by: NiseyPosted on:

Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Indulge in a culinary journey that whispers amore with every bite – the Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Pasta. This Valentine’s Day, let the tantalizing aroma of perfectly seasoned chicken and the rich, creamy allure of Tuscan-inspired sauce set the stage for an intimate dining experience. Crafted with love, this dish is a symphony of flavors, inviting you to savor the essence of romance. It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary masterpiece designed to evoke emotions and, perhaps, even inspire a proposal!

Taste Profile:

For the Chicken: Delicate slices of chicken, adorned with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, are coated in a flour embrace that adds a golden crispness. Pan-seared with love in olive oil and butter, the chicken becomes a tender canvas for the luscious Tuscan sauce.

For the Sauce: A velvety elixir of heavy whipping cream, enriched with the depth of tomato paste, minced garlic, red bell pepper, roasted bell pepper, diced shallots, and the sun-kissed sweetness of sundried tomatoes. Basil, paprika (optional), and a handful of baby spinach dance in harmony, while Parmesan and Romano cheeses entwine to create a symphony of savory delight.

For the Pasta: Heart-shaped pasta, a canvas for affection, boiled al dente, waits eagerly to cradle the Tuscan magic. Cooked with care, it becomes the vessel for love to be delivered to every heart.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken and Pasta:

  • 4-6 chicken breasts (thinly sliced or halved)
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper
  • Flour (for coating)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • Basil for garnish
  • 1 box Barilla heart-shaped pasta
  • Salt
  • Water (for boiling)

For the Sauce:

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1-2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 5-6 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1/2 red bell pepper (chopped)
  • 1 roasted bell pepper
  • 1/2 shallot (diced)
  • 6-7 oz sundried tomatoes (with a couple of tbsp of oil, chopped)
  • Basil (chopped, to taste)
  • Paprika (optional)
  • Baby spinach (as much as desired)
  • Pepper (to taste)
  • 1/2 to 2/3 cup shredded Parmesan
  • 1/2 cup shredded Romano cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

  • Season chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  • Coat chicken in flour on both sides.
  • In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter. Sear chicken until golden brown. Set aside.

2. Make the Sauce:

  • In the same skillet, add garlic, red bell pepper, roasted bell pepper, shallots, and sundried tomatoes with oil.
  • Pour in heavy whipping cream, add tomato paste, and stir.
  • Toss paprika (if using), and baby spinach. Season with pepper.
  • Stir in Parmesan and Romano cheeses until melted.

3. Cook the Pasta:

  • Boil heart-shaped pasta in salted water until al dente according to box instructions.

4. Combine and Serve:

  • Add seared chicken to the sauce, letting it simmer for a few minutes.
  • Drain pasta and add it to the skillet, tossing until well-coated.
  • Serve the Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Pasta with a garnish of basil and grated parmesan.

Pro Tips and Hacks:

  1. Prep Ahead: Marinate the chicken in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper a few hours before cooking for enhanced flavor.
  2. Perfectly Seared Chicken: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding chicken. Sear each side until golden brown for a juicy and flavorful result.
  3. Roasted Bell Pepper Shortcut: Use store-bought roasted bell peppers to save time. They bring a smoky sweetness to the sauce.
  4. Creamy Sauce Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the sauce by controlling the amount of heavy cream. For a thicker consistency, use less; for a creamier texture, add more.
  5. Sundried Tomatoes Flavor Boost: The oil from the sundried tomatoes adds an extra layer of richness. Don’t let it go to waste; incorporate it into the sauce.
  6. Leafy Greens Trick: Add baby spinach at the end to preserve its color and texture. It wilts quickly, and this keeps it vibrant.
  7. Cheese Blend: The combination of Parmesan and Romano cheeses creates a balanced and robust cheesy flavor in the sauce.
  8. Heart-Shaped Pasta Presentation: Use heart-shaped pasta for a romantic touch. Cooking it al dente ensures a perfect texture.
  9. Proposal-Worthy Ambiance: Set the mood with dim lighting, candles, and soft music. This dish’s delightful aroma and flavors might just inspire a memorable moment.
  10. Serve with Love: Present the Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Pasta with a heartwarming smile. The love you put into the preparation enhances the dining experience.

Pairing Ideas:

  • Candlelit Magic: Set the stage with soft candlelight, creating an ambiance that enhances the romantic allure of the meal.
  • Wine of Love: Choose a red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Chianti or Merlot, to complement the richness of the dish and elevate the romantic experience.
  • Sweet Proposal: Consider sealing the evening with a sweet finale, perhaps a shared dessert or a gesture that might lead to a romantic proposal.

This dish, with its savory symphony and romantic undertones, sets the stage for unforgettable moments. So, as you savor each bite, let the Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Pasta be the catalyst for a declaration of love that transcends time. Bon appétit, and may love abound!