Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for this irresistible Marry Me Chicken Pasta, a creamy, dreamy dish that brings together tender chicken, al dente penne, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious Parmesan sauce that’s downright swoon-worthy. This recipe checks all the boxes: it’s easy enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for guests, packed with bold Italian flavors, and guaranteed to leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you need a quick dinner or a showstopper for your next get-together, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is about to become your new kitchen favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Marry Me Chicken Pasta begins with a handful of simple, top-quality ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role, whether it’s creating a creamy base, adding a burst of savory flavor, or delivering the perfect bite of pasta. Here’s what you’ll need and why each is important:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken (1 ½ pounds): Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and to soak up all that delicious sauce.
• Penne Pasta (10 ounces): Its tube shape traps the creamy sauce and bits of chicken for the perfect mouthful every time.
• Salt (½ teaspoon) & Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Essential for seasoning the chicken and drawing out all the natural flavors.
• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): For browning the chicken and adding subtle fruitiness.
• Butter (3 tablespoons): Lends richness and melts into the sauce for that signature smooth texture.
• Garlic, minced (2 teaspoons): Sautéed just until fragrant, it builds the savory backbone of the sauce.
• Flour (3 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce without making it heavy.
• Chicken Broth (2 cups): Brings depth and body to the creamy sauce.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): The secret to achieving that ultra-rich, velvety finish!
• Parmesan Cheese, grated (1 cup): Adds a salty, nutty layer of umami that’s simply unbeatable.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes, drained (1 cup): Their concentrated sweetness brightens every bite.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and a subtle smokiness that makes the flavors pop.
• Dried Italian Seasoning (2 teaspoons): A blend of herbs that instantly gives the dish its classic Italian personality.
• Fresh Basil (for garnish): A final flourish of color and fresh aroma that brings everything together.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. Drain the pasta, toss it lightly with a drizzle of olive oil (to prevent sticking), and set it aside while you tackle the chicken and sauce. This step sets the stage for that beautiful pasta texture in your Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Cut your boneless skinless chicken into one-inch pieces, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden on the outside and cooked through on the inside. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate, but keep that skillet handy – you’ll be using all those lovely browned bits for your sauce next!

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Return the same skillet to the stovetop and reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt completely, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic starts to smell amazing – be careful not to let it burn. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly, forming a smooth paste that will thicken your sauce beautifully. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is glossy, creamy, and lump-free.

Step 4: Add Flavorful Extras

Now, it’s time to turn up the flavor! Stir in your drained sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and dried Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes so the flavors can mingle and the sauce thickens to that restaurant-worthy consistency. Taste and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed. This luxurious sauce is the heart of Marry Me Chicken Pasta, so let those sweet and savory notes shine!

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the pasta. Gently toss everything together, making sure the chicken and noodles are completely coated in the creamy, sun-dried tomato-studded sauce. Give it a couple more minutes over low heat so everything is piping hot and infused with flavor. When you’re ready, serve up generous portions and finish with a shower of fresh basil and extra Parmesan if you want to take things over the top.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

The finishing touches can elevate Marry Me Chicken Pasta from simple comfort food to something truly memorable. A handful of chopped fresh basil adds beautiful color and fragrant freshness, while an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese gives a salty, cheesy lift that melts right on top. For a little extra zing, try a light twist of cracked black pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs easily with sides that balance its richness. A crisp green salad dressed with a lemony vinaigrette cuts through the creamy sauce, while roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli complement those Italian flavors. And don’t forget garlic bread or warm focaccia to soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce—no one will want to waste a drop of Marry Me Chicken Pasta!

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting or just want to make dinner feel special, serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta in a big family-style bowl at the center of the table, or plate it individually with a little extra sauce spooned over each serving. A few scattered sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil leaves make it look restaurant-worthy. For a fun twist, scoop it into mini cast iron skillets for a cozy, rustic presentation that always gets rave reviews.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta, lucky you! Simply store the cooled pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for up to 3 days—the flavors might even marry (pun intended!) and deepen overnight, making for an even tastier lunch the next day.

Freezing

Marry Me Chicken Pasta can be frozen for later enjoyment. Scoop cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, squeezing out as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Just keep in mind the creamy sauce may separate a bit, but a quick stir when reheating helps bring it right back together.

Reheating

To reheat, microwave individual portions on medium power in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between, or gently warm in a skillet over low heat on the stovetop. If the sauce seems a little thick after chilling, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to help loosen things up and revive that silky texture.

FAQs

What makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta so special?

This pasta is all about layers of flavor—velvety sauce, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, juicy chicken, and fragrant herbs—all coming together in one dish that tastes like it took hours but comes together in under an hour. Its name says it all: one bite and you’ll fall in love!

Can I substitute a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is classic for Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you can swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine. Just choose a shape with plenty of nooks and crannies to soak up the sauce.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream?

Yes! You can use full-fat coconut milk or an unsweetened plant-based cream alternative. Just note, the flavor and texture might be slightly different, but the dish will still be delicious.

Can I add vegetables to Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Definitely. Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers work beautifully, and you can stir them into the sauce just before adding back the chicken and pasta for a boost of color and nutrition.

How spicy is this recipe?

This dish is more savory and creamy than spicy, as the paprika adds warmth rather than heat. If you like a little kick, throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to amp it up.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as impressive as it is comforting, give Marry Me Chicken Pasta a try. It’s truly one of those recipes that’s made to be shared and enjoyed, whether it’s a cozy night in or a big family celebration. I hope it becomes a new favorite at your table—it’s just too delicious to keep to yourself!

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