If you’ve ever wanted to wow someone with a dinner that tastes both luxurious and comforting, then Marry Me Chicken Pasta is about to become your new favorite. This creamy, flavor-packed combination of perfectly seared chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a dreamy Parmesan cream sauce all tangled up with pasta is pure magic in a bowl. It’s no wonder people have said this dish is proposal-worthy—it feels special enough for a big occasion, but is joyfully easy to pull together any night you need a pick-me-up.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Marry Me Chicken Pasta is all in the balance of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work some serious culinary magic together. Every element, from the zesty sun-dried tomatoes to the luscious cream, is essential to getting that irresistible flavor, creamy sauce, and inviting color that make this dish so memorable.

Chicken breasts: Using boneless, skinless breasts keeps the dish lean and lets the juicy chicken soak up all the sauce.
Salt: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the overall sauce—don’t be shy here!
Black pepper: Adds a warm kick and rounds out the seasoning on your chicken.
Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that instantly brings a cozy Mediterranean vibe.
Olive oil: Helps get that gorgeous golden crust on your chicken and carries so much flavor into the pan sauce.
Garlic: Just three cloves give the sauce a fragrant, savory base you’ll crave more of.
Chicken broth: Scrapes up all the good browned bits from the pan and adds extra depth to the sauce.
Heavy cream: The hero of decadence here, creating a silky smooth sauce that hugs every noodle.
Parmesan cheese: Brings salty, nutty richness that’s absolutely critical for that signature Marry Me Chicken Pasta flavor.
Sun-dried tomatoes: Little jewels of sweet-tart flavor that pop beautifully against the creamy sauce.
Red pepper flakes (optional): Turn up the heat a touch if you like a playful kick in your creamy pasta.
Pasta (penne or fettuccine): Choose shapes that hold onto the sauce—either are a winner for twirling and scooping up every last bite.
Fresh basil (optional): Brings a fresh, herbal finish, both for garnish and a burst of color right before serving.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Begin by generously seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning—this is where you start building that irresistible flavor. Heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, and as soon as it shimmers, lay the chicken down. Let it sizzle undisturbed for about 5 to 6 minutes per side. You’re looking for a golden, slightly crisp exterior and juicy interior. After cooking, let your chicken rest to keep all those juices locked in, then slice it up into strips or bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Build the Creamy Sauce

Without wiping out the skillet (those browned bits are pure flavor gold!), add the minced garlic. Let it bloom for just 30 seconds so it becomes fragrant but doesn’t burn. Pour in the chicken broth and stir, making sure to scrape up every bit stuck to the pan—these are what give the sauce its depth. Then, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes if you want a hint of spice. Let this sauce gently bubble and thicken for 3 to 4 minutes, melding all those flavors into creamy bliss.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook your pasta according to package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. Make sure to reserve at least 1/4 cup of that starchy pasta water before draining—the secret weapon for achieving silky sauce later!

Step 4: Bring it All Together

Add the drained pasta right into the creamy sauce, tossing everything together so each noodle is thoroughly coated. If the sauce feels too thick, just splash in some of that reserved pasta water until you reach your preferred consistency. Finally, nestle the sliced chicken back into the skillet, letting it warm in the sauce for 1 to 2 minutes and soak up all the incredible flavors.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Give your Marry Me Chicken Pasta a final stir, then garnish with plenty of fresh basil for color and aroma. Serve it hot from the skillet, and watch those faces light up at the table!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A big handful of freshly chopped basil sprinkled over the finished dish is the perfect green touch, while a little extra grated Parmesan on top adds indulgence and a nutty bite. For a hint of color and a finishing flourish, a few more sun-dried tomato pieces or a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes make this dish truly restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

To let the Marry Me Chicken Pasta shine, pair it with a simple salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or a platter of roasted vegetables. Crusty bread for mopping up that glorious sauce is never a bad idea. A glass of crisp white wine pairs beautifully if you want to turn dinner into a special occasion.

Creative Ways to Present

For a romantic or celebratory flair, serve this pasta in wide, shallow bowls for maximum sauce-spreading. Twirl portions into elegant nests, top each with a big slice of chicken, and scatter basil ribbons over the top. Or, try piling it in a big serving dish in the center of the table so everyone can help themselves family-style—the spirit of sharing only heightens how memorable this dish feels.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making second-day servings extra comforting. When storing, try to keep a little extra sauce with the pasta so it doesn’t dry out.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, let it cool completely first, then portion into freezer-safe containers. It will keep its flavor and texture best for up to two months. For easy reheating, freeze individual servings that you can thaw overnight or pop straight into the microwave.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth, cream, or even water to loosen up the sauce. Warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat while stirring, or use the microwave in short bursts, stirring between each interval. Garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of cheese to revive it just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add an even richer flavor and a touch more tenderness. Just adjust the cook time as needed—thighs may need an extra minute or two per side compared to breasts.

Will Marry Me Chicken Pasta work with gluten-free ingredients?

Yes, it’s easy to make this recipe completely gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free pasta. The creamy sauce and juicy chicken are naturally gluten-free, so the dish still turns out fantastic!

Do I have to use sun-dried tomatoes?

While sun-dried tomatoes bring something special with their sweet-tangy pop, you can skip them or swap for halved cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers if you need to.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Feel free to up the amount of red pepper flakes in both the sauce and as garnish. You could also stir in a bit of Calabrian chili paste for a deeper heat if you want your Marry Me Chicken Pasta with a real kick.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta and chicken for best results.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re planning a romantic date night, treating yourself, or surprising family or friends, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s every bit as satisfying as its name suggests. Dive in, make it your own, and let the creamy comfort and joyous flavor convince everyone at the table to ask for seconds!

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.7 from 6 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a creamy and flavorful pasta dish with Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Tender chicken cooked to perfection in a savory cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, all tossed with pasta for a delightful meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil

Sauce:

3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Additional:

8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

Season the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear in olive oil until golden and cooked through. Slice and set aside.
Make the Sauce: Sauté garlic, add chicken broth, cream, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until thickened.
Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta, reserving some pasta water. Toss cooked pasta in the sauce, adding chicken slices. Simmer briefly.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy hot.