Marry Me Chicken Pasta

by
Print Recipe

Introduction

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken, a rich and creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for a meal that’s both indulgent and irresistible. The name says it all—this recipe is so delicious it could win hearts and inspire proposals! Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving something extra comforting, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a surefire way to impress.

The first time I made this dish, I was amazed at how quickly it came together while still feeling so luxurious. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic, Parmesan, and the subtle tang of sun-dried tomatoes, coated every strand of pasta and bite of chicken perfectly. It was love at first taste, and my family couldn’t stop raving about it.

What I love most about Marry Me Chicken Pasta is how versatile it is. You can swap the chicken for shrimp or make it vegetarian by adding sautéed mushrooms and spinach. Pair it with a crisp side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal, or enjoy it on its own as a satisfying indulgence. No matter the occasion, this dish is a heartfelt way to show your love—one delicious bite at a time.

Perfect for:

  • Date nights
  • Family dinners
  • Special occasions
  • Celebrating milestones
  • Pasta lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Marry Me Chicken Pasta will become a staple in your kitchen:

  • Rich and Creamy Sauce: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan creates a velvety, flavorful sauce that’s simply irresistible.
  • Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet appearance, this dish comes together quickly and is beginner-friendly.
  • Versatile Ingredients: You can customize it with different pasta shapes or add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition.
  • Perfect for Entertaining: The elegant presentation and rich flavors make this dish ideal for impressing guests.
  • Comforting and Satisfying: This recipe combines hearty pasta and tender chicken for a meal that feels indulgent and satisfying.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 600-700 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 35g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Marry Me Chicken Pasta:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small breasts)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Adds a tangy, slightly sweet flavor to balance the creamy sauce.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a rich, luxurious base for the sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Enhances the dish with its nutty, salty flavor.
  • Garlic and Herbs: Infuse the sauce with layers of aromatic flavor.
  • Pasta: Choose your favorite shape, but fettuccine or penne work especially well for holding the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Chicken:

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce:

  1. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
  2. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Create the Cream Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Cook the Pasta:

  1. Boil the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Combine and Serve:

  1. Add Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over it. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve

  • Classic Family-Style: Serve the pasta in a large, shallow bowl, topped with the creamy chicken and garnished with fresh basil or parsley. Place it at the center of the table for everyone to help themselves.
  • Individual Plates: Twirl the pasta into neat nests on individual plates, then top each portion with chicken and sauce. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper.
  • In a Bread Bowl: Hollow out crusty bread rolls or loaves and fill them with the creamy chicken pasta for an edible and rustic presentation.
  • With a Side Salad: Pair the dish with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
  • Baked Pasta Dish: Transfer the prepared dish into a casserole, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan, and bake until bubbly and golden. Serve hot and gooey.
  • Over Zoodles: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles for a low-carb option while keeping all the creamy, flavorful goodness.
  • Served with Garlic Bread: Add a side of warm, buttery garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce, making it a full Italian-inspired meal.
  • Topped with Extra Veggies: Add steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes on top for added texture and nutrition.
  • In a Fancy Bowl: For a special occasion, serve the dish in elegant white bowls with garnishes like microgreens or edible flowers for an upscale touch.
  • As a One-Pot Meal: Keep it casual by serving the dish straight from the skillet or pot it was cooked in, making it easy for everyone to scoop their own servings.

Additional Tips

  • Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To keep the chicken tender, cook just until it reaches 165°F.
  • Save Pasta Water: Reserved pasta water can help thin the sauce and make it cling to the pasta.
  • Use High-Quality Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan will provide the best flavor.
  • Customize the Heat: Add more red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or omit them for a milder dish.
  • Prep Ahead: Chop the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes before starting to save time during cooking.

Recipe Variations

  1. Shrimp Marry Me Pasta: Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
  2. Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
  3. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for gluten sensitivities.
  4. Spinach Marry Me Pasta: Add fresh spinach to the sauce for extra nutrients and color.
  5. Spicy Marry Me Pasta: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier dish.
  6. Low-Carb Version: Serve the sauce over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
  7. Bacon Marry Me Pasta: Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
  8. Tomato-Basil Version: Add fresh cherry tomatoes and basil for a lighter, summery taste.
  9. Cheesy Marry Me Pasta: Mix in mozzarella cheese for an extra cheesy sauce.
  10. Creamy Pesto Variation: Stir in a dollop of pesto for an herbaceous twist.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Freeze the sauce (without the pasta) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Special Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Pot for Boiling Pasta
  • Tongs (for tossing pasta)
  • Meat Thermometer (optional, for checking chicken doneness)
  • Cheese Grater (for Parmesan)

FAQ

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work well in this recipe.
  2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? The sauce can be made ahead and reheated, but cook the pasta fresh for the best texture.
  3. What’s a good substitute for heavy cream? Half-and-half or coconut cream can be used, but the sauce will be slightly less rich.
  4. Can I make this dairy-free? Use a dairy-free cream alternative and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
  5. What’s the best pasta for this dish? Fettuccine, penne, or linguine are all great options.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect blend of indulgence and simplicity. Featuring tender, juicy chicken nestled in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, this dish delivers comfort and elegance in every bite. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

The rich, flavorful sauce, balanced with hints of garlic and Parmesan, pairs beautifully with your favorite pasta shape, making it as versatile as it is delicious. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s destined to become a staple in your recipe collection.

I’d love to see your take on Marry Me Chicken Pasta! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram to share your creation. Don’t forget to comment with your personal twists or serving ideas. Happy cooking!

Leave a Comment