If you’ve ever tasted the rich, indulgent flavors of Marry Me Chicken, you know why it earned its dramatic name—it’s so good, it might just make you fall in love with it at first bite. But what if you’re following a keto or low-carb lifestyle? Fear not! With a few clever ingredient swaps, you can enjoy all the creamy, cheesy goodness of this dish while staying true to your dietary goals. Introducing Keto Marry Me Chicken Pasta , a decadent yet keto-friendly version of the classic recipe that substitutes traditional pasta with low-carb alternatives like zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles. In this article, we’ll guide you through making this mouthwatering dish, including its nutritional benefits, step-by-step instructions, and tips for customization.
Why Choose Keto Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Traditional Marry Me Chicken is typically served over high-carb pasta, which can quickly derail a low-carb diet. However, by swapping out regular pasta for keto-friendly options, you can indulge in this creamy, cheesy dish without compromising your health goals. Here’s why this dish is a must-try:
- Low in Carbs : Using zucchini noodles, shirataki noodles, or cauliflower rice drastically reduces the carb count.
- High in Healthy Fats : The creamy sauce, made with butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, provides essential fats that keep you satiated and energized.
- Rich in Protein : Chicken breast is a lean protein source that supports muscle growth and repair.
- Quick and Easy Preparation : This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Perfect for Sharing : Whether you’re cooking for one or serving a crowd, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this Keto Marry Me Chicken Pasta , gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Low-Carb Pasta Base:
- 4 cups zucchini noodles (zoodles), shirataki noodles, or cauliflower rice
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or basil leaves
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Making Keto Marry Me Chicken Pasta is as simple as sautéing, simmering, and serving. Follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to coat it evenly. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 4: Prepare the Low-Carb Pasta Base
While the chicken simmers, prepare your chosen low-carb pasta base. If using zucchini noodles, sauté them in a separate pan with a little olive oil for 2-3 minutes until tender but still crisp. If using shirataki noodles, rinse them thoroughly and briefly pan-fry to remove excess moisture. For cauliflower rice, sauté it for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Divide the low-carb pasta base among serving plates. Top with a piece of chicken and spoon the creamy sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, or red pepper flakes for added flair.
Nutritional Breakdown
One serving of Keto Marry Me Chicken Pasta (assuming 4 servings per batch) typically contains:
- Calories : 450-500
- Protein : 40g
- Fat : 30g
- Carbohydrates : 8-10g (net carbs)
- Fiber : 3g
These numbers may vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used, but overall, this dish fits perfectly within the macronutrient guidelines of a keto diet.
Tips for Customization
One of the best things about Keto Marry Me Chicken Pasta is how versatile it is. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to make it your own:
- Switch Up the Protein : Use chicken thighs, turkey cutlets, or even shrimp for variety.
- Add More Veggies : Incorporate spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Experiment with Cheeses : Try adding ricotta, mozzarella, or feta for unique flavor combinations.
- Make It Spicy : Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery twist.
- Go Veggie-Friendly : Skip the chicken entirely and load up on vegetables like artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Let’s take a closer look at why the main components of this dish are both nutritious and delicious:
Chicken Breast
Chicken is a powerhouse of protein, containing all nine essential amino acids required for muscle growth and recovery. It’s also rich in B vitamins, which support metabolism and brain function.
Heavy Cream and Butter
Dairy products like heavy cream and butter provide healthy saturated fats that are essential for maintaining ketosis. They also add richness and depth to the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan is packed with calcium, protein, and healthy fats. Its nutty flavor enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C. They add a tangy, umami flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Zucchini Noodles
Zucchini is low in carbs and calories but high in water content, making it a hydrating and nutrient-dense alternative to traditional pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While this recipe is straightforward, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Chicken : Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Cook just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Skipping the Sauce Reduction : Letting the sauce simmer ensures it thickens properly. Don’t rush this step!
- Using Sugary Sun-Dried Tomatoes : Opt for sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil or without added sugar to keep the carb count low.
- Overcooking Zucchini Noodles : Zoodles should be tender-crisp, not mushy. Sauté them briefly to avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
This Keto Marry Me Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to round out your meal:
- Side Salad : A simple mixed greens salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar adds freshness and balance.
- Garlic Bread Alternative : Serve with keto-friendly garlic bread made from almond flour or cloud bread.
- Roasted Vegetables : Pair with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrients.
Conclusion
The Keto Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a game-changer for anyone craving the rich, indulgent flavors of traditional Marry Me Chicken while sticking to a low-carb or keto lifestyle. With its creamy, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and satisfying low-carb pasta base, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings without derailing your progress. Best of all, it’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.
So, grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and start crafting this creamy, comforting masterpiece today. Your taste buds—and your waistline—will thank you!
Print
Keto Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Creamy, Low-Carb Delight That’s Irresistible
Ingredients
INGREDIENTS: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
8 oz keto-friendly pasta (like zucchini noodles or shirataki)
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
¼ cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Extra Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook chicken until golden brown, then rest.
3. Boil keto pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter, sauté garlic, then add cream and broth.
5. Stir in Parmesan, thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
6. Add sliced chicken and cooked pasta to the sauce, toss to combine.
7. Garnish with parsley and extra cheese, serve warm.
PREP TIME & NUTRITION:
Prep Time: 10 minutes, Cook Time: 30 minutes, Total Time: 40 minutes, Servings: 4, Calories: 550, Net Carbs: 10g, Fats: 40g, Protein: 35g