Easy Merry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Looking for a quick and mouthwatering dinner that feels indulgent? This Merry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is everything you need. The rich, creamy sauce with savory sun-dried tomatoes clings to perfectly cooked pasta, while tender chicken brings it all together. Plus, it’s ready in less than 30 minutes, making it the perfect go-to for busy evenings or a special dinner date!

Why This Recipe Will Steal Your Heart:

This dish is creamy, comforting, and full of flavor, perfect for a special night or a weekday treat. The Parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes create a delicate balance of savory and sweet, making it impossible to stop at one bite. The creamy texture and the slight tang from the sun-dried tomatoes are a match made in heaven. Not to mention, the chicken adds a hearty touch that makes this meal both satisfying and delicious.

Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or treating yourself, this pasta recipe will certainly make an impression. It’s simple, yet elegant, an easy way to add a gourmet touch to your meal without hours of effort.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts (thinly sliced, boneless and skinless)
  
• 8 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni work well for this recipe)
  
• 1 cup heavy cream (for that rich, velvety texture)
  
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium for control over salt content)
  
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for the best flavor)
  
• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped, preferably packed in oil for added flavor)
  
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (to enhance the savory flavor)
  
• 2 cloves garlic (minced, for that aromatic base)
  
• Salt & pepper (to taste)
  
• Olive oil (for cooking)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

• Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  
• Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes) until it reaches al dente.
  
• Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta water to use later if needed to adjust the sauce.

2. Cook the Chicken:

• While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts.
  
• Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. You should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.

3. Make the Sauce:

• In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
  
• Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their oils.
  
• Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  
• Lower the heat and add the heavy cream. Stir to combine, then add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce.
  
• Season with additional salt and pepper as needed. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.

4. Combine the Pasta and Chicken:

• Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
  
• Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing it to coat the pasta evenly.
  
• Add the sliced chicken and toss everything together, ensuring it’s well coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
  
• Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• Plate the pasta and chicken mixture, topping with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Tips to Elevate Your Merry Me Chicken Pasta:

• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts much better than pre-grated cheese and adds a richer flavor to your sauce.
  
• Add Vegetables: To balance the richness, consider adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Sauté them with the garlic before adding the sun-dried tomatoes.
  
• Customize the Spice: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce.
  
• Perfect Chicken: For the juiciest chicken, make sure not to overcook it. You can also marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for an extra layer of flavor.
  
• Make It Ahead: This recipe can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
  
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option. You can also try other types of pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine, but penne and rigatoni work particularly well because they hold the sauce beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Merry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is an easy, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in, a romantic dinner, or a weeknight family feast. It combines simple ingredients like chicken, pasta, and sun-dried tomatoes into an elegant dish that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests or loved ones with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.