Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta – A Budget-Friendly, Restaurant-Style Dinner

Hey, budget foodies. I just made this creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta using just one chicken breast, and it was a hit without breaking the bank. The video is on my channel if u want to show some love and stay updated ❤️ Here’s the recipe:

ingredients:

• 1 chicken breast, sliced in half lengthwise to make two thinner fillets
• 1 egg, beaten
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• salt and pepper to taste
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika powder
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
• 300 grams pasta (penne, fusilli, or any type)
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 2 green chilies, chopped (optional for heat)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 chicken bouillon cube
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1½ teaspoons paprika
• 2 teaspoons oregano powder
• 1½ teaspoons onion powder
• 1 cup cream (or use milk with 1 tablespoon flour to keep it budget-friendly)
• 2 slices cheddar cheese (optional, but adds extra creaminess)

directions:

1. Slice the chicken breast in half to create two thin fillets.
2. Set up three plates: one with the beaten egg, one with the flour mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, and one with breadcrumbs.
3. Coat each fillet in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Air fry at 180°C (356°F) for 12-15 minutes or until crispy and golden. You can also bake or pan-fry. Set aside.
5. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water.
6. In a pan, heat oil and butter over medium heat. Add garlic and green chilies and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
7. Add the onion and tomatoes and cook until they soften.
8. Add the chicken bouillon cube, black pepper, paprika, oregano, and onion powder. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
9. Pour in the cream (or milk + flour mix) and stir. Add cheese slices if using. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water.
10. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
11. Slice the crispy chicken and place it on top of the pasta.

tips:

• If you don’t have cream, use milk and add a bit of flour to thicken the sauce.
• Swap cheddar cheese with any leftover cheese you have – mozzarella, Parmesan, or even a cheese spread.
• For a protein boost, add a can of drained chickpeas or white beans.
• If you want more heat, sprinkle red chili flakes or add more green chilies.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Add a splash of milk or water when reheating to maintain creaminess.

cost breakdown:

• chicken breast: \$1.50
• pasta: \$1.00
• milk/cream: \$0.75
• basic spices and seasonings: \$0.50
• vegetables: \$1.00

total: around \$4.75 for 2-3 servings