Description
This one-pot wonder is so irresistible it earned its “Marry Me” title for a reason. Creamy, savory, and ready in 30 minutes, it just might inspire someone to pop the question.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 oz (225g) penne pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/3 cup (80g) sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup (10g) fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add to the hot oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden but not fully cooked. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
- In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed, then add diced onions. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Add the uncooked pasta to the pot and stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a simmer. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is almost al dente.
- Return the partially cooked chicken to the pot, nestling it into the pasta. Continue simmering, uncovered, for 2-3 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and lemon zest. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 1-2 minutes, then gradually add the grated parmesan cheese while stirring continuously.
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly and coats the pasta, remove from heat. Stir in most of the fresh basil, reserving some for garnish. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional grated parmesan and the reserved fresh basil.