Name: Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 large boneless, skinless, sliced thinly; To taste; 2 tbsp for searing; 3 cloves minced; 1/3 cup chopped; 1/2 cup; 1 cup; 1/2 cup freshly grated; 1 tsp; 1/2 tsp optional for spice; 8 oz such as penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine; For garnish

If you’re searching for a dish that’ll win over hearts and taste buds alike, the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is your golden ticket! This irresistible combination of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and velvety cream sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta is pure pasta magic. With every twirl of the fork, you capture savory, tangy, cheesy bliss — ideal for date night, a cozy family dinner, or when you need a boost of culinary confidence.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe starts with a handful of straightforward (yet oh-so-important) ingredients. Each one brings character to the dish, delivering richness, aroma, color, and mouthwatering flavor.

Chicken Breasts: Sliced thinly, they sear up juicy and flavorful, soaking up the sauce beautifully.
Salt and Pepper: Simple yet essential for drawing out the best in your chicken before it ever hits the pan.
Olive Oil: For a golden sear and a hint of fruity flavor that’s classic in Italian-inspired cooking.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic perfumes the sauce, giving every bite an inviting warmth.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These gems add tang and a pop of color, intensifying the overall flavor profile.
Chicken Broth: Lays the savory base for the sauce and keeps everything nice and juicy.
Heavy Cream: Delivers the luscious, silky texture that makes the sauce unforgettably rich.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for a full, nutty flavor and creamy melt.
Italian Seasoning: A blend that ties together all the savory, herbal notes in true comfort food fashion.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but adds a playful whisper of heat for those who love a hint of spice.
Pasta: Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine hold the sauce and make every forkful irresistible.
Fresh Basil: The final burst of freshness and color, enhancing the aroma and presentation.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta shape according to the package instructions until just al dente — you want it with a little bite so it soaks up the sauce later without turning mushy. Drain and set aside, reserving about half a cup of the pasta water just in case your sauce needs loosening.

Step 2: Season & Sear the Chicken

Pat your chicken breasts dry and season both sides well with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the chicken in a single layer — let it sear without moving it for those crucial golden edges. Cook 3-4 minutes per side until beautifully browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic & Sun-Dried Tomatoes

In the same skillet (don’t clean it; those bits left behind are flavor gold), lower the heat and add the minced garlic. Sauté just until fragrant — about 30 seconds — then toss in those chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Let them warm through and release their tangy oils for another minute, stirring often to prevent burning.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any caramelized bits from the bottom of the pan as you go. Whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan until the sauce is creamy and smooth, then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and (if you love a gentle kick) the crushed red pepper flakes. Let the sauce bubble gently, thickening to silky perfection.

Step 5: Combine Chicken & Pasta

Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized strips or chunks, then return it to the skillet. Add your drained pasta as well, tossing and stirring so every piece is enveloped in that golden sauce. If things get too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it’s just right — saucy, glossy, and utterly inviting.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Finish strong by scattering fresh basil ribbons and an extra shower of Parmesan cheese over the top. Serve hot, straight from the skillet, while the sauce is silky and irresistible!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

A handful of torn fresh basil leaves brings a pop of green and a wonderful aroma that cuts through the creaminess. Sprinkle an extra pinch of Parmesan over each plate for restaurant-worthy flair, and if you’re in the mood, a crack of black pepper on top makes the flavors sing. For a little extra heat, dust the finished dish with more red pepper flakes.

Side Dishes

Pairing your Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe with a fresh green salad dressed in tangy vinaigrette balances the creamy richness. A basket of warm garlic bread or pillowy breadsticks is absolutely essential for mopping up every last drop of sauce. For color and crunch, quickly steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add brightness and nutrients with minimal effort.

Creative Ways to Present

Try swirling mounds of pasta onto plates using tongs for a restaurant-style look, then topping each serving with extra chicken and sun-dried tomatoes. Or serve this dish family-style in a big, rustic skillet for a casual but stunning centerpiece — perfect for sharing. For a special touch, drizzle a little olive oil and scatter extra basil just before bringing it to the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any remaining Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it’ll stay delicious for up to three days. You might even find the flavors deepen and meld with a little time!

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze leftovers, though the sauce may be a bit thicker once thawed (thanks to the cream and cheese). Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Freeze for up to two months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream, stirring until loosened and steaming hot. The microwave works in a pinch, but the stovetop prevents scorching and helps the sauce regain its luscious, creamy texture. Be careful not to overcook, as the chicken can dry out if left on the heat too long.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of chicken?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe, bringing even more juiciness and a slightly richer flavor. Just adjust cooking time as needed, since thighs may take a minute or two longer.

What kind of pasta works best?

Choose a pasta shape that soaks up the sauce, like penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine. Short pasta shapes are easier to toss and serve, while long noodles make for dramatic, twirlable presentations.

How can I make it vegetarian?

For a meat-free version, swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or crispy chickpeas, use veggie broth, and keep all the creamy, cheesy goodness. The result is still decadent and packed with flavor!

Can I lighten up the sauce?

You bet. Substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk for some or all of the heavy cream, and use a bit less Parmesan if you wish. The sauce will be a touch lighter but still satisfy all those creamy pasta cravings.

Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe spicy?

As written, the dish has only a subtle heat from optional red pepper flakes. If you’re sensitive to spice, simply leave them out — or double them if you love a little fire in your pasta!

Final Thoughts

Treat yourself and your loved ones to the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe — it’s a dish that sparks joy with every forkful. Whether you’re setting the mood for a special night or just craving a comforting, flavor-packed meal, this recipe never disappoints. Give it a try and you just might find yourself falling head over heels for homemade pasta all over again!