The Swoon-Worthy “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” Recipe You’ll Adore

Have you heard about the internet-sensation marry me chicken pasta that’s been making social media rounds?

Countless home cooks are falling head over heels for this creamy, irresistible dish packed with rich flavors.

Tender chicken breasts swim in a luxurious sun-dried tomato sauce that promises to win over even the pickiest eaters.

Italian-inspired ingredients combine in a magical way, creating something more than just another weeknight meal.

Each forkful delivers a perfect balance of tangy and savory notes that dance across your palate.

Surprisingly simple yet incredibly delicious, this recipe might just become your new go-to dinner favorite.

Grab a skillet and let the culinary romance begin!

Why Everyone’s Talking About Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Savor Creamy Comfort: This dish delivers a luxurious, velvety sauce that hugs each pasta strand and tender chicken piece, creating a mouthwatering blend of rich, indulgent flavors.
• Quick Weeknight Wonder: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal that's perfect for busy families craving delicious home-cooked dinner.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and aromatic herbs creates a bold taste profile that elevates classic chicken pasta to an exciting culinary experience.
• One-Skillet Magic: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor make this recipe a go-to for home cooks seeking convenience without compromising on taste and presentation.

All the Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Chicken: Lean protein that forms the main component of the dish, best when boneless and skinless.
• Parmesan Cheese: Rich, salty cheese that adds depth and creaminess to the sauce, freshly grated preferred.

• Pasta: Classic pasta base that absorbs the delicious sauce, choose penne or similar short pasta.
• Chicken Broth: Provides liquid foundation and enhances overall flavor profile.

• Onions, Garlic: Foundational aromatics that create a savory flavor base, fresh is always best.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Concentrated tomato flavor that adds sweet and tangy notes.
• Italian Seasoning: Herb blend that brings traditional Mediterranean warmth to the dish.
• Paprika: Mild spice that adds subtle warmth and beautiful color.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings for balancing and elevating all other flavors.

• Butter, Cream: Creates smooth, rich sauce with luxurious texture.
• Olive Oil: Used for cooking chicken, adds subtle fruity undertone.

• Fresh Basil: Bright, aromatic herb that provides fresh finish and visual appeal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Boil Pasta Perfectly

In a spacious pot, generously salt water and bring to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook until it reaches that perfect al dente texture – tender but with a slight bite. Carefully drain in a colander, reserving a splash of pasta water for later. Set aside and let it rest.

Step 2: Sear Chicken to Golden Perfection

• Kosher salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper

Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet with olive oil until it shimmers. Carefully place chicken in the pan, allowing each side to develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. Cook until internal temperature reaches safe levels. Transfer to a waiting plate.

Step 3: Create Magical Sauce Base

• Finely chopped onions
• Minced garlic

• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Rich chicken broth
• Heavy cream

Stir and let the mixture bubble gently.

Step 4: Elevate the Sauce

• Freshly grated Parmesan
• Smoky paprika
• Italian herb blend

Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken, creating a luxurious coating. Taste and adjust seasonings with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 5: Bring Everything Together

Reunite the golden chicken and perfectly cooked pasta with the creamy sauce. Toss until every morsel is beautifully coated. Scatter fresh basil leaves on top and dust with extra Parmesan. Serve immediately while piping hot.

Helpful Tips to Nail the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Pasta Perfection: Choose short pasta like penne or rigatoni to capture more sauce and create better bite-sized portions.
• Chicken Searing Secrets: Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a golden-brown, crispy exterior that locks in maximum flavor.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a plant-based friendly version.
• Flavor Boost: Toast sun-dried tomatoes briefly before adding to the sauce to intensify their rich, concentrated taste and aroma.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the sauce and chicken separately, storing them refrigerated, and combine just before serving to maintain optimal texture and freshness.

How to Store and Warm Up Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Transfer remaining Marry Me Chicken Pasta into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Seal tightly to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of other food odors.
• Freezing Option: Carefully pack pasta in freezer-safe containers, removing excess air. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Separate chicken and sauce to prevent texture breakdown during freezing.
• Reheating Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding splash of chicken broth or cream to restore sauce consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
• Microwave Method: Place portion in microwave-safe dish, cover with damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed. Add small amount of liquid if sauce appears dry.

Side Dishes That Go Great with Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Spark Wine Harmony: Choose a crisp, medium-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy sauce and cut through the richness of the chicken and Parmesan.
• Craft Bread Sidekick: Select a crusty garlic bread or focaccia to soak up the luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce, adding texture and enhancing the meal's overall flavor profile.
• Balance Salad Companion: Prepare a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to provide a fresh, peppery contrast to the rich pasta, creating a balanced and refreshing dining experience.
• Elevate Herb Accent: Sprinkle fresh basil or chopped parsley not just as a garnish, but as a vibrant flavor booster that adds brightness and aromatic depth to the creamy chicken pasta.

Different Ways to Enjoy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Spicy Fusion Feast: Replace Italian seasoning with red pepper flakes and add diced jalapeños for a fiery kick. Swap sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers to enhance the heat and complexity.
• Mediterranean Herb Journey: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese and chopped kalamata olives. Use fresh oregano and thyme instead of Italian seasoning, creating a bright Greek-inspired flavor profile.
• Creamy Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with roasted portobello mushrooms or crispy tofu. Add spinach and artichoke hearts for extra texture and nutrients. Keep the rich, creamy sauce intact.
• Lighter Wellness Approach: Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. Replace half the pasta with zucchini noodles, reducing carbohydrates while maintaining the dish's comforting essence. Select grilled chicken breast for a leaner protein.

Common Questions About Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

• What makes this Marry Me Chicken Pasta so special?

The combination of creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly seasoned chicken creates an irresistibly delicious dish that’s packed with flavor and has earned its romantic name by being so incredibly tasty.

• Is this recipe difficult to make?

Not at all! This dish is surprisingly simple and comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Even home cooks with basic skills can easily master this recipe.

• Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While the recipe works great with classic pasta shapes like penne or fettuccine, you can easily swap in your favorite pasta. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente to hold up well in the creamy sauce.

• How can I make this recipe more budget-friendly?

Swap fresh sun-dried tomatoes for cheaper dried ones, use regular cream instead of heavy cream, and buy chicken when it’s on sale. These small tweaks can help reduce the overall cost without compromising flavor.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.9 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy marry me chicken pasta combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan in a luscious sauce that promises culinary romance. Bold Italian-inspired flavors and simple ingredients make this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll want to savor again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins:

• 1.5 pounds (680 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Pasta and Base:

• 10 ounces (283 grams) penne pasta, cooked al dente
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Sauce and Seasonings:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Bring a generously salted water reservoir to a rolling boil and gently submerge pasta, cooking until it reaches a tender yet firm consistency. Carefully strain the pasta, preserving its texture, and reserve to the side.
2. Liberally season the chicken cutlets with aromatic salt and freshly cracked pepper. Heat a robust skillet with olive oil until shimmering, then strategically place chicken pieces to achieve a golden-brown exterior. Sear each side meticulously until the protein is thoroughly cooked and develops a rich caramelized crust. Transfer the chicken to a waiting plate.
3. Utilize the same skillet’s remaining flavor foundations, introducing butter which will melt and create a luxurious base. Introduce finely diced onions and minced garlic, gently sweating them until they become translucent and fragrant. Fold in vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, then cascade chicken broth and velvety cream, allowing the mixture to harmonize and gently bubble.
4. Incorporate Parmesan cheese, smoky paprika, and herbaceous Italian seasoning into the simmering sauce. Allow the liquid to reduce and thicken, creating a silky consistency that clings beautifully to ingredients. Taste and refine seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired.
5. Reunite the previously prepared chicken and pasta within the aromatic sauce, delicately tossing to ensure each element is generously coated. Garnish with verdant fresh basil leaves and a graceful sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Present immediately to capture the dish’s optimal temperature and textural integrity.

Notes

• Choose short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni to help sauce cling perfectly and create delicious bites.
• Ensure chicken is pounded evenly to guarantee consistent cooking and prevent dry edges.
• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to achieve a beautiful golden-brown sear that locks in maximum flavor.
• Toast Italian seasoning briefly in the skillet before adding liquids to intensify herb aromatics and depth.
• For gluten-free adaptation, swap regular pasta with chickpea or zucchini noodles and use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening.
• Create a lighter version by replacing heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half for reduced calories.
• Leftover sauce transforms wonderfully into a delicious dip or spread for sandwiches and crackers.
• Add red pepper flakes for gentle heat or extra sun-dried tomatoes for more intense Mediterranean flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 725
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 40 g
• Saturated Fat: 20 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 54 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 36 g
• Cholesterol: 145 mg