If you’re hunting for a dish that’s comfort food elevated to swoon-worthy status, let me introduce you to the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. This creamy, dreamy pasta combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious Parmesan-infused sauce, delivering a flavor so rich and satisfying that it just might inspire a culinary proposal in your kitchen! It’s the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and indulgent, and it’s surprisingly easy to whip up any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may look simple, but each one plays a starring role in building the depth and richness that make this dish unforgettable. From the juicy chicken breasts to the decadent heavy cream and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, every element adds its own magic to the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender and versatile, they soak up the seasoning and sauce perfectly.
- Olive oil: Provides a smooth, fruity base for sautéing the chicken.
- Butter: Adds a silky richness that enhances every bite.
- Garlic powder: Gives a subtle, savory depth to the chicken seasoning.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings Italian flavors straight to your plate.
- Paprika: Adds a hint of smoky warmth and beautiful color.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing and amplifying all flavors.
- Minced garlic: Fresh and aromatic, it awakens the sauce with robust flavor.
- Chicken broth: Adds a gentle savory foundation for the sauce without overpowering it.
- Heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety texture that coats every strand of pasta.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses salty, nutty richness straight into the sauce.
- Sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained): Bring tangy bursts of umami and vibrant color.
- Pasta (penne or fettuccine recommended): Provides the perfect canvas for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish and a pop of green.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta—penne or fettuccine work beautifully—and cook it until just al dente, meaning it still has a slight bite. This texture is ideal because it will soak up the creamy sauce without turning mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
Grab your chicken breasts and sprinkle on the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. This combination infuses the chicken with layers of flavor before it even hits the pan. Heat the olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat. When the butter has melted and the oil is shimmering, add the chicken. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, allowing a golden crust to form and the chicken to cook through. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside—don’t forget those delicious browned bits in the skillet!
Step 3: Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant but not burnt. Pour in the chicken broth, gently scraping the skillet’s bottom to lift off those flavorful browned bits left from cooking the chicken—this is where the depth of flavor happens! Next, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Finally, fold in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and let everything simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens just enough to coat your spoon luxuriously.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Slice the cooked chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces and return it to the sauce. Add the drained pasta right into the skillet as well and toss everything together so each pasta piece is coated in that silky, creamy tomato sauce. Let it simmer gently for another minute or two to marry the flavors beautifully, then remove from heat.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add a bright and fresh contrast to the richness of the sauce. Sprinkle them liberally on top just before serving for a gorgeous color pop and a hint of herbal freshness that truly elevates the dish.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs brilliantly with classic garlic bread to soak up any remaining sauce or a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the creamy, indulgent flavors with some refreshing crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a restaurant-quality presentation, try plating the pasta in a shallow bowl, arranging the chicken slices artfully on top, and garnishing with extra sun-dried tomatoes and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan. Alternatively, serve it family-style in a large cast-iron skillet right at the table so everyone can scoop their portions directly—it’s warm, inviting, and perfect for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which might be rare, given how addictive this dish is), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce might thicken as it chills; just add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to loosen it up.
Freezing
While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
To bring your Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe back to life, warm it slowly over low-medium heat on the stove, stirring frequently. Add a little chicken broth, cream, or even water if the sauce feels too thick. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can cause the cream sauce to separate.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative—they’re juicier and have more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicy?
Yes! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce will introduce a pleasant, gentle heat that complements the creamy sauce without overwhelming it.
Can I swap the heavy cream for a lighter option?
You can try half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind that the sauce won’t be as thick or rich. To thicken lighter options, you might add a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with water during the sauce’s cooking stage.
What pasta type works best with this recipe?
Penne and fettuccine are classic choices because their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully, but feel free to experiment with rigatoni, linguine, or even spaghetti based on your preference.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes add wonderful texture and flavor. Add them during the sauce-simmering step for the best results.
Final Thoughts
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe truly is one of those dishes that brings everyone to the table with a smile. Its creamy, flavorful sauce and tender chicken combine to create a meal that feels special yet easy enough for any weeknight. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—once you do, it might just become your go-to for those times you want something both comforting and a little bit romantic.
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Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting one-pan meal featuring tender seasoned chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection and tossed with pasta in a rich sauce made from heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. This delicious American main course comes together quickly on the stovetop, making it perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that tastes indulgent and impressive.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained)
Pasta and Garnish
- 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Season the chicken: While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Simmer the sauce for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine chicken and pasta: Slice the cooked chicken breasts and return them to the skillet with the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. Simmer for 1 to 2 minutes to warm through.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the dish if desired, then serve the Marry Me Chicken Pasta hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts for more juiciness.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
- Stir in fresh spinach during the last simmering step for extra greens.
- This dish pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
