Marry Me Chicken Pasta

A rich, creamy, and irresistibly flavorful dish, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a meal that’s guaranteed to impress. With tender pan-seared chicken, a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish blends indulgent textures with bold, comforting flavors. The name suggests that it’s so delicious, it might just inspire a marriage proposal!

This recipe is a fantastic option for both casual family dinners and romantic date nights. It combines simple, easy-to-find ingredients with an elevated, restaurant-quality taste. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic, Parmesan, and a touch of spice, coats every bite of pasta, making each forkful more satisfying than the last.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal to share with loved ones or a dish that feels fancy without requiring hours in the kitchen, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect choice. Its combination of richness, spice, and fresh herbs makes it a meal that’s bound to become a regular in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

1. Luxuriously Creamy and Flavorful

The sun-dried tomato cream sauce is velvety, rich, and packed with bold flavors. Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and garlic blend together beautifully, creating a sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta.

2. A Romantic and Impressive Dish

The name “Marry Me Chicken” isn’t just for show—this dish is elegant and indulgent enough for a special occasion, making it a fantastic choice for anniversaries, date nights, or dinner parties.

3. Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients

Despite its sophisticated taste, this recipe uses easy-to-find ingredients and comes together in under an hour. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to create this show-stopping dish!

4. Customizable and Versatile

Swap the pasta type, adjust the spice level, or add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to tailor this dish to your preferences. It’s easily adaptable for different dietary needs.

5. Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing

While it’s perfect for a romantic meal, this dish is also a hit with families. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and comforting pasta make it appealing to both kids and adults.

Preparation Time and Yield

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Serving Size: 1 plate of pasta with chicken

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: ~620
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 32g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 5g

Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Prepare the Chicken:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small ones)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Pasta:

12 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni work well)
½ cup reserved pasta water (optional, to thin the sauce if needed)

The Garnish:

Fresh basil, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese for sprinkling

Step-by-Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

1. Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
Season both sides with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
Remove from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board while you prepare the sauce.

3. Cook the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.

4. Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant.
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 1 minute.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine.
Add the Parmesan cheese, paprika, salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Slice the Chicken and Combine

Slice the rested chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

6. Serve and Garnish

Plate the pasta and top with sliced chicken.
Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.

Ingredient Background

Chicken

Chicken breasts provide lean, protein-rich meat that absorbs the flavors of the creamy sauce beautifully. You can also use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes

These add a slightly tangy, sweet, and umami-rich depth to the dish, balancing out the creamy sauce with bold flavor.

Heavy Cream

This creates the luxurious, velvety texture that makes this dish indulgent.

Parmesan Cheese

A key ingredient that enhances the creaminess of the sauce while adding a salty, nutty depth.

Red Pepper Flakes

These add a mild kick of heat, elevating the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.

Technique Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta

1. Pound the Chicken for Even Cooking

If your chicken breasts are thick on one end, use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly without drying out.

2. Let the Chicken Rest Before Slicing

Allow the cooked chicken to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

3. Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Cook the pasta just until al dente (slightly firm to the bite). The pasta will continue absorbing the sauce once combined, preventing a mushy texture.

4. Control the Sauce Consistency

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or extra chicken broth to loosen it.
If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until it thickens.

5. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan

Pre-grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated cheese creates a silkier, more flavorful sauce.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake

Transfer the cooked pasta and chicken to a baking dish.
Top with extra Parmesan and shredded mozzarella.
Broil for 3-5 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly for a baked, cheesy twist.

2. Low-Carb Version

Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash for a lighter, low-carb meal.

3. Spicy Cajun Variation

Add 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning to the chicken before searing.
Mix in sautéed bell peppers and onions for a Southern-inspired version.

4. Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Risotto

Instead of pasta, serve the creamy chicken over parmesan risotto for an ultra-luxurious meal.

5. Garlic Bread Chicken Pasta Bowls

Hollow out crusty bread bowls and spoon the pasta into them.
The warm bread absorbs the sauce, making for an irresistible combination.

Freezing and Storing Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Storing Leftovers

Refrigeration:

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.

Individual Meal Prep:

Divide the pasta into portioned containers for easy reheatable meals throughout the week.

Freezing Instructions

Cool Completely: Allow the pasta and chicken to cool before freezing to prevent condensation.
Portion & Pack: Store in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
Label & Freeze: Write the date on the container and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Tips

From the Refrigerator:

Skillet: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth, milk, or cream to revive the sauce.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent the sauce from separating.

From Frozen:

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using the methods above.
Oven: Transfer to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.

Healthier Twist Ideas

1. Swap Heavy Cream for Greek Yogurt

Replace heavy cream with plain Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream to reduce calories while keeping the sauce creamy.

2. Use Whole Wheat or Chickpea Pasta

Whole wheat pasta adds extra fiber, while chickpea or lentil pasta provides more protein for a healthier alternative.

3. Lighten the Cheese

Cut back on Parmesan or use a mix of reduced-fat mozzarella and Parmesan to lower fat content while keeping a rich taste.

4. Add More Vegetables

Stir in baby spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted cherry tomatoes to increase fiber and nutrients without sacrificing flavor.

5. Leaner Protein Options

Swap chicken breasts for skinless turkey cutlets or even shrimp for a lighter alternative with high protein.

6. Reduce Sodium

Use low-sodium chicken broth and unsalted butter to control sodium levels while maintaining flavor.

7. Make it Dairy-Free

Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free, creamy alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Events

1. Romantic Date Night Dinner

Pair this dish with garlic butter asparagus and a glass of Chardonnay for a cozy, restaurant-style meal at home.

2. Family Weeknight Meal

Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts or a side salad for a well-rounded dinner that’s kid-friendly and satisfying.

3. Potluck Favorite

Double the recipe and bring it in a large casserole dish for potlucks. Offer a side of crusty bread so guests can soak up the extra sauce.

4. Holiday Gathering Main Course

Make this pasta the centerpiece of a festive meal, serving it with a side of roasted butternut squash and buttery dinner rolls.

5. Elegant Dinner Party

Plate the pasta in shallow bowls, garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan shavings, and serve alongside a charcuterie board as an appetizer.

6. Meal Prep for the Week

Store portions in airtight containers and pair with steamed broccoli or cauliflower rice for balanced, ready-to-go meals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the sauce and chicken in advance, then cook the pasta fresh before serving. Store the sauce separately and reheat gently before mixing.

2. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, fettuccine, or even bowtie pasta work well with this creamy sauce.

3. How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

When reheating, warm the pasta over low heat and stir frequently. Add a splash of broth, cream, or milk to restore the creamy texture.

4. What’s the best way to make this spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, extra black pepper, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.

5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and a cornstarch slurry instead of flour to thicken the sauce.

6. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Freeze the pasta and chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dish that lives up to its name—rich, creamy, and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a romantic dinner, a family meal, or a special gathering, this pasta dish delivers bold flavors and comforting satisfaction in every bite.

Its versatility makes it perfect for customizing with different cheeses, pastas, and proteins, allowing you to adjust it to your preferences while maintaining its signature taste. Plus, with options for healthier modifications and easy make-ahead preparation, it’s a recipe that fits seamlessly into any lifestyle.

Give this Marry Me Chicken Pasta a try, and watch it become a staple in your kitchen—it just might be the dish that wins hearts around the table!