warms the heart. With each layer of pasta, creamy sauce, and tender chicken, I felt a connection to my family heritage, making this recipe special to me. It’s a meal that brings the family together at the dinner table, creating lasting memories infused with laughter and love.
The joy of this dish isn’t just the comforting flavors but also the unwavering smiles at the dining table. It’s a timeless recipe that, when shared, ignites warmth in anyone’s heart.
What Makes This Recipe Special
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake is truly a standout dish, and it’s easy to see why; it beautifully marries creamy textures with robust flavors. What captures everyone’s heart is the ease of preparation and the wholesome satisfaction it brings. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a dreamy experience worthy of any special occasion but it’s also perfect for weeknight dinners. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, this pasta bake will leave everyone at the table wanting seconds (and maybe even proposing). Whether you’re looking to impress at a gathering or simply cooking for the family, this dish is sure to be a hit!
Ingredient List
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces penne or rotini pasta, uncooked
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded for topping
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves, for topping
When selecting your ingredients, choose fresh produce for the best flavors. If you’re looking to lighten the dish, you can swap heavy cream for a combination of Greek yogurt and milk without losing that creamy essence.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grab a 9×13-inch baking dish. A warm oven is the first step toward ensuring that your pasta bake reaches a glorious golden finish.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and let it rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, around 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, sauce, spinach, and cherry tomatoes. Mix thoroughly, ensuring everything is well coated in that creamy goodness.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once your pasta bake is done, pull it out of the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Expert Tips & Ideas
- Chicken Alternatives: Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or sprinkle fresh lemon juice for brightness.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just increase the baking time by about 10 minutes.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for optimal texture.
How to Enjoy This Dish
Pair the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake with a crisp side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. A glass of white wine, like a chilled Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creaminess beautifully. For an added touch, serve with warm garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce!
Common Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Feel free to prepare it a day in advance and bake it just before serving.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Allow the pasta bake to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of Greek yogurt and milk for a lighter version.
How do I prevent the dish from becoming watery?
Make sure to thicken your sauce adequately before mixing it with the pasta, and avoid overcooking the vegetables.
Can I make this vegetarian or dairy-free?
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. For dairy-free, use a plant-based cream and skip the cheese.
Conclusion
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that delights the senses and evokes the joy of shared gatherings around the dinner table. It holds the power to bring friends and family together, creating memories that last long after the final bite. I encourage you to try this recipe, savor its deliciousness, and share your experiences I would love to hear how it brought joy to your table!
“Every bite of this dish feels like a big, warm hug! It’s a new family favorite that we keep coming back to.”
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grab a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and let it rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
- In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, around 5-7 minutes.
- In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, sauce, spinach, and cherry tomatoes.
- Mix thoroughly, ensuring everything is well coated in the creamy goodness.
- Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of mozzarella.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Once your pasta bake is done, pull it out of the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
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