If you’re looking for a creamy, cheesy, and downright delicious dish to impress your loved ones, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake is the answer. This recipe combines tender chicken breast, flavorful pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce with a touch of spice. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner, date night, or even a family gathering. The name says it all—this dish is so good, it might just inspire a proposal! Let’s dive into how to make this crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake is a one-pan wonder that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The combination of juicy chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy, garlicky sauce makes it irresistible. Plus, it’s versatile—you can customize it with your favorite pasta shapes or add extra veggies. It’s also great for meal prep, as leftovers taste just as good the next day.
For those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying indulgent meals, consider pairing this dish with supplements like Moringa Actives, which supports weight loss and metabolism, or NuviaLab Sugar Control to help maintain stable blood sugar levels after a hearty meal.
Ingredients
To make this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed
Here’s the equipment you’ll need to prepare this dish:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking chicken and sauce
- Baking dish (9x13 inch recommended)
- Cutting board for chopping ingredients
- Chef’s knife for cutting chicken and vegetables
- Measuring cups and measuring spoons for precise measurements
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Colander for draining pasta
- Oven mitts for handling hot dishes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by prepping all your ingredients. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Measure out your sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 10-12 minutes). Drain the pasta using a colander and set it aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breast pieces with salt and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, dried basil, and dried oregano. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Add the parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until it wilts. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots. Use oven mitts to carefully remove the dish from the oven.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Let the pasta bake cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Nutritional Facts
Here’s the approximate nutritional information per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
These values may vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used. To support your health goals while enjoying this rich dish, consider Fibre Select, a vital fiber supplement that cleanses the body and enhances digestion, or Cappuccino MCT, a slimming coffee that boosts metabolism and energy.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and spinach enhance the flavor significantly.
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the red pepper flakes or omit them entirely.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the pasta bake up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to toss in mushrooms or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Variations
- Low-Carb Option: Swap rigatoni pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Pair with NuviaLab Keto to support a ketogenic diet.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with tofu or extra veggies like zucchini.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat lovers.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
Pairing Suggestions
This rich pasta bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. For a refreshing drink, try a glass of iced Matcha Extreme, a tea-based supplement that supports weight control and detoxification. For dessert, a light fruit sorbet cleanses the palate.
Health and Wellness Tips
While this dish is indulgent, you can balance it with supplements to support your wellness goals:
- Boost Immunity: Try NuviaLab Immune to strengthen your body’s defenses with natural plant extracts and vitamins.
- Support Joint Health: If you’re active in the kitchen, ProFlexen can help maintain healthy joints for stress-free cooking.
- Reduce Appetite: To avoid overindulging, consider Crave Burner, which helps control appetite and supports fat metabolism.
Why This Recipe Works
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake is a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy depth, while the spinach provides a fresh, nutritious touch. The baked mozzarella cheese creates a golden, gooey topping that’s hard to resist. This dish is simple enough for beginners but impressive enough for special occasions.
For those watching their cholesterol, Lipid Control Plus can support heart health and proper liver function, making it a great addition to your routine.
Final Thoughts
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake is more than just a meal—it’s a showstopper that brings people together. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Try it out, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a family favorite!
For extra health benefits, explore Collagen Select to support skin, hair, and nail health, or Green Coffee 5K for natural weight loss support.
Enjoy cooking, and let this recipe work its magic!
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