Why is it called "marry me pasta"?

"Marry me pasta" gets its name from its irresistible flavors—so good that it might just earn you a marriage proposal! The creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce, combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, creates a dish that's rich, comforting, and downright impressive. It's the perfect balance of flavors and textures that make it a favorite for romantic dinners or special occasions.

What is the difference between chicken parmigiana and Parmesan?

While both dishes involve chicken and Parmesan cheese, they are quite different in preparation and presentation. Chicken Parmigiana (Chicken Parmesan): A breaded and fried chicken cutlet topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, often served with pasta or on a sandwich. Parmesan Chicken (like in garlic Parmesan chicken pasta): Typically unbreaded chicken cooked in a creamy Parmesan garlic sauce, mixed directly with pasta for a rich and satisfying meal. Both dishes are delicious but have different textures and flavor profiles!

Should you add Parmesan to pasta?

Absolutely! Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty, and slightly salty flavor that enhances pasta dishes. Whether it's freshly grated or pre-shredded, it melts beautifully into sauces, giving the dish a creamy, savory touch. Adding Parmesan to pasta not only improves the taste but also helps thicken the sauce and add depth to the overall flavor. Want to take your pasta up a notch? Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top just before serving for an added burst of flavor.

What to serve with Ina Garten's Parmesan chicken?

Ina Garten's Parmesan chicken, known for its crispy, golden coating and flavorful seasoning, pairs well with several sides to create a balanced meal. Some great options include: Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they complement the crispiness of the chicken. Arugula salad: A fresh, peppery salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the dish. Roasted vegetables: Try asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a colorful and healthy addition. Pasta with olive oil and herbs: A simple, light pasta dish pairs well without overpowering the flavors.

Easy 1-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Description

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and garlicky dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners. Tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich Parmesan sauce come together in a one-pot meal that’s easy to make and sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta (or preferred pasta type)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream (or milk alternative)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

1 cup baby spinach
½ cup mushrooms, sliced

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:
- Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Cook the Pasta:
- In the same skillet, add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook until al dente, stirring occasionally.
Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- Lower the heat and melt butter. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream and cream cheese, whisking until smooth.
- Add grated Parmesan and red pepper flakes. Stir well and simmer until sauce thickens.
Combine Everything:
- Slice or shred the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet.
- Toss everything together until coated in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Notes

For extra richness, substitute heavy cream with Alfredo sauce.
Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
To make it healthier, swap cream with Greek yogurt and use whole wheat pasta.
Add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms for more nutrition.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop (one-pot)
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 720 kcal
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 850mg
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 42g
Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: creamy pasta, chicken pasta recipe, garlic Parmesan pasta, easy weeknight dinner, one-pot meal