Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, irresistible dish that combines tender chicken thighs, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich Parmesan sauce. Perfect for gluten-free diets, this easy-to-make pasta recipe is bursting with flavors from Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic. The creamy, comforting sauce pairs beautifully with farfalle pasta, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish will leave everyone asking for the recipe. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• ¾ tablespoon smoked sweet paprika
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon sun-dried tomato oil (from jarred sun-dried tomatoes)

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz farfalle pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons dried shallots
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced onion
• 3 tablespoons Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 gluten-free flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup diced sun-dried tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup diced spinach
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked sweet paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Chopped fresh basil for garnish

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Wash the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, coat the chicken with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
   Heat the sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for about 3 minutes on each side.
   Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for an additional 6 to 10 minutes until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
   Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to cool.
2. Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the farfalle pasta according to package directions for al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the dried shallots, minced garlic, minced onion, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and smoked paprika. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
   Stir in the gluten-free flour and cook for another minute.
   Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and add the spinach. Let the sauce simmer, thickening as the spinach wilts.
   Add the shredded Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes creamy.
4. Assemble the Dish: While the sauce is cooking, dice the cooled chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add the diced chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring gently to combine everything.
   Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken thighs, creamy pasta, and a rich, savory sauce. The balance of smoked paprika, Italian herbs, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a depth of flavor that will make this meal a new favorite in your dinner rotation. This gluten-free recipe is easy to prepare, perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a special occasion.

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Tips

• Chicken Cooking Tip: To ensure the chicken stays juicy, don’t overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Pasta Cooking Tip: For the best texture, cook the pasta al dente and toss it into the sauce immediately after draining to help it absorb the flavors.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat and combine with fresh pasta.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Different Pasta: Feel free to use any pasta you prefer, such as gluten-free penne, rigatoni, or regular farfalle if you’re not following a gluten-free diet.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and sausage and add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian dish.
• Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese for the Parmesan.

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FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time since chicken breasts cook faster.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free Parmesan or a plant-based alternative.

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Serving Suggestions

This rich and creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta pairs perfectly with a light green salad or roasted vegetables. For an extra touch, serve it with garlic bread or a side of sautéed greens like spinach or kale. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or fresh basil will enhance the dish further, adding color and flavor.