Name: Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (such as penne or fettuccine); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 3/4 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 cup baby spinach (optional); Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

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If you’re searching for the ultimate creamy, crowd-pleasing comfort food, look no further than Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This dreamy dish features juicy, seasoned chicken nestled in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce dotted with sun-dried tomatoes and spun with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s the sort of meal that feels extravagant, yet comes together in just about 30 minutes—making it a favorite for date nights, family meals, or anytime you want to wow someone special.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need a pantry full of fancy ingredients to capture the magic of Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Every element in this recipe has an important role, from infusing flavor and boosting creaminess, to adding vibrant color and irresistible aroma.

12 oz pasta (such as penne or fettuccine): The canvas for all that savory sauce—choose your favorite shape for best bite.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the chicken and building a flavorful base.
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced): Slices quickly and delivers juicy goodness in every forkful.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and heightening the flavors throughout.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A subtle kick to balance the richness.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds mellow, savory depth to the chicken.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Deepens the sauce and gives it a gorgeous sheen.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic brings irresistible aroma and flavor to the sauce.
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For just a touch of heat that makes the dish pop.
3/4 cup chicken broth: Helps deglaze the pan and intensifies the savoriness.
1 cup heavy cream: Brings that signature silky, dreamy texture to the sauce.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds saltiness, umami, and beautiful creaminess.
1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained): Tangy and sweet, these jewels make every bite special.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A quick way to layer in classic herb flavor.
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: A hint more earthiness and aroma.
1/2 cup baby spinach (optional): For a pop of color and an extra serving of greens.
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish: The finishing touch that adds brightness and beauty to your plate.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, and cook your pasta according to the package directions. Aim for al dente so it can absorb some of the sauce later. Once cooked, drain and set aside—don’t forget to reserve a cup of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later. This simple step ensures your Marry Me Chicken Pasta will cling perfectly to each noodle.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season your thinly sliced chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Place them in the skillet and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. This creates juicy, flavorful chicken that will soak up all that creamy sauce later!

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and, in the same skillet, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and, if you’re feeling bold, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra zing. Sauté just until fragrant, which only takes about 30 seconds—keep a close eye so you don’t let the garlic burn. This aromatic base sets the stage for the entire dish.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any golden bits from the pan (that’s where all the flavor lives!). Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and oregano. Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes as it thickens ever so slightly and takes on a dreamy, cohesive texture. This is the heart of Marry Me Chicken Pasta and where all the magic happens.

Step 5: Assemble and Finish Your Pasta

Return the chicken to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Toss well to coat everything generously in sauce. If you love greens, stir in the baby spinach and let it wilt for 1 to 2 minutes. If you prefer a looser sauce, drizzle in a little reserved pasta water. Serve hot, topped with a shower of fresh basil or parsley for that final loving touch.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

This dish thrives on a sprinkle of fresh herbs! Scatter chopped basil or parsley over the top before serving for a burst of color and garden-fresh flavor. If you’re feeling extra decadent, shower on a bit more grated Parmesan or a twist of cracked black pepper—the warm creamy sauce welcomes it.

Side Dishes

Since Marry Me Chicken Pasta is so rich and satisfying, keeping your sides simple works best. Try a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, or some roasted vegetables for contrast. A slice of garlic bread (to mop up every drop of sauce) will be wildly popular and makes any meal feel like a special occasion.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra-memorable presentation, twirl the pasta into nests on each plate and lay the sliced chicken on top. Or, serve everything family-style in a beautiful large bowl so people can help themselves. Garnish with edible flowers or a few extra sun-dried tomatoes for a gourmet restaurant feel at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, stash them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors of Marry Me Chicken Pasta meld together beautifully overnight, making lunch the next day an absolute treat.

Freezing

While creamy sauces can sometimes change texture after freezing, this dish holds up surprisingly well in a pinch. Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, undercook the pasta slightly before freezing so it doesn’t turn mushy upon reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce as needed. If you’re using the microwave, cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring between each round. This helps the sauce stay creamy and the pasta remains tender.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While penne and fettuccine are classics for Marry Me Chicken Pasta, anything from rigatoni to spaghetti or even gluten-free options will work beautifully. Just cook until al dente so the sauce clings perfectly.

Is there a lighter version of this recipe?

Yes! Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use less cheese for a lighter touch. You can also bulk up the veggies by stirring in extra spinach, steamed broccoli, or sliced mushrooms without sacrificing flavor.

Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time for entertaining?

Definitely. Prepare everything up to mixing the chicken and pasta with the sauce, then let it cool and refrigerate. When ready to serve, gently reheat and toss in fresh greens or an extra splash of cream for the freshest results.

What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

If you’re not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes, try roasted red peppers or a handful of cherry tomatoes. Either will add a sweet-tangy note and lovely color contrast to your Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

How spicy is this dish?

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is only as spicy as you want it! The red pepper flakes are entirely optional and can be added to taste. For a mild version, simply omit them or serve them on the side.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in search of a dish that feels special but is effortless enough for weeknights, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is pure magic. Give it a try, share it with someone you love, and enjoy every irresistibly creamy, flavor-packed bite. Here’s to new favorites and lots of happy “mmm’s” around your table!

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 3 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the creamy, flavorful goodness of Marry Me Chicken Pasta, a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a luscious sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and pasta for a truly satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 oz pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)

Chicken:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Sauce:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
3/4 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 cup baby spinach (optional)

Garnish:

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Boil pasta in salted water, drain, and set aside.
Cook the chicken: Season and cook chicken in olive oil until golden. Set aside.
Make the sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes, then add broth, cream, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and seasonings. Simmer until thickened.
Combine: Return chicken to the skillet, add pasta, and toss to coat. Add spinach if desired.
Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy hot.