Save My roommate Sarah stumbled through the door at 7pm on a Tuesday, exhausted after a failed first date, and demanded something comforting. I raided the pantry and threw together this creamy pasta. We ate it standing up in the kitchen, laughing between bites. By the time the bowls were empty, she was already texting him back. I called it Marry Me Chicken Pasta from that night on.
Last winter my cousin came over after a rough breakup. I made this pasta exactly the same way, watching her face relax as the first creamy bite hit. She asked for the recipe before she even finished her plate. Now she makes it every Sunday and sends me photos of her improving plating skills.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: Cutting it into bite-sized pieces helps it cook faster and absorb more sauce
- Penne or rigatoni pasta: The ridges catch all that creamy sauce in every single bite
- Olive oil: Creates a perfect golden sear on the chicken
- Garlic: Fresh minced makes all the difference here, dont skip it
- Dried Italian herbs: Even a basic blend adds layers of flavor
- Red pepper flakes: Just a tiny kick that makes people ask whats in it
- Canned diced tomatoes: Drain them well so the sauce stays creamy not watery
- Chicken broth: Adds depth without overpowering the cream
- Heavy cream: Creates that silky restaurant style texture
- Parmesan cheese: Buy a block and grate it yourself if you can
- Fresh spinach: Wilts beautifully into the sauce and makes you feel virtuous
- Fresh basil: That final garnish makes the whole dish pop
Instructions
- Get your pasta going first:
- Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente then drain but save some pasta water before you forget
- Sear the chicken perfectly:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet and cook seasoned chicken pieces until golden brown all over
- Build the flavor base:
- Add garlic herbs and red pepper flakes to the hot pan and let them bloom for just one minute until fragrant
- Create the sauce:
- Pour in drained tomatoes and broth then let it simmer together for a few minutes
- Make it creamy:
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan then let it gently thicken until it coats a spoon
- Bring it all together:
- Add chicken back to the skillet with spinach and cook until the greens just wilt
- Coat everything:
- Toss pasta into the sauce adding pasta water if needed to make it silky
- Finish with flair:
- Taste adjust seasonings and sprinkle fresh basil on top before serving
Save My mom made this for my birthday dinner last year. She claimed she hated cooking creamy sauces but stood over the stove stirring for twenty minutes anyway. We served it with way too much wine and she admitted it was actually pretty easy.
Choosing Your Pasta Shape
I've tried this with spaghetti and it just does not work the same way. Short pasta with ridges or tubes holds onto the sauce better. Penne is my go to but rigatoni works beautifully too.
Making It Your Own
Sometimes I add sun dried tomatoes if I want it fancier. Arugula instead of spinach adds a nice peppery bite. The recipe is forgiving enough to handle substitutions.
Serving Suggestions
A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness. Crusty bread is mandatory for sauce sopping. This pasta also pairs perfectly with Pinot Grigio.
- Let everyone add their own red pepper flakes at the table
- Extra Parmesan on the side is never a bad idea
- Serve it in warmed bowls so it stays hot longer
Save This pasta has saved countless weeknights in my house. Hope it becomes a staple in yours too.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs provide a juicier texture and work well in this dish. Adjust cooking time to ensure they're cooked through.
- → What pasta types work best here?
Penne or rigatoni are ideal as their ridges hold the creamy sauce nicely, but other short pasta shapes can be used.
- → Is fresh spinach necessary?
Fresh spinach is optional but adds a mild, leafy flavor and color. You can substitute with arugula or omit if preferred.
- → How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce gently after adding cream and cheese to allow it to thicken. Add reserved pasta water in small amounts for desired consistency.
- → Can I add extra vegetables?
Certainly, sun-dried tomatoes or other veggies can enhance flavor and texture, complementing the creamy sauce well.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio balances the creamy richness, enhancing the meal experience.