If you’re searching for a meal that’s equal parts romantic, comforting, and downright irresistible, look no further than Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This creamy, dreamy dish boasts golden chicken, a luscious Parmesan cream sauce dotted with sun-dried tomatoes, and tender pasta that soaks up every drop. Whether you’re wooing a loved one, feeding the family, or just craving something spectacular on a weeknight, Marry Me Chicken Pasta delivers bold flavors and looks gorgeous enough to impress any dinner guest.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things refreshingly simple, using pantry staples and just a handful of fresh ingredients that truly shine together. Each ingredient is a building block: from the chicken that brings protein and heartiness to the sun-dried tomatoes that add bursts of sweet tang, every piece plays a starring role in the final result.

Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the chicken brown beautifully.
Chicken breasts: Tender slices of protein that form the savory backbone of this dish.
Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together—season the chicken generously!
Black pepper: A little heat and depth to balance out the creamy sauce.
Garlic powder: Boosts the savory notes and layers extra flavor onto the chicken.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs for that authentic Italian-inspired aroma.
Fresh garlic: Sautéed until fragrant, this is where the cozy, warm flavor blooms.
Chicken broth: Deglazes the pan and forms the juicy foundation for the sauce.
Heavy cream: Creates that signature silkiness and an indulgent, velvety texture.
Parmesan cheese: Salty, nutty, and perfectly melts into the sauce for body and flavor.
Sun-dried tomatoes: Bursts of tangy sweetness, beautiful both in flavor and color.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For a little gentle heat that wakes up the sauce.
Pasta (penne or fettuccine): The ideal vehicle for soaking up all that creamy, savory goodness.
Fresh basil or parsley: The perfect finishing touch—add color and a fresh, herbal lift.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add your preferred pasta (penne or fettuccine work beautifully with this sauce). Cook the pasta just until al dente, so it keeps a satisfying bite when tossed with the sauce later. Once done, drain and set aside—but don’t forget to reserve a splash of pasta water just in case you need to loosen up your sauce.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Lay the pieces into the pan without crowding and cook for about 5–7 minutes, until they’re golden on both sides and cooked through. Once they’re done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside, keeping all those lovely browned bits in the pan.

Step 3: Flavor the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about a minute. This is where the aroma will fill your kitchen with warmth—don’t let it burn! Next, pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any bits left from the chicken. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat. Let the sauce bubble gently for 3–5 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes irresistibly fragrant.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Add the drained pasta and cooked chicken back into the skillet, tossing everything to coat in that creamy, sun-dried tomato-studded sauce. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes, just until everything is heated through and the pasta has soaked up some of that rich flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove your Marry Me Chicken Pasta from the heat and shower it with plenty of fresh basil or parsley. This pop of green makes the dish feel truly special. Serve it piping hot, family-style or plated up for individual portions—either way, it’s a guaranteed showstopper.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley is more than just for looks—it adds a fragrant, herbaceous lift that balances the creamy sauce. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a bit more grated Parmesan or a twist of cracked black pepper makes every bite extra special.

Side Dishes

To keep things light and balanced, pair your Marry Me Chicken Pasta with a crisp green salad or simple roasted vegetables. Warm, crusty bread is also perfect for sopping up every last bit of sauce, and a glass of chilled white wine elevates the meal into restaurant-worthy territory.

Creative Ways to Present

Try plating the pasta in shallow bowls and stacking the chicken on top for a dramatic touch. For date night, serve it family-style from the skillet in the center of the table, letting everyone dig in together. You can even swirl individual pasta nests on each plate and finish with a flourish of herbs and sun-dried tomatoes for that bistro-inspired look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Marry Me Chicken Pasta (a rare occurrence!), simply transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours. It’ll stay fresh for up to three days, making a decadent lunch or speedy dinner later in the week.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze leftovers for up to two months. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe bags or containers, and squeeze out as much air as possible. Keep in mind that creamy sauces can sometimes change in texture after freezing, but a good stir on reheating usually brings everything back together.

Reheating

For best results, gently reheat Marry Me Chicken Pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works too—just cover loosely and stop to stir every minute until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta with other proteins?

Absolutely! This dish is incredibly flexible—try swapping the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even sautéed mushrooms if you want a hearty vegetarian version. Each one soaks up the creamy sauce in its own delicious way.

Is there a way to lighten up the sauce?

Definitely. Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream to cut down on richness, or use light cream if you prefer. You’ll still get a lovely, velvety sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.

What’s the best pasta shape for Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Penne and fettuccine are my top choices. Penne’s ridges grab bits of chicken and sauce, while fettuccine’s wide ribbons are wonderfully slurpable. Really, any sturdy pasta will work, so use what you love or have on hand.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, baby kale, or even peas stirred in at the end are delicious and add a burst of color and nutrition. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorites.

How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?

Make sure to keep the heat at a low simmer after adding the cream and cheese. Avoid boiling, as that can cause the sauce to separate. Stirring frequently ensures the sauce stays smooth and luxurious.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t tried Marry Me Chicken Pasta yet, you’re in for something truly special. It’s weeknight easy, company-worthy, and so satisfying that it might just earn a permanent spot on your dinner rotation. Give it a go—your next favorite meal is only one skillet away!

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 10 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A creamy and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken strips, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luxurious Parmesan cream sauce. This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a satisfying meal perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

2 tablespoons olive oil
2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Sauce:

3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Additional:

10 ounces pasta (like penne or fettuccine)
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Prepare pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook in olive oil until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Make the sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic, then add chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
Combine and simmer: Add cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes until heated through.
Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving hot.