In the midst of a chaotic week, I found myself longing for a meal that would wrap me in warmth, yet impress my taste buds and my dinner guests. Enter Marry Me Chicken Pasta—a creamy, flavorful dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough to steal the show during a romantic dinner. With tender chicken bathed in a luxurious, velvety sauce accented by sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, this recipe checks all the boxes for comfort food. Not only is it quick to whip up, but it also guarantees to leave your loved ones swooning. Are you ready to dive into this creamy culinary romance? Let’s get started!
Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try?
Comforting and indulgent: Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the ultimate cozy dish that wraps you in warmth with every bite.
Quick preparation: This recipe is an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
Impressive flavors: The blend of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and sun-dried tomatoes makes it irresistible — perfect for date nights or celebrations.
Versatile options: Feel free to experiment with different proteins or add vegetables like spinach for added nutrition.
Crowd-pleaser: It’s a dish that will leave your loved ones not only satisfied but also romanticized by its deliciousness! Enjoy it alongside a fresh green salad or garlic bread for the full experience.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – Main protein source; ensure they are patted dry for better searing.
- Salt and Pepper – Seasoning essentials to elevate the overall flavor.
For the Sauce
- Olive Oil – Good for searing the chicken, promoting browning and flavor.
- Garlic – Aromatic flavor backbone, minced for even distribution.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Adds a delightful tangy sweetness; chop for easy incorporation.
- Chicken Broth – Provides moisture to the sauce; can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- Heavy Cream – Creates the luxurious and creamy sauce; feel free to use half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Parmesan Cheese – Deepens the cheesy flavor; fresh grated is preferred for melting.
- Italian Seasoning – Herbal flavor mix, essential for seasoning the sauce.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for a hint of heat; adjust to taste.
For the Pasta
- Pasta (Penne, Rigatoni, or Fettuccine) – Choose a shape that holds sauce well; enhances the Marry Me Chicken Pasta experience.
For Garnish
- Fresh Basil – Adds freshness and visual appeal; makes your dish radiant!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Prepare & Sear Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry and seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken and sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate to rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Cook Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add your choice of pasta, such as penne or fettuccine. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Before draining, remember to reserve 1 cup of pasta water to help adjust the sauce later. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Build Sauce Base
Using the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add a splash more olive oil if needed, and turn the heat to medium. Sauté 3-4 minced garlic cloves and ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, allowing it to simmer for 3-5 minutes to blend the flavors and slightly reduce.
Step 4: Create Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low and gently stir in 1 cup of heavy cream along with 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning and optional red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for another 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until it begins to thicken. Stir in ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into a silky, creamy sauce, creating the heart of your Marry Me Chicken Pasta.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Add the sliced chicken and cooked pasta into the creamy sauce, tossing everything together to ensure the chicken and pasta are well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Serve your Marry Me Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for that perfect finishing touch.
Expert Tips for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
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Perfectly Pat Dry: Ensure you pat the chicken breasts dry before seasoning to achieve a beautifully seared crust, avoiding any steaming.
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Season as You Go: Don't skip tasting your sauce during cooking; adjusting the seasonings can elevate your Marry Me Chicken Pasta to new heights of flavor.
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Heat Control: Use a heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven for uniform heat distribution. This helps prevent scorching and ensures even cooking of the creamy sauce.
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Pasta Water Magic: Remember to reserve some pasta water! It’s a magical tool to adjust the thickness of your sauce without losing flavor.
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Ingredient Quality: Opt for fresh ingredients, especially when it comes to Parmesan cheese, as it significantly enhances the richness of the sauce for your Marry Me Chicken Pasta.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this dish to suit your taste buds!
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Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed spinach or asparagus for a healthy, colorful option that elevates the dish with freshness. They pair beautifully with the creamy sauce!
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Seafood Switch: Replace chicken with shrimp for a light and flavorful twist. Just cook the shrimp until pink and tender for a delicious alternative.
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Hearty Sausage: Try crumbled Italian sausage instead of chicken for a hearty, savory option. The richness of the sausage will add another layer of flavor.
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Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a creamy, dairy-free variant that's equally satisfying.
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Pasta Perfection: Experiment with different pasta shapes like orecchiette or fusilli. Their unique forms will hold the sauce differently, giving you a delightful twist on texture.
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Flavor Adventure: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra depth of flavor. It brings a lovely acidity that balances the richness perfectly.
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Heat Things Up: Include fresh sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an exciting spicy kick that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
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Herbal Twist: Substitute fresh basil with fresh parsley or find some fresh oregano for a different herbaceous note that keeps things vibrant and refreshing!
Let your Marry Me Chicken Pasta transform into new favorites and keep your dining experience lively and exciting! For additional veggie inspiration, consider adding roasted vegetables or even a side of garlic bread for the complete comfort food experience!
Storage Tips for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Refrigerating helps maintain the creamy texture of the sauce for later enjoyment.
Freezer: To extend the life of your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the creamy sauce and prevent it from drying out.
Serving Suggestions: Consider serving with crusty garlic bread or a fresh side salad after reheating for a delightful meal that feels just made.
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Pairing this creamy delight with complementary dishes will create a memorable meal experience for you and your loved ones.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, crunchy texture of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce, enhancing every bite of your pasta.
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Simple Green Salad: Crisp greens with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast, balancing the creamy richness of the Marry Me Chicken Pasta beautifully.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized, roasted veggies like asparagus or zucchini add an earthy touch that rounds out the meal with wholesome goodness.
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Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft, gooey breadsticks dressed with melted cheese make for a comforting side, adding a cheesy twist to your dining experience.
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Lemonade or White Wine: A cold glass of homemade lemonade or a chilled white wine cuts through the creaminess, enhancing flavors and setting a perfect tone for your meal.
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Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with a rich chocolate mousse; the decadence of the dessert will leave your guests swooning, making the meal unforgettable.
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Sautéed Spinach: A healthy, sautéed spinach tossed with garlic brings a vibrant, fresh element that beautifully complements the savory pasta dish's creaminess.
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Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized delights provide a delightful texture contrast, packed with flavor, making them an irresistible starter to pair with your main course.
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Chicken Pasta are perfect for meal prep and make weeknight dinners a breeze! You can season and sear the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it after cooling. Additionally, you can chop the sun-dried tomatoes and mince the garlic ahead of time to save even more effort. When you're ready to enjoy this creamy dish, just sauté the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, add the broth and cream, and then incorporate the pre-cooked chicken and pasta. This method ensures your meal is just as delicious, while also saving you precious time during a busy week!
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken breasts, look for ones that are plump, with a pink hue and no dark spots. Opt for free-range or organic options when possible, as they tend to be more flavorful. Always pat the chicken dry before searing to achieve that delicious golden crust.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
You can store your Marry Me Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing it up. This will help to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce and prevent it from drying out too much.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Very! To freeze the dish, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help restore the creaminess.
What if my sauce is too thick?
No worries! If you find your creamy sauce is a bit too thick after combining with the pasta, gradually stir in some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. This adds moisture without compromising flavor, so feel free to adjust as needed!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you have guests who are lactose intolerant or vegan, consider using non-dairy alternatives such as coconut cream in place of heavy cream and a dairy-free cheese option instead of Parmesan. Always be cautious of sun-dried tomatoes if anyone has tomato allergies—opt for cooked carrots or sautéed bell peppers as an alternative for a sweet-tart flavor without allergens.
How can I enhance this dish with additional ingredients?
I often add sautéed vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or mushrooms to the mix, which not only boosts the nutrition but also adds wonderful textures and flavors. Experimenting with proteins like shrimp or crumbled Italian sausage can also create delightful variations to your Marry Me Chicken Pasta!
Irresistibly Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by patting your chicken breasts dry and seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken and sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate to rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add your choice of pasta, such as penne or fettuccine. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Before draining, remember to reserve 1 cup of pasta water. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Using the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add a splash more olive oil if needed, and turn the heat to medium. Sauté the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, allowing it to simmer for 3-5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and gently stir in the heavy cream along with Italian seasoning and optional red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for another 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts.
- Add the sliced chicken and cooked pasta into the creamy sauce, tossing to ensure everything is well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until your desired consistency. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.
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