If you're looking for a delicious, hearty meal that will impress your loved ones and maybe even prompt a proposal (hence the name!), this "Marry Me Chicken Pasta" is the perfect recipe. Creamy, flavorful, and loaded with juicy chicken and rich Parmesan sauce, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Read through the entire article for step-by-step instructions, tips, and presentation ideas that will make your Marry Me Chicken Pasta truly unforgettable.
What is “Marry Me Chicken Pasta”?
"Marry Me Chicken Pasta" is a popular creamy pasta dish made with tender chicken breasts, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. The dish got its quirky name because it's supposedly so delicious that anyone who eats it will want to propose to the cook! The combination of creamy sauce, succulent chicken, and savory sun-dried tomatoes creates a perfect harmony of flavors, making this dish an irresistible comfort food.
Ingredients List for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
To make this savory dish, you'll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken and Pasta:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness)
- 8 oz of your favorite pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work great)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the chicken)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder or 4 fresh garlic cloves (minced)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream (you can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ½ cup chicken broth (optional, but adds extra flavor)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of spice)
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil (chopped for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Ingredients List for Toppings and Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- Extra Parmesan cheese (for sprinkling)
- Cracked black pepper (for taste)
- A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil (optional, for extra richness)
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about this Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is how adaptable it can be to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Here are some substitutions and variations you can consider:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta made from quinoa, rice, or chickpeas to accommodate gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
- Lighter Version: Swap out heavy cream for half-and-half or even a plant-based cream alternative like coconut milk or almond cream for a lighter and dairy-free option. You can also use zoodles (zucchini noodles) instead of pasta for a low-carb option.
- Protein Variations: While chicken is the star of this dish, you can substitute it with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Extra Veggies: Add in extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to boost the nutritional value of the dish.
- Herb Variations: If you want to switch things up, try adding fresh oregano, thyme, or parsley instead of basil.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let's dive into the step-by-step guide for making your Marry Me Chicken Pasta.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set it aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice it into strips or cubes.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic (if using fresh) and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Next, stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth (if using), Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Add Parmesan: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce. The sauce should become creamy and luscious. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning, if needed.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together to coat the chicken and pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
How to Cook Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Chicken: Always season your chicken breasts before cooking. This helps infuse flavor right into the meat. Cooking the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F ensures it's juicy and perfectly cooked.
- Create a Flavorful Base: Building a flavorful sauce is key. Sautéing garlic in butter adds depth and richness, while sun-dried tomatoes provide a slightly sweet, tangy flavor that balances the creaminess of the sauce.
- Simmer and Thicken: Make sure to simmer the sauce long enough so it thickens and clings to the pasta. Stir occasionally to avoid burning the bottom of the skillet.
- Incorporate Cheese Slowly: When adding Parmesan, do it gradually. This ensures the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce without clumping or separating.
- Toss Together: Always add your cooked pasta and chicken at the end. Toss them thoroughly in the sauce to ensure every bite is coated with creamy goodness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: If you cook your chicken too long, it can become dry and tough. Make sure to sear it on medium-high heat and not overdo the cooking time.
- Not Letting the Sauce Thicken: Rushing the sauce is a common mistake. Give it time to simmer and thicken for a creamier consistency.
- Using Low-Quality Parmesan: Cheap Parmesan cheese can ruin the texture of your sauce. Always opt for high-quality, freshly grated Parmesan for best results.
- Undercooking or Overcooking the Pasta: Pasta should be cooked al dente, meaning it’s firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta will become mushy, while undercooked pasta will be too chewy.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation matters! You’ve put so much effort into making your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, so it deserves to be served beautifully. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:
- Garnish: Freshly chopped basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese make your dish look and taste fresher.
- Add Some Color: Sun-dried tomatoes already provide some vibrant color, but you can add extra brightness with chopped parsley or a side salad of mixed greens.
- Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving adds richness and gloss to the pasta, giving it a restaurant-quality finish.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Serve your Marry Me Chicken Pasta family-style in a large, beautiful bowl, or plate individual portions with a generous helping of chicken and sauce on top. Pair this pasta with garlic bread, a side of steamed veggies, or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Presentation Ideas for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Rustic Style: Serve on a wooden cutting board with crusty garlic bread on the side, and sprinkle basil and Parmesan right before serving.
- Elegant Date Night: Use white plates, place a sprig of basil on top for a pop of color, and set the mood with candlelight and a glass of white wine.
- Family Feast: Pile the pasta in a large ceramic bowl, and let everyone help themselves. It’s perfect for family gatherings or potluck dinners.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat and add fresh-cooked pasta and chicken.
- Store Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
- Double the Recipe: This dish is so popular, you may want to make extra! Simply double the ingredients to serve a larger crowd or to have leftovers for the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work well in this recipe, but they may take slightly longer to cook. Be sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Q2: Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
While you can freeze the sauce, it’s best not to freeze the pasta as it may become mushy when thawed. Cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to eat the frozen sauce.
Q3: What can I serve with this pasta?
Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad with a lemon vinaigrette pair wonderfully with Marry Me Chicken Pasta.
Q4: Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, simply increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the sauce to add more heat.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful, and hearty dish that is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and delicious pasta, this recipe will win over any dinner guest. Give it a try, and you may just find that it becomes a permanent staple in your recipe rotation. Don’t forget to experiment with substitutions and variations to make it your own!
PrintMarry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, rich dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a flavorful sauce of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and parmesan. Perfect for a romantic dinner, this easy recipe brings together simple ingredients for a restaurant-quality meal at home. With the right balance of creaminess and tanginess, it’s sure to impress. Pair with a salad or garlic bread for the perfect meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil
- Garlic cloves
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Heavy cream
- Chicken broth
- Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes
- Fresh basil
- Penne pasta
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear in a hot skillet with olive oil until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the sauce to a simmer.
- Stir in parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil. Let it thicken.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it with the sauce. Simmer for a few minutes.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, combining everything.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan and basil if desired.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can substitute white wine for part of the chicken broth.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
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