Marry Me Chicken Pasta
A creamy, baked chicken pasta dish with a blend of cream cheese, heavy cream, and parmesan, topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs. Perfect for date night or a special occasion.
Equipment
- 1 9x13 inch baking dish (oven-safe)
- 1 Large Skillet
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Measuring cups/spoons
- 1 Oven mitts
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti dry
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into strips)
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese divided
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil divided
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the baking dish.
- Cook Pasta: Boil spaghetti al dente (8-10 mins). Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
- Sear Chicken: In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Cook chicken until golden (6-8 mins). Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Make Sauce: In a bowl, blend cream cheese, heavy cream, ½ cup parmesan, and minced garlic until smooth.
- Combine: Mix spaghetti, chicken, sauce, and ¼ cup panko in the baking dish. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
- Top: Sprinkle remaining parmesan and panko. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Bake: Cook 30-35 mins until bubbly and golden. Let rest 10 mins.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley. Pair with a side salad.
Notes
-
Use rotisserie chicken for shortcuts.
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Adjust spice level by adding red pepper flakes.
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Store leftovers in airtight containers (3-4 days).
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Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15 mins.