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Marry Me Chicken & Ravioli: The Ultimate Creamy Comfort Food!
Introduction: The Ultimate Creamy Comfort Food
Did you know that comfort food recipes featuring creamy sauces and pasta have seen a 47% increase in online searches over the past year? It’s clear we’re all craving that warm, satisfying hug from a plate. Welcome to the recipe that’s destined to capture hearts and taste buds alike – Heavenly Creamy Chicken Ravioli! This delightful combination of tender, seasoned chicken and rich, cheesy ravioli drenched in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce is truly a showstopper. Also known as Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli, this dish is rumored to be so delicious it could lead to a proposal! Whether you’re cooking for someone special or treating yourself, this recipe is the perfect choice for comfort, flavor, and a touch of romance. It’s a one-pan wonder that delivers restaurant-quality decadence with surprisingly simple steps. Let’s dive into the magic of creating this legendary dish.
Ingredients List
Gather these high-quality ingredients for the most flavorful results. The synergy between the savory chicken, pillowy ravioli, and tangy-creamy sauce is what makes this dish unforgettable.
- For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Thighs offer a richer, more succulent flavor and are harder to overcook. Look for plump, pink flesh.
- 1 tsp each of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried Italian seasoning – This blend creates a savory, aromatic crust. For a fresher punch, use 1 tbsp of finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Season generously to enhance all other flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – For searing. Avocado oil is a great high-smoke-point substitute.
- For the Sauce & Ravioli:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – The fragrant backbone of the sauce. Use a microplane for a paste-like consistency that melts seamlessly into the cream.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped – They provide a sweet, tangy, and slightly chewy contrast. Substitution: If using dry-packed, rehydrate in hot water for 10 minutes first.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth – The foundation for our sauce. Vegetable broth works for a poultry-free version.
- 1 cup heavy cream – For that luxurious, velvety texture. Lighter option: Half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk (for dairy-free).
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty depth. Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – For a subtle warmth that cuts through the richness.
- 20 oz package of fresh cheese ravioli – The star vehicle for the sauce. Look for plump, refrigerated ravioli with visible filling. Frozen ravioli work too; just adjust cooking time.
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach – Adds a pop of color and nutrients, wilting beautifully into the hot sauce.
- For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Timing
15 minutes
25 minutes
40 minutes
At just 40 minutes from start to finish, this Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli is a weeknight hero. Compared to the average pasta dish that might take an hour with separate components, this one-pan method is remarkably efficient. The active cooking time is focused and fluid, allowing you to build layers of flavor while the ravioli cooks in the same glorious sauce. It’s about 30% faster than many traditional baked pasta casseroles, delivering gourmet results in a fraction of the time.
A stunning plate of Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli, featuring golden chicken pieces and cheese ravioli coated in a luscious, speckled sun-dried tomato cream sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat your chicken pieces completely dry with paper towels. This is my secret for achieving a perfect golden sear instead of steaming. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Sprinkle this aromatic rub evenly over all sides of the chicken, gently pressing it in to adhere. Let it sit for 5 minutes while you prep your other ingredients—this allows the seasoning to start penetrating the meat.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the chicken. You should hear a confident sizzle. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, without moving it, until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a clean plate and tent loosely with foil. It will continue to cook slightly and retain its precious juices.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. You’ll see those glorious browned bits (fond) stuck to the pan—that’s pure flavor! Add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for just 60 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the fond from the bottom of the pan. This process, called deglazing, is where the sauce’s deep, savory character is born.
Step 4: Cook the Ravioli
Increase the heat to bring the broth to a lively simmer. Gently add the fresh ravioli directly to the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook according to package directions, usually 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. They will absorb the savory broth as they cook, infusing them with flavor from the inside out.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and red pepper flakes (if using). Slice the rested chicken into bite-sized strips or chunks and return them to the skillet, along with any accumulated juices. Add the fresh baby spinach. Gently stir everything together until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon. Avoid a rolling boil to prevent the cream from separating.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch more salt or pepper if needed. For the final touch, spoon the creamy chicken and ravioli into shallow bowls. Garnish generously with a shower of fresh basil or parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while it’s piping hot and irresistibly creamy.
Nutritional Information
The following is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings). For precise tracking, use a recipe calculator with your exact brands and measurements.
- Calories: ~580 kcal
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
- Sodium: 850mg (can be lowered with low-sodium broth and less added salt)
Healthier Alternatives
You can absolutely enjoy this comforting dish while aligning with your nutritional goals. Here are my favorite swaps that don’t sacrifice flavor:
- Lighter Cream Base: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half mixed with 1 tbsp of cornstarch (slurry) to maintain thickness. For a dairy-free version, use full-fat canned coconut milk—it provides a similar richness.
- Leaner Protein: Use chicken breasts exclusively and trim all visible fat. For a plant-based twist, use thick slices of portobello mushrooms or seasoned chickpeas.
- Whole-Grain & Veggie Boost: Opt for whole-wheat or lentil-based ravioli. Increase the spinach to 4 cups and add other quick-cooking veggies like sliced zucchini or bell peppers with the garlic.
- Reduce Sodium: Use homemade or no-salt-added chicken broth and limit added salt, relying on herbs, garlic, and the Parmesan for seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a complete meal in a bowl, but the right accompaniments can elevate it to a feast:
- Bread: A crusty baguette or warm garlic bread is non-negotiable for sopping up every last drop of the creamy sauce.
- Salad: A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette provides a bright, peppery contrast that cuts through the richness beautifully.
- Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied white like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce. For red lovers, a light-bodied Pinot Noir works wonderfully.
- For a Romantic Dinner: Plate individually, light some candles, and pair with sparkling water with a twist of lemon. Keep the focus on the star of the show—the Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Searing the chicken in a crowded pan steams it instead of browning it. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: It often contains cellulose, which can prevent smooth melting and create a grainy sauce. Take the extra minute to grate it fresh.
