First off, let me say how truly grateful I am that you’re here, sharing your love for good food and cozy, homemade dishes with me. Every time I get to bring you a new recipe, it feels like I’m passing along a cherished secret from my kitchen to yours—and today’s is extra special. Whether you’re cooking for someone you love or just treating yourself (because you deserve it!), this Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a showstopper.
Now, before we dive into creamy sauce and tender chicken, don’t forget to subscribe to receive this recipe—and many more—straight to your inbox. I promise to keep them delicious and fuss-free!
What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
You’ve probably heard whispers about “Marry Me Chicken,” a dish so good it could inspire a proposal on the spot! Well, imagine that beloved creamy, sun-dried tomato chicken served over perfectly cooked pasta, soaking up all those luxurious flavors. That’s what we’re making today!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Oh, where do I start? This recipe is:
- Ultra-creamy and loaded with flavor from garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan.
- Comforting yet elegant, perfect for a date night or a cozy family dinner.
- One-pan friendly (well, two if you count the pasta pot!), so cleanup is a breeze.
- Versatile! Pair it with your favorite pasta or even swap the chicken for shrimp.
Honestly, the first time I made this, I almost didn’t share it with anyone—I just wanted to eat it straight out of the pan!
How Does Marry Me Chicken Pasta Taste?
Think of a velvety, savory cream sauce kissed by the tang of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a hint of red pepper flakes. The chicken is seared until golden and juicy, and when it all comes together with al dente pasta and a snowfall of parmesan—WOW. It’s rich but not heavy, deeply comforting, and yes… romantic!
Benefits of Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Simple but sophisticated: Impressive enough for guests, easy enough for weeknights.
- Meal-prep friendly: This reheats like a dream!
- Customizable: Make it your own with extra veggies or protein swaps.
- Crowd-pleaser: Even picky eaters can’t resist this one!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite)
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Tongs or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Cheese grater (if using fresh parmesan)
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Want to play around? Here are some ideas:
- Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for a veggie boost.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Craving seafood? Shrimp is an incredible substitute!
- No sun-dried tomatoes? Roasted red peppers will still give you that sweet, tangy kick.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked (about 6-7 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits (hello, flavor!). Stir in the heavy cream, parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes. Simmer gently until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Slice the chicken and return it to the sauce. Toss in the cooked pasta until well coated. Garnish with fresh basil and more parmesan, if desired.
The smell when this is in the pan is incredible!!
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta
I love pairing this with:
- A crisp, lemony arugula salad.
- Garlic bread or crusty sourdough.
- A chilled glass of sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing chicken—you want that gorgeous golden crust!
- Reserve a bit of pasta water; it helps loosen the sauce if needed.
- Taste as you go! Adjust seasoning depending on the saltiness of your broth and parmesan.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce. Trust me, it’s still dreamy the next day.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the chicken and sauce ahead, then just boil fresh pasta and toss together when ready to serve.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
I’d recommend freezing just the chicken and sauce (without pasta) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat, then add fresh pasta!
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can swap the heavy cream for coconut cream and use a dairy-free parmesan alternative. It won’t be exactly the same, but still delicious!
The Bottom Line
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the kind of recipe you’ll want to tuck into your back pocket forever. It’s easy, comforting, and downright irresistible. Whether you’re wooing someone special or just making a Tuesday night feel a little more magical, this dish delivers every time.
✨ Want more like this? Check out my other perfect dishes like Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken or Crispy Asian Chicken Wonton Tacos
💌 Tried this recipe? Leave a review below or tag me on Pinterest—I’d love to see your creations! 💕
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~620 kcal
- Protein: 32g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g