Marry Me Chicken & Ravioli: A Dish Worth Falling For
Introduction
Marry Me Chicken & Ravioli is a romantic, creamy dish that’s as heartwarming as its name. The combination of tender chicken, rich, flavorful sauce, and indulgent ravioli makes it perfect for special occasions or simply elevating your everyday dinner table. If you’re a fan of dishes that strike the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication, this recipe is for you. For mastering creamy sauces, check out this Guide to Perfect Alfredo Sauce.
This guide will take you through the ingredients, cooking process, and creative variations for making this dish. Plus, explore related pasta recipes like ExoRecipes’ Slow Cooker Baked Ziti for even more inspiration.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken & Ravioli
To create this irresistible dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless for easy cooking.
- Ravioli: Cheese or spinach-filled for a flavorful base.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Adds tangy depth to the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: For a luscious, creamy texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for maximum flavor.
- Garlic and Onion: Aromatics to enhance the sauce.
- Fresh Herbs: Basil and parsley for garnish.
For tips on preparing ravioli perfectly, read Cooking Ravioli to Perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Chicken
- Seasoning: Coat chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Cooking: Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken until golden on both sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Making the Sauce
- Base: In the same skillet, sauté garlic and onions until fragrant.
- Creamy Texture: Add heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth.
- Seasoning: Adjust with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red chili flakes for heat.
3. Cooking Ravioli
- Boil ravioli in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Combining Everything
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over it.
- Gently fold in the ravioli, ensuring it’s coated in the sauce.
5. Finishing Touches
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil and grated parmesan.
Creative Variations
- Seafood Twist: Replace chicken with shrimp or scallops.
- Vegetarian Option: Use mushroom ravioli and substitute chicken with sautéed spinach.
- Spicy Marry Me Ravioli: Add extra chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic bread or a crisp garden salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
For more creative pasta pairings, try ExoRecipes’ Italian Stromboli.
FAQs About Marry Me Chicken & Ravioli
Q: Can I use store-bought ravioli for this dish?
A: Absolutely! Choose high-quality ravioli for the best flavor.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream to revive the sauce’s texture.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes. Freeze the chicken and sauce separately, then cook fresh ravioli when reheating.
Q: How can I make the dish lighter?
A: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and low-fat parmesan.
Internal Linking Opportunities
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Use the stovetop for best results, adding a splash of cream to maintain consistency.
- Freezing: Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken & Ravioli is a crowd-pleaser that combines the richness of creamy sauces with the heartiness of ravioli. Whether for a romantic dinner or a family meal, this dish guarantees to impress. Try it out today and explore more comforting recipes with ExoRecipes!