There are some meals that are just too delicious to ignore, and the Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is one of those dishes that will have your loved ones falling head over heels for you. This recipe combines tender chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and a rich, creamy sauce that envelops perfectly cooked penne pasta. It’s a dish that’s not only comforting but also packed with flavor—a combination so irresistible that it could just make someone ask, “Will you marry me?”

Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner for two, a family gathering, or just a comforting meal to enjoy after a long day, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect choice. This dish is quick and easy to make, packed with rich flavors, and guaranteed to be a hit with anyone who tries it. So, let’s dive into the ingredients and the simple, step-by-step instructions for making this unforgettable pasta dish!

Ingredients for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

The beauty of Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta lies in its simplicity. It uses a combination of fresh ingredients that come together to create a luscious, mouth-watering dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

500g penne pasta
500g chicken breasts (diced)
4 slices turkey bacon (chopped)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

These ingredients are easy to find at any grocery store, and they come together to make a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. The creamy sauce, combined with the savory chicken, crispy bacon, and al dente pasta, creates a flavorful experience with every bite.

Dietary Substitutions and Variations

While this recipe is already a crowd-pleaser, you can customize it to fit dietary needs:

Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free heavy cream substitute and dairy-free Parmesan cheese.
Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free penne pasta to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Lower Fat: Swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or a low-fat milk alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Now, let’s go through the steps to make this delectable Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Each step builds on the last to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and has that perfect creamy texture everyone loves.

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions, or until the pasta is al dente. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.

Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. This will allow you to focus on the other elements of the dish without worrying about the pasta overcooking.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet or pan, heat a bit of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken to the skillet, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until it’s golden brown on the outside and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

By searing the chicken first, you ensure that it develops a flavorful crust, locking in the juices and tenderness.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In the same skillet, add the chopped turkey bacon. Cook it over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes crispy. The bacon will render some fat, which will help to enhance the flavor of the sauce in the next step.

Once the bacon is crisped to perfection, remove it from the pan and set it aside with the chicken.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Now, it’s time to make the creamy sauce that will bring the entire dish together. In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add the Italian seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese to the pan, and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce begins to thicken. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly reduce.

The heavy cream and chicken broth provide the perfect balance of richness and flavor, while the Parmesan adds a sharp, savory note that complements the rest of the dish.

Step 5: Combine the Chicken, Bacon, and Pasta

Once the sauce has thickened, return the seared chicken and crispy turkey bacon to the skillet. Add the cooked penne pasta to the pan and toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the pasta to soak up some of the sauce and heat through.

This step is essential for ensuring that every bite is packed with the perfect balance of creamy sauce, chicken, and bacon.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is combined and heated through, transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a burst of freshness. If desired, you can also sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy touch.

Serve this Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta warm, and watch as your guests rave about the incredible flavors!

Tips for Perfect Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Don’t overcook the pasta: Make sure the penne is al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Use freshly grated Parmesan: While pre-grated Parmesan works in a pinch, freshly grated cheese will add more depth and flavor to the sauce.
Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, and garlic powder to suit your preference.
Make it ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

Nutritional Information for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

While this dish is undeniably rich, it’s also a balanced meal with protein from the chicken and turkey bacon, and healthy fats from the cream and Parmesan cheese. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values:

Calories per serving: Approximately 600-700 kcal (depending on portion size)
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g

Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on substitutions and portion sizes.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you love Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you might also enjoy these other pasta and comfort food recipes that are packed with flavor and sure to satisfy:

Creamy Steak Pasta: A hearty and indulgent steak and pasta dish with a creamy, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for any occasion.
Loaded Cheeseburger Stuffed Pasta Shells: A fun and filling pasta dish where stuffed shells are loaded with a cheeseburger-inspired filling.
Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole: A casserole that combines all the flavors of a meat lover’s pizza into a comforting, cheesy dish.

FAQs for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Can I Use Regular Bacon Instead of Turkey Bacon?

Yes, you can substitute regular bacon for turkey bacon. However, turkey bacon is leaner, so if you use regular bacon, be sure to drain any excess grease before adding the sauce ingredients.

Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?

Absolutely! While penne pasta works wonderfully in this recipe, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, rigatoni, or even spaghetti.

How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or seasoning the chicken with cayenne pepper before cooking.

Can I Make This Recipe Without Chicken?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian or pescatarian option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times based on your protein choice.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect comfort food that brings together rich flavors, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy pasta in one incredible dish. Whether you’re preparing a meal for a special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s guaranteed to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as unforgettable as it is delicious!

Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Rich & Savory Delight

Author: MixMealMagic
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish made with tender chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and a rich, creamy sauce. Perfectly seasoned and topped with Parmesan cheese, this easy-to-make pasta is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

500g penne pasta
500g chicken breasts (diced)
4 slices turkey bacon (chopped)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil the penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until golden, then remove and set aside.
Cook the Turkey Bacon: In the same skillet, cook the chopped turkey bacon until crisp.
Make the Sauce: Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss well to coat everything in the sauce.
Garnish and Serve: Top with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon.
If the sauce gets too thick while cooling, simply add a bit more chicken broth or cream when reheating.
You can substitute penne pasta with other pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American, Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 560 kcal
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 750mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta, creamy chicken pasta, chicken pasta recipe, easy pasta dinner, creamy pasta dish, comfort food pasta, chicken and bacon pasta