Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is one of those comforting meals that feels restaurant-worthy but is surprisingly easy to make at home. Tender chicken pieces are coated in a rich and creamy parmesan sauce with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian herbs, then tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Every bite is packed with savory flavor, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners, date nights, or family gatherings. The combination of cream, parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a sauce that is both luxurious and comforting, which is exactly why this dish has become so popular among home cooks.

Main Essence of This Dish

The magic of Marry Me Chicken Pasta comes from its creamy sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce. The sauce clings to every piece of chicken and pasta, creating a rich and flavorful dish without requiring complicated techniques. The slight tanginess of the tomatoes balances the richness of the cream, while garlic and Italian seasoning add depth and warmth. It is a complete meal that feels special enough for guests yet simple enough for a busy evening.

Recipe Information

Also Read: Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Pasta and Sauce

• 10 ounces penne pasta
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, drained
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish

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How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and season them with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Toss until evenly coated.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm.

Step 4: Make the Sauce Base

Using the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute to form a smooth paste.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking. Add the heavy cream and continue stirring until smooth. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 6: Add Flavor

Stir in the parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes thick and creamy.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss until everything is coated in the creamy sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes so the flavors can blend together.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the top and serve immediately while hot.

Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for a smoother and richer sauce.
• Do not overcook the pasta since it will continue absorbing sauce after mixing.
• Reserve a little pasta water if you need to thin the sauce.
• For extra flavor, use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes.
• Add spinach during the final few minutes for a vegetable boost.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta pairs beautifully with garlic bread, rosemary focaccia, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. The creamy sauce also works wonderfully with a side of steamed broccoli or asparagus.

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Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Freezing is possible, but cream-based sauces may separate slightly after thawing.

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Nutritional Information

Approximate values per serving.