Name: Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups penne pasta (or pasta of choice); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

There’s something truly magical about a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that brings people together, and Marry Me Chicken Pasta does exactly that. With tender, golden-seared chicken coated in a rich, garlicky parmesan cream sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, every bite is a dreamy combination of comfort and indulgence. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a family dinner, or simply treating yourself, this dish is sure to impress.

I love how effortlessly this recipe comes together while delivering restaurant-quality flavors. The sun-dried tomatoes add a hint of tanginess, while the creamy sauce, infused with garlic, parmesan, and herbs, creates an irresistible depth of flavor. The best part? It all comes together in one pan, making it a stress-free meal with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic makes for an unforgettable taste.
Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet appearance, this dish comes together in under an hour with simple ingredients.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for a romantic dinner, a cozy family meal, or a special gathering, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal dishes mean less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal.
Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe with your favorite pasta, protein, or even a spicy kick.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

The beauty of Marry Me Chicken Pasta is that it pairs well with a variety of pasta shapes. I love using penne or rigatoni because their ridges help trap the creamy sauce, making every bite rich and flavorful. If you prefer a lighter option, spaghetti or fettuccine work wonderfully as well, allowing the sauce to coat each strand evenly. Want to switch it up? Try using bowtie pasta for a fun and elegant presentation. No matter what you choose, make sure to cook it al dente so it holds up well in the creamy sauce.

Options for Substitutions

1. Chicken Substitutes: While chicken breast is the classic choice, boneless chicken thighs offer extra juiciness. If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, mushrooms or tofu make great alternatives.

2. Pasta Variations: Swap regular pasta for whole wheat, gluten-free, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.

3. Dairy-Free Option: Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free parmesan alternative for a creamy yet lactose-free dish.

4. Spice Level: If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.

5. Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If you’re not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes can provide a similar sweet, tangy contrast.

6. Cheese Alternatives: Parmesan is a must for that rich umami flavor, but you can also mix in some pecorino romano or asiago for a different depth of taste.

Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Each ingredient in this dish plays a key role in building layers of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Chicken Breast – Boneless, skinless chicken breast is seared to golden perfection, providing a juicy and tender bite. Chicken thighs can also be used for extra richness.
Pasta – Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work well, helping to hold the creamy sauce and deliver the perfect texture.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic depth and enhances the overall flavor.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes – These add a sweet and tangy contrast to the creamy sauce, balancing out the richness.
Heavy Cream – The key to a luxurious, velvety sauce that coats every bite of pasta.
Chicken Broth – Helps loosen the sauce while adding another layer of savory flavor.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, nutty richness and thickens the sauce beautifully.
Italian Seasoning – A blend of dried basil, oregano, and thyme that infuses the dish with classic Mediterranean flavors.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Brings a subtle heat to balance the creaminess (optional but highly recommended!).
Olive Oil & Butter – Used for searing the chicken and adding richness to the sauce.
Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the overall flavor.
Fresh Parsley or Basil – A fresh herb garnish that brightens the dish and adds a final touch of color and flavor.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to thin out the sauce later.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel, then season both sides with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and butter. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and let it rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

In the same pan, add a bit more butter if needed, then sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute, allowing their flavors to infuse the oil.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Add the grated parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the sliced chicken to the pan, stirring it into the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss until everything is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve immediately with extra parmesan cheese on top for an extra indulgent finish.

How Long to Cook Marry Me Chicken Pasta

The total cooking time for this dish is around 30-40 minutes, making it a quick yet impressive meal. Here’s a breakdown:

Cooking the pasta – About 10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta used.
Searing the chicken – 8-10 minutes, ensuring a golden brown crust and fully cooked interior.
Making the sauce – 5-7 minutes to develop the creamy, flavorful base.
Combining everything – 2-3 minutes to coat the pasta and allow the flavors to meld.

Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

Fresh garlic, high-quality parmesan, and good olive oil make a noticeable difference in flavor.

2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Cook the pasta al dente so it maintains its structure when mixed with the sauce.

3. Let the Chicken Rest

After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy and prevents dryness.

4. Scrape Up the Flavor Bits

When adding the chicken broth, scrape the browned bits from the pan—this adds incredible depth to the sauce.

5. Adjust the Consistency

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or more broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for another minute.

6. Season at Every Step

Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and seasoning throughout the cooking process to build the perfect balance of flavors.

7. Garnish for Extra Flavor

Fresh herbs and extra parmesan on top make all the difference for a restaurant-quality finish.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Overcooking the Chicken

Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry and tough. Sear it until golden brown and let it rest before slicing to keep it juicy.

2. Skipping the Pasta Water

A little reserved pasta water helps loosen the sauce and makes it cling to the pasta perfectly. Don’t throw it all away!

3. Using Pre-Grated Parmesan

Pre-grated parmesan doesn’t melt as smoothly as freshly grated cheese, which can lead to a grainy sauce. Always use fresh parmesan for the best texture.

4. Not Scraping the Pan

The browned bits left after cooking the chicken hold a ton of flavor—deglazing the pan with broth ensures they get incorporated into the sauce.

5. Adding Cream Too Quickly

If the heat is too high when adding cream, it can curdle. Lower the heat and stir continuously for a silky-smooth sauce.

6. Forgetting to Taste and Adjust

Seasoning should be adjusted throughout cooking. Taste before serving to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.

7. Cooking the Pasta Too Early

If pasta sits too long before being mixed with the sauce, it can become sticky. Time it so it’s freshly drained when ready to combine.

8. Overloading with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

They add amazing flavor, but too many can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended amount for balance.

What to Serve With Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

1. Garlic Bread

A crispy, buttery slice of garlic bread is the perfect side to soak up the creamy sauce.

2. Side Salad

A light arugula or Caesar salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts provide a tasty contrast in texture.

4. Sautéed Spinach

A simple side of garlic sautéed spinach adds a pop of green and complements the creamy pasta beautifully.

5. Bruschetta

A fresh tomato bruschetta served on toasted baguette slices is a great appetizer to start your meal.

6. Wine Pairing

A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the creamy and garlicky flavors of the pasta.

7. Grilled Shrimp

For an extra protein boost, serve some lemon-garlic grilled shrimp on the side.

8. Antipasto Platter

A small platter of olives, cheeses, and cured meats makes a great starter before indulging in this rich pasta dish.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, Marry Me Chicken Pasta stores well and can be enjoyed later! Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: The creamy sauce can separate when frozen, but if you must, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Instructions

Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, and add a little liquid if needed to keep the sauce smooth.
Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 300°F for about 15 minutes until heated through.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

While nutrition can vary based on portion sizes and ingredients used, here’s an estimate per serving:

Calories: ~650 kcal
Protein: ~40g
Carbohydrates: ~50g
Fats: ~35g
Saturated Fat: ~18g
Cholesterol: ~120mg
Sodium: ~700mg
Fiber: ~3g
Sugar: ~5g

This is a rich and indulgent dish, but you can make it lighter by using less cream or swapping for a lower-fat alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and add even more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as they take a bit longer to cook through.

2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be as rich. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream works well.

3. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give it some heat.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best texture, store the sauce and pasta separately and combine when reheating.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers make great additions without overpowering the flavors.

6. What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?

Penne and rigatoni are great choices because they hold the sauce well, but fettuccine and spaghetti also work beautifully.

7. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, if you have leftover rotisserie chicken, just shred it and add it to the sauce at the end to heat through.

8. How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of reserved pasta water, broth, or cream while stirring over low heat.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors that will impress anyone who tries it. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this dish is a guaranteed hit. Save this recipe on Pinterest, share it with your family and friends, and enjoy every delicious bite!