This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake is the epitome of comfort food with its rich, cheesy layers and tender chicken slices. The creamy sun-dried tomato sauce perfectly coats the pasta, making each bite a delightful combination of flavors. Topped with crunchy, golden panko and a sprinkle of fresh basil, this dish is as visually appealing as it is tasty. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort. Prepare to fall in love with this irresistible pasta bake!
Full recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or similar)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided
- 2 teaspoons salt, divided
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons sun-dried tomato oil, divided
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (plus 1/2 cup for topping)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup reserved pasta cooking water
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling water until al dente, 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, drain, and transfer the pasta to a 13×9-inch baking dish.
- Season chicken breasts with 1 teaspoon each of Italian seasoning and salt, and black pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 10-15 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Let rest, then thinly slice and add to the baking dish.
- In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of sun-dried tomato oil. Sauté onion and garlic for 6 minutes until softened. Add white wine, tomato paste, and 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2 minutes until liquid reduces.
- Stir in butter until melted, then sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute until thickened. Gradually add reserved pasta water and milk, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Add spinach, remaining 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt. Stir until spinach wilts. Remove from heat and mix in 1 cup mozzarella and 1/4 cup Parmesan until melted. Pour over the pasta mixture and combine well.
- In a small skillet, heat 1 tablespoon sun-dried tomato oil. Toast panko with 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning until golden. Sprinkle the baking dish with remaining sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella, Parmesan, and toasted panko.
- Bake for 15 minutes until cheese melts. Garnish with fresh basil.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Why Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake is a Must-Try Recipe
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake has become a beloved dish among food enthusiasts for its irresistible combination of bold flavors, creamy texture, and comforting appeal. Whether you’re cooking for a special date night, a family dinner, or simply indulging in a cozy meal for yourself, this recipe delivers a show-stopping dining experience that’s both satisfying and memorable.
The Story Behind the Name
The name “Marry Me Chicken” is rooted in culinary folklore, where it’s said that the dish is so good, it might just inspire a proposal! The creamy, cheesy, and savory layers of this pasta bake are undeniably romantic and indulgent, making it a popular choice for date nights or special occasions. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil adds a touch of elegance, elevating this recipe from a simple pasta dish to a gourmet experience.
Why This Recipe is the Best
- Bold and Balanced Flavors
The combination of juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, creamy cheese, and fragrant Italian seasoning creates a flavor profile that is rich and satisfying. The sweetness of the sun-dried tomatoes contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken and creamy sauce, while fresh basil adds a bright, aromatic finish. - Cheesy Perfection
This dish features a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, ensuring a gooey, melty texture in every bite. The toasted panko topping provides the perfect crunchy counterpoint, making the dish irresistibly well-rounded. - Easy to Make
Despite its luxurious taste, this recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly. With simple steps like sautéing, baking, and mixing, it doesn’t require advanced cooking skills, yet the result looks and tastes like a gourmet meal. - Customizable
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake is versatile and can be tailored to your preferences. Want to make it vegetarian? Swap the chicken for mushrooms or roasted vegetables. Prefer a gluten-free version? Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. - Perfect for Leftovers
This recipe reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep. The flavors deepen over time, so your leftovers might taste even better the next day!
Health Benefits
While this dish leans into indulgence, it offers some surprising health benefits:
- Protein-Rich
The chicken provides a hefty dose of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall energy. - Nutrient-Packed Spinach
Spinach adds a vibrant green hue and a dose of iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C. It’s a sneaky way to incorporate more greens into your meal without sacrificing taste. - Balanced Carbohydrates
The pasta provides a source of carbohydrates for sustained energy, making this a hearty and filling meal. - Healthy Fats
Sun-dried tomato oil and cheese add healthy fats that help keep you satiated and contribute to the dish’s creamy texture.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Pasta
Penne, rigatoni, or ziti work best because their ridges hold onto the creamy sauce, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. - Perfectly Cooked Chicken
Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (73°C) for optimal tenderness. Resting the chicken after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, making it even more succulent. - Layer the Flavors
Toasting the panko breadcrumbs and seasoning every layer, from the chicken to the sauce, ensures that the dish is bursting with flavor throughout. - Reserve Pasta Water
Don’t skip reserving the pasta water! Its starchiness helps thicken the sauce and makes it cling beautifully to the pasta.
Pairings and Serving Suggestions
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake is a hearty, standalone dish, but pairing it with complementary sides can create a well-rounded meal:
- Garlic Bread
A slice of crispy garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce. - Side Salad
A light, zesty salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta. - Wine Pairing
Pair this dish with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir for a sophisticated touch. - Dessert
Finish the meal with a light dessert like panna cotta or tiramisu to keep the Italian theme alive.
Why It’s Perfect for Entertaining
Hosting a dinner party? The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake is your secret weapon. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be prepared in advance and baked just before guests arrive. The golden, cheesy topping looks stunning when brought to the table, and the aroma alone will have everyone eagerly awaiting their first bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time. - How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. - Can I Freeze This Dish?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish and freeze it before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. It’s an excellent option for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Conclusion
There’s something magical about a warm, bubbling casserole shared with loved ones. The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to linger at the table, savoring every creamy, cheesy, flavorful bite. Whether you’re cooking for someone special or simply treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to delight.
