1. Cook the Pasta: Achieving Al Dente Perfection

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
2. Add Pasta: Add the pasta to the boiling water.
3. Cook According to Package Directions: Cook the pasta according to the package directions, until it’s al dente – cooked through but still firm to the bite.
4. Drain: Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and set aside.

2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Building the Aromatic Base

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add Onions and Garlic: Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet.
3. Sauté: Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.

3. Cook the Chicken: Seasoning and Searing for Tenderness

1. Add Butter: Add the butter to the skillet with the onions and garlic, allowing it to melt completely.
2. Add Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet.
3. Season Chicken: Season the chicken generously with ½ teaspoon each of Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook Through: Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

4. Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: Rich and Flavorful

1. Add Heavy Cream: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the cooked chicken.
2. Stir in Parmesan: Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet.
3. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the sauce has thickened slightly, about 2-3 minutes.

5. Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Adding a Tangy Sweetness

1. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes.

6. Combine with Pasta: Bringing it All Together

1. Add Cooked Pasta: Add the drained, cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and sauce.
2. Toss to Coat: Gently toss the pasta with the sauce until it’s evenly coated.

7. Garnish and Serve: The Final Flourish

1. Garnish: Garnish the Marry Me Chicken Pasta with fresh basil leaves.
2. Serve Immediately: Serve immediately while it’s hot and the sauce is creamy.

Troubleshooting Common Problems: Tips for Pasta Success

• Sauce Too Thin:
  • Problem: The sauce is too watery.
  • Solutions: Simmer the sauce for a few more minutes, uncovered, to allow it to reduce and thicken. You can also whisk in a slurry of 1 teaspoon cornstarch and 1 tablespoon cold water.
• Chicken Dry:
  • Problem: The chicken is overcooked and dry.
  • Solutions: Make sure not to overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F or 74°C). Using chicken thighs instead of breasts can also help, as they are more forgiving.
• Pasta Sticking Together:
  • Problem: The cooked pasta is sticking together.
  • Solutions: Make sure to cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling, salted water. Stir the pasta occasionally while it’s cooking. Drain the pasta immediately after cooking and toss it with the sauce right away.