Looking for the kind of dish that makes everyone who tries it swoon with delight? Meet your new weeknight favorite: the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. Named for its irresistibly creamy, savory sauce and tender bites of chicken, this recipe has spread across kitchens and social feeds for good reason—it’s a plateful of pure comfort! Whether you’re cooking for date night, a family dinner, or simply want to treat yourself, Marry Me Chicken Pasta delivers flavor and ease every single time.
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is a delightful blend of golden-seared chicken, dreamy cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and just the right hint of heat from red pepper flakes. Add a handful of Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh basil, and you’ve got a restaurant-worthy meal in about 30 minutes. It’s no wonder why this recipe has sparked so many happy proposals, or at least, enthusiastic seconds!
Pasta lovers and chicken aficionados alike adore how this dish brings together familiar ingredients in a truly showstopping way. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, the straightforward steps in this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe ensure success with every batch. The ingredients are easy to find, the instructions are beginner-friendly, and the flavor is truly unforgettable. With rave reviews from across the internet and so many home cooks calling it a “keeper,” you’ll want to bookmark this one for regular rotation.
Ready to fall in love at first bite? Let’s dive into the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe and discover why it’s got such a romantic reputation!
Why You’ll Love Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
There’s absolutely no shortage of reasons to fall head-over-heels for the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. First and foremost, it’s the ultimate comfort food—think tender chicken nestled in a cream-laced sauce that hugs every strand of pasta. The tang of sun-dried tomatoes, the bold notes of Italian seasoning, and the deep umami of Parmesan cheese make every bite burst with balanced flavor.
One of the most appealing aspects of the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is its simplicity. With just a single skillet and a pot for the pasta, you’ll have minimal cleanup to worry about. The instructions are clear, and the results are dependable—no fancy techniques, just honest, delicious cooking. Even if you’re new to making creamy pasta dishes, you’ll be amazed at how quickly this luxurious sauce comes together.
This recipe is also incredibly adaptable. It works with any pasta shape, so you can use what you have on hand. Short on time? The preparation and cooking can be finished in under 40 minutes, start to finish! Serving a crowd? The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe scales up beautifully. And, if you’re looking to impress someone special—well, the name says it all! With rave-worthy flavor, a rich, creamy texture, and gorgeous presentation, there’s every reason to make this your go-to pasta recipe.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
To get the most out of your Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe, start with fresh, quality ingredients. Each component plays a critical role in building layers of flavor and ensuring that signature creamy consistency. Here’s what you’ll need for the perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta:
- 8 oz dried pasta of your choice (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work wonders)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing and richer flavor)
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped (adds sweetness and depth)
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced (for fragrant aromatics)
- 1 tablespoon butter (to enrich the chicken and sauce)
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces (lean protein and perfect texture)
- ½ teaspoon each of the following:
- Italian seasoning (classic herb flavor)
- Smoked paprika (subtle smokiness)
- Red pepper flakes (touch of heat)
- Garlic powder (layered garlic taste)
- Salt (to enhance all the flavors)
- Pepper (for mild heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream (ultra creamy sauce base)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (adds nutty, salty depth)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (tart, sweet, and chewy bites)
- Basil leaves, for garnish (fresh herbal aroma and gorgeous color)
These ingredients are easy to find in any grocery store and are the secret to transforming a simple weeknight dinner into something memorable. If you want to make the dish your own, don’t be afraid to swap in a favorite pasta, substitute a different cheese, or experiment with herbs.
Necessary Tools
Before you begin cooking the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe, take a moment to gather your kitchen tools. Having everything within reach streamlines the process and makes preparation a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large pot: For boiling pasta. A sturdy, nonstick option helps prevent sticking.
- Large skillet or sauté pan: Essential for simmering the sauce, browning the chicken, and pulling everything together in one pan.
- Sharp chef’s knife: For chopping veggies, sun-dried tomatoes, and chicken cleanly.
- Cutting board: Keeps your prep organized and your counters safe.
- Measuring spoons and cups: Accurate measurements ensure balanced flavors.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Prevents scratching your skillet and is perfect for stirring creamy sauces.
- Colander: For draining cooked pasta efficiently.
- Grater or microplane: Handy for freshly grating Parmesan cheese for ultimate flavor and texture.
- Tongs: Makes tossing pasta and handling chicken pieces easier and cleaner.
- Serving platter or large bowl: For a stunning tableside presentation.
Having these basic tools on hand will make crafting this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe smooth and enjoyable, leaving you more time to savor your delicious results.
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
One of the magical features of the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is its versatility. If you’re looking to adjust the recipe for dietary needs, use up pantry finds, or simply explore new flavors, this dish is wonderfully forgiving. Here are some ideas for ingredient additions and smart substitutions:
Pasta Choices: The recipe calls for 8 ounces of your favorite dried pasta. While penne, rigatoni, and fettuccine are all great, feel free to swap in something gluten-free (like chickpea or lentil pasta) if you’re avoiding wheat. Whole wheat pasta can add extra fiber and a nuttier flavor, while egg noodles make for a softer, silkier dish. If you’re looking to lower carbs, try spiralized zucchini or hearts of palm noodles as a base.
Chicken Alternatives: While chicken breasts are lean and take on the sauce beautifully, you can absolutely substitute thigh meat for additional richness and tenderness. If you’d rather go meatless, sautéed mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or even crispy tofu cubes work well in place of chicken. For pescatarians, shrimp is a fabulous and fast alternative—just add in the last few minutes to avoid overcooking.
Dairy-free Adjustments: To make the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe dairy-free, swap heavy cream for unsweetened coconut cream or full-fat oat milk. Use a tablespoon of nutritional yeast plus a little extra salt in place of Parmesan. There are now excellent dairy-free Parmesan alternatives for a classic touch without compromise.
Vegetable Additions: Bulk up the dish and add even more color by including sliced bell peppers, baby spinach, arugula, or peas. Toss these in during the last few minutes of cooking until just wilted or warmed through.
Flavor Boosts: Craving a little extra zip? Add chopped roasted red peppers, a tablespoon of capers, or a splash of white wine to the sauce as it simmers. For an herbal twist, sprinkle in fresh chopped oregano or thyme along with the basil.
Cheese Options: If you’re out of Parmesan, try grated Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a touch of cream cheese for added velvetiness. Just be mindful of the salt content, as some cheeses are more intense than others.
Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your preferred heat level. Paprika can be sweet or hot, so choose whichever variety you have on hand.
Sun-dried Tomato Swaps: If sun-dried tomatoes aren’t available, oven-roasted cherry tomatoes or a small amount of tomato paste can give you a similar tangy-sweet flavor. Oven-dried tomatoes offer a nice chewy bite and robust flavor.
With these suggestions, the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe can be tailored for any palate or pantry, making it a truly reliable and customizable weeknight wonder!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is a symphony of savory, creamy, and slightly tangy flavors, all coming together in a single skillet for easy cleanup. By layering seasonings and building a rich sauce, you’ll craft a restaurant-style meal in less than an hour. Here’s how to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta, step by simple step.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving up to ½ cup of pasta water in case you want to adjust the sauce’s thickness later.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it’s soft and just beginning to turn golden. Stir in the minced garlic and cook another 30 seconds—the kitchen should smell amazing at this point.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the butter to your skillet, allowing it to melt before adding the bite-sized chicken breast pieces. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté the chicken until all sides are golden brown and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even browning.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat slightly and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to pick up any browned bits from the pan (these add flavor!). Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, whisking to melt it smoothly into the sauce. Let everything simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking.
Step 5: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Pasta
Fold in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, giving the sauce a beautiful burst of color and flavor. Return the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat every strand with creamy, cheesy goodness. If the sauce seems too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water will loosen things up perfectly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and scatter fresh basil leaves over the top for a pop of herbal freshness and vibrant green color. Transfer to a serving platter or individual bowls and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is bold enough to shine solo, but it also plays well with a few simple accompaniments. For an easy weeknight dinner, pair your pasta with a crisp green salad—think arugula or baby spinach tossed with a lemony vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of warm, crusty bread or garlic knots is perfect for sopping up every drop of that creamy sauce.
Looking to make it a more elaborate meal? Serve the pasta alongside roasted or steamed seasonal veggies, like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans. If you prefer wine, a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or full-bodied Chardonnay matches the creamy, savory notes wonderfully.
Finally, sprinkle a bit more Parmesan and a few extra torn basil leaves over each bowl just before serving for a picture-perfect finish. Whether plated elegantly for a dinner party or scooped straight from the skillet for family lunch, this dish adapts to any occasion.
Pro Tips & Tricks
- Let the Chicken Rest: After sautéing, let the chicken sit for a couple of minutes before mixing with the sauce, allowing the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
- Finish Pasta in Sauce: Always toss cooked pasta in the sauce for the last 1-2 minutes. This ensures every bite is coated and allows the sauce to infuse the noodles.
- Reserve Some Pasta Water: Pasta water contains starch that helps create a silkier, more luxurious sauce. Add it gradually until you reach your ideal consistency.
- Fresh Is Best: Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded for smoother melting and a punchier flavor.
- Sun-dried Tomatoes: If your sun-dried tomatoes are dry-packed, soak them in hot water for 5-10 minutes before chopping to soften and reinvigorate their flavor.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the red pepper flakes to match your spice preference—use more for a fiery kick or skip entirely for milder palates.
- One-Pan Wonder: For even easier clean-up, after draining the pasta, use the same pot or skillet to bring the sauce and pasta together.
- Ideal Leftovers: If you plan to save leftovers, reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s silkiness.
With these pro tips, you’re guaranteed a gorgeous, delicious Marry Me Chicken Pasta every time!
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers (though it’s rare with the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe!), proper storage is key to maintaining flavor and texture. Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, place the pasta in a saucepan over medium-low heat and add a tablespoon or two of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently until heated through, being careful not to overcook the chicken. The pasta won’t freeze as well due to the cream sauce, which can separate when thawed, but it’s perfect for a next-day lunch or quick dinner.
General Information
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe draws inspiration from classic Italian-American creamy chicken pastas, with a twist thanks to the irresistible combo of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan. Despite its romantic nickname, this dish doesn’t require any special skills—just a love for good food!
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Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful pasta dish featuring seasoned, sautéed chicken cooked with onions and garlic, coated in a rich Parmesan cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes. The cooked pasta is tossed in this velvety sauce and topped with fresh basil, making for an inviting and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 8 oz dried pasta of choice
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tablespoon butter
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- Basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Add butter and chicken, season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, simmer until sauce thickens.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and cooked pasta, toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish with basil leaves and serve immediately.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, use a non-dairy cream and vegan Parmesan. Boneless thighs can replace chicken breasts for extra juiciness. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water. For added veggies, stir in baby spinach with the pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 140mg