Marry Me “Chicken” Pasta (Vegan)

Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Vegan) is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with a creamy plant-based sauce. This one-pot recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends. The standout feature is the crispy tofu fillet, serving as an incredible alternative to chicken, making it a hit among both vegans and non-vegans alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal cleanup, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: A blend of cajun spices and creamy sauce creates a deliciously aromatic experience.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion—from family dinners to potlucks—and pairs well with various sides.
• Plant-Based Goodness: Packed with nutrients and flavor while being entirely vegan-friendly.
• Impressive Presentation: The colorful ingredients and crispy tofu make this dish visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Vegan), you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking simpler and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Casserole dish or large saucepan
• Knife
• Chopping board
• Shallow frying pan
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole dish or large saucepan: Ideal for cooking pasta evenly while allowing all the flavors to meld together.
• Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables and slicing tofu efficiently.
• Chopping board: Provides a safe surface for cutting ingredients, ensuring precision in your prep work.

Ingredients

A beautifully flavored one-pot recipe with cajun spices and a creamy plant-based sauce. Served with a delicious crispy tofu fillet as an incredible chicken alternative.

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp (15g) butter
• 2 shallots
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 5-6 sun-dried tomatoes, finely diced
• 2 tbsp tomato puree
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp cayenne chili pepper
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 500ml vegetable stock
• 150ml plant-based cream

For the Pasta

• 150g bow-tie (farfalle) pasta
• 1 handful fresh basil

For the Tofu Fillets

• 200g tofu, sliced into 2 0.5-inch thick fillets
• 1 tbsp cornflour
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic pepper
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 tbsp oil, to fry

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Vegan)

Step 1: Sauté Shallots

Melt the butter in a casserole dish or large saucepan. Add finely diced shallots, sautéing on low-medium heat for 5-6 minutes until they are soft and translucent.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic to the pan and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add tomato puree, diced sun-dried tomatoes, and seasonings. Stir everything together, then pour in vegetable stock while continuing to stir.

Step 4: Cook Pasta

Pour in your pasta. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 7-8 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add Cream

Pour in plant-based cream and stir. Check if pasta is cooked; if not, simmer for another minute until desired consistency is reached.

Step 6: Prepare Tofu

While the pasta simmers, drain the tofu and pat it dry. Gently squeeze the tofu with a clean cloth to remove excess moisture.

Step 7: Slice Tofu

Slice the tofu into 0.5-inch thick fillets. Optionally shape them into chicken fillet shapes if desired.

Step 8: Coat Tofu

Place cornflour and seasonings on a plate or in a large container; mix together. Dredge the tofu in this seasoned cornflour mix until fully coated.

Step 9: Fry Tofu

Heat oil in a shallow pan over medium heat. Once hot, fry the tofu until crispy on both sides (approximately 2-3 minutes total).

Step 10: Serve

Thinly slice the crispy tofu fillets. Serve over your Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Vegan) garnished with fresh basil. Enjoy!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Vegan)

Serving Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Vegan) can elevate your dining experience, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance this creamy, flavorful dish.

Pair with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Add a handful of fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley can provide a refreshing touch and brighten the dish visually.

Complement with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve with homemade or store-bought garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Ciabatta Rolls: Warm ciabatta rolls make an excellent side for dipping and enjoying with the pasta.

Add a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
• Caesar Salad: A vegan Caesar salad can add crunch and creaminess that pairs well with the pasta’s flavors.

Drizzle with Extra Sauce

• Creamy Dressing: Consider drizzling extra plant-based cream or a vegan pesto over the top for added richness and flavor.
• Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy heat, a few drops of your favorite hot sauce can spice things up wonderfully.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Vegan)

Perfecting Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Vegan) involves attention to detail in both preparation and presentation. Follow these tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavors compared to dried options.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Aim for al dente pasta so it retains its texture even after mixing with the sauce.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you cook; feel free to adjust spices according to your preference for heat or smokiness.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving lets the flavors meld perfectly together.
• Garnish Creatively: Use colorful garnishes like edible flowers or microgreens for an appealing presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Vegan)

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Vegan) can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement its rich flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables – Roast seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots tossed in olive oil and garlic until tender and caramelized.
2. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice adds freshness and crunch to your plate.
3. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing provides protein and fiber alongside your pasta.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Fill bell peppers with rice, beans, and spices for a hearty addition that pairs well with creamy pasta.
5. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil makes for a flavorful appetizer or side.
6. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries seasoned with sea salt offer a sweet contrast to the savory pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Vegan), it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Not properly sautéing shallots: Failing to sauté shallots until soft can lead to a harsh flavor in the dish. Make sure to cook them on low-medium heat until they become translucent for a sweeter taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can result in mushy noodles. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness around the 7-minute mark.
• Skipping the tofu marination: Not seasoning your tofu can leave it bland. Ensure you coat it well with the cornflour and spices to enhance its flavor.
• Using low-quality vegetable stock: A poor stock can diminish the overall taste of your dish. Opt for a high-quality or homemade vegetable broth for better flavor.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a beautiful aroma and flavor. Don’t skip this ingredient; add it right before serving for maximum freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Vegan)

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and consume within 2-3 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Vegan)

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add pasta to a skillet over medium heat with a splash of vegetable stock. Stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Vegan):

What makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Vegan) special?

This dish combines rich flavors from cajun spices with creamy plant-based sauce, making it a comforting meal that even non-vegans will love.

Can I customize the ingredients in Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Vegan)?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. Feel free to adjust seasonings according to your taste!

How spicy is Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Vegan)?

The level of spice comes from cayenne chili pepper; you can reduce or eliminate it if you prefer a milder dish.

What type of pasta works best?

Bow-tie (farfalle) pasta is used here, but feel free to substitute with any shape you enjoy, such as penne or fusilli.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Vegan) is not just delicious but also versatile. With its creamy texture and bold flavors, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. Customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust spices for a personal touch. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Marry Me “Chicken” Pasta (Vegan)

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the creamy, flavorful goodness of Marry Me “Chicken” Pasta (Vegan), a delightful one-pot meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This dish features a rich plant-based sauce infused with cajun spices, all topped off with crispy tofu fillets that serve as an amazing chicken alternative. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also visually stunning, making it a crowd-pleaser for vegans and non-vegans alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 150g bow-tie (farfalle) pasta
• 200g tofu
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 shallots
• 2 cloves garlic
• 5–6 sun-dried tomatoes
• 500ml vegetable stock
• 150ml plant-based cream
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp cayenne chili pepper
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp cornflour
• 1 tsp smoked paprika for tofu
• 1 tsp garlic pepper
• 1 tsp oregano for tofu
• 1 tsp salt for tofu
• 3 tbsp oil for frying
• 1 handful fresh basil

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Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté diced shallots until soft.
2. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Stir in tomato puree, sun-dried tomatoes, and spices; mix well.
4. Pour in vegetable stock and bring to a boil.
5. Add pasta; reduce heat and simmer for 7-8 minutes, stirring frequently.
6. Stir in plant-based cream and check pasta for doneness.
7. While pasta simmers, prepare tofu by slicing it into fillets and coating with seasoned cornflour.
8. Fry tofu fillets in oil until crispy on both sides.
9. Serve the pasta topped with crispy tofu and fresh basil.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Vegan

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 485
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 745mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 0mg