If you’re looking for a comforting, heart-stealing meal that always gets rave reviews, the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is the answer. This decadent dish brings together juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken breast, sun-dried tomatoes bursting with tangy sweetness, and a creamy Parmesan sauce that clings to every twirl of pasta. Each bite is rich, satisfying, and bursting with flavor—perfect for impressing someone special or just treating yourself to an indulgent night in. Whether you’re aiming for a romantic dinner or just need a pick-me-up meal, this pasta is a true crowd-pleaser you’ll come back to again and again.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the things I love most about this recipe is that you don’t need a long shopping list—every ingredient plays an essential role, making the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe both accessible and absolutely delicious. From the savory base to the creamy sauce, it’s the ideal combination of simple staples and flavorful add-ins.

Chicken breasts: Halved and seasoned, they provide the juicy, savory centerpiece for the dish.
Salt: Brightens all the flavors and enhances the overall taste.
Black pepper: Adds subtle heat and rounds out the seasoning.
Italian seasoning: Lends a fragrant blend of herbs that make the chicken extra aromatic.
Olive oil: For pan-searing the chicken, giving it a gorgeous, golden crust.
Garlic: A big flavor boost, sautéed just until fragrant to infuse the sauce.
Sun-dried tomatoes (in oil): Sweet, tangy, and bold—these add color and a punchy flavor contrast.
Heavy cream: Creates the backbone of that luscious, velvety sauce that coats the noodles perfectly.
Chicken broth: Enhances the savory undertones and helps thin out the sauce just right.
Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a nutty, salty finish you’ll crave.
Red pepper flakes: A touch of heat balances out the richness and keeps you coming back for another bite.
Penne pasta: The ultimate pasta shape for catching every bit of sauce; cook it al dente for the perfect bite.
Fresh basil (optional): For garnishing and adding a pop of fresh, herbal brightness.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Begin by taking your chicken breasts and carefully slicing them horizontally—you’ll get thinner cutlets that cook more evenly and soak up all the seasonings. Sprinkle both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This little extra attention ensures each bite is both juicy and super flavorful.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add your chicken and let it cook undisturbed for four to five minutes per side. You’re aiming for a rich, golden-brown crust on the outside while keeping it tender within. Set the cooked chicken aside on a plate so it can rest—and don’t wipe out the skillet! Those browned bits on the bottom are bursting with flavor and will make your sauce sing.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and give it a quick sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Stir in your chopped sun-dried tomatoes, then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Let it all simmer for a few minutes, stirring gently, until the sauce thickens and becomes irresistibly creamy. The aroma alone will tempt you to sneak a taste!

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Slice your cooked chicken into strips (or bite-sized chunks if you prefer) and slide it right back into the skillet, letting it mingle with that luscious sauce. Add in the cooked penne pasta and toss everything together so the sauce coats every noodle and piece of chicken. Warm everything through—this is where the ingredients truly become the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe we all adore.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Grab your prettiest plates and twirl up generous portions of the creamy pasta. Scatter fresh basil on top if you have it; it introduces a fresh, aromatic finishing touch. Serve while piping hot and watch those smiles appear around your table.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh basil or extra shaved Parmesan adds the perfect pop of color and a punch of fresh flavor. If you like a bit more heat, a light dusting of additional red pepper flakes is wonderful as well. Don’t be shy—the way you finish the dish can make it feel restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

This rich pasta pairs beautifully with a fresh, crisp green salad or simple roasted veggies like broccolini, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. For soaking up every drop of creamy sauce, a warm hunk of crusty bread is always a welcome addition. Wine lovers—try a light, zippy white!

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving a crowd, consider making individual pasta bowls or even a family-style presentation in a gorgeous serving dish. For a romantic dinner, twirl the pasta into neat nests and place the sliced chicken right on top, garnished with herbs. Or for a cozy night in, just pile it up in your favorite bowl and get comfy—a dish this good makes any setting feel special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers of your Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It will keep well for up to three days, and honestly, the flavors become even more harmonious overnight, making those next-day lunches extra special.

Freezing

If you’re planning ahead or drafted by surprise plans, you can freeze individual portions of the fully cooled pasta for up to two months. The heavy cream sauce may separate a bit, but it’ll come back together nicely with a gentle reheat and a splash of fresh cream or broth.

Reheating

To reheat, simply transfer to a pan over low heat, adding a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Warm it gently until heated through, stirring occasionally. For microwave reheating, use a lower power setting and cover loosely, stirring halfway for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is classic in the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe, you can swap in fettuccine, rigatoni, or even spaghetti—anything that’ll cling to that creamy sauce works beautifully.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you’re aiming for a lighter dish, substitute half-and-half or even whole milk. The sauce will be a bit less rich, but still delicious and creamy.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You sure can! Prepare everything up to combining the chicken and sauce; let them cool separately and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the sauce, add the cooked pasta, and toss together just before serving.

Are there vegetarian options?

Definitely. You can swap the chicken for pan-seared tofu or even roasted mushrooms, keeping all the saucy goodness and depth of flavor in the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe.

How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?

Halve the chicken breasts for even cooking and keep an eye on them as they sear—four to five minutes per side is usually perfect. Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure; you want the thickest part to reach 165°F for juicy results.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just in the mood for a comforting, flavor-packed meal, the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is a guaranteed winner. Give it a try, share it with someone you love, and let a simple dinner turn into something truly memorable. Happy cooking!