If you’ve been looking for a romantic meal that’s equal parts impressive and comforting, Marry Me Chicken Pasta just might be your new secret weapon. This dreamy pasta brings tender chicken and sun-dried tomatoes together in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, tossing everything with your favorite noodles for a dinner that’s downright irresistible. The combination of simple but bold flavors makes it perfect for special occasions or turning a random Tuesday night into something magical. Whether you’re looking to woo someone or treat yourself, this dish is delicious proof that pasta can truly be swoon-worthy.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sometimes, the most memorable meals come together with humble, straightforward ingredients. Each component here plays a starring role, whether it’s adding richness, bright color, or an irresistible aroma to our Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts turn beautifully golden and soak up all the savory flavors.
Olive oil: Use a good-quality olive oil to sear your chicken and enrich the sauce.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the final dish.
Garlic powder: Adds extra savory depth and ensures delicious flavor in every bite.
Fresh garlic: Minced garlic blooms in the pan, infusing the whole sauce with an inviting aroma.
Sun-dried tomatoes: These little gems offer tangy sweetness and a pop of color.
Chicken broth: Lifts and enriches the sauce, and deglazes the pan for maximum flavor.
Heavy cream: Makes the sauce velvety and indulgent, tying all the ingredients together.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan delivers salty, nutty richness to the creamy sauce.
Red pepper flakes (optional): If you love a little kick, toss in some for gentle heat.
Dried thyme and oregano: These essential herbs bring a warm, earthy aroma to the sauce.
Pasta: Penne, fettuccine, or whatever pasta you love best—any of them will work!
Fresh basil or parsley: A shower of herbs adds fresh flavor and makes the plate pop.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta following the package instructions. Right before draining, scoop out about half a cup of that starchy pasta water—trust me, it’s liquid gold for your sauce later. Drain the pasta and set it aside so it’s ready to soak up every drop of flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, slice your chicken breasts into cutlets and season them all over with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4 to 5 minutes per side until they’re golden and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate so you can build all that flavor right in the same pan.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

No need to clean the skillet! Turn the heat down to medium, toss in the minced garlic, and let it sizzle for just about 30 seconds. When your kitchen smells irresistible, add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute or two until everything softens and the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up all those caramelized bits from the bottom of the pan for extra savory depth. Bring it to a simmer, then stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, red pepper flakes, thyme, and oregano. Let everything simmer gently for about 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens just enough to lightly coat the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta

Slice your chicken or leave the cutlets whole—your call! Return them to the pan, then add your pasta. Give everything a good toss so the penne or fettuccine is glossy and bathed in that luscious sauce. If you need to loosen things up, a splash of your reserved pasta water works wonders for a silky finish.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Spoon the Marry Me Chicken Pasta into bowls and scatter with a handful of freshly chopped basil or parsley. Serve it piping hot and prepare for lots of compliments!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

For a burst of freshness and color, sprinkle plenty of chopped basil or parsley over the top. A little extra grated Parmesan never hurt, and a crack of black pepper pulls everything together. If you love a hint of heat, finish with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a restaurant-worthy finish.

Side Dishes

Marry Me Chicken Pasta absolutely sings with simple sides like garlic bread to mop up the creamy sauce or a crisp green salad tossed with a zippy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli, make a lovely, light addition if you want to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving for a special occasion, try plating the chicken sliced and fanned over the pasta for a beautiful effect. Use wide, shallow bowls to let that creamy sauce shine, or serve family-style from a large platter for a cozy, communal feel. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of chili oil can add a unique twist for adventurous eaters.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce may thicken as it sits, but it will still be packed with savory-sweet flavors when you reheat it.

Freezing

This dish also freezes fairly well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to two months. For best results, freeze the chicken and sauce together, and cook up fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve—the texture will be best this way.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to restore the silky consistency. Stir often to prevent any sticking, and heat just until everything is warmed through and creamy again.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of chicken?

Absolutely! While chicken breasts are classic for Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you can swap in boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through.

What types of pasta work best for this dish?

Penni and fettuccine are favorites because their shape holds onto the sauce, but honestly, any pasta will work. Feel free to use what you have on hand or what you love most—short shapes, long noodles, or even gluten-free pasta.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter version, try using half-and-half or even evaporated milk. The sauce won’t be quite as rich, but you’ll still capture that creamy essence that makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta so wonderful.

How can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta vegetarian?

For a vegetarian twist, skip the chicken and bulk up the sauce with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or artichokes. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth, and you’ll have an equally delicious, veggie-friendly meal.

Can I make this dish ahead for a dinner party?

Definitely! You can cook the sauce and chicken a day ahead and refrigerate. When you’re close to serving time, simply reheat the sauce, cook your pasta, and toss everything together. Just be sure to reserve some pasta water to help bring the sauce back to life.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a pasta dish that practically guarantees rave reviews, give Marry Me Chicken Pasta a spot on your dinner table. It’s rich, inviting, and easy enough to whip up on any night you want to make a little extra special. Go ahead—gather your loved ones, pour a glass of wine, and let this dish work its magic!

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 15 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful, creamy pasta dish with tender chicken cutlets in a flavorful Parmesan cream sauce. Sun-dried tomatoes add a touch of sweetness and depth to this comforting main course.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into cutlets)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder

Sauce:

3 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried oregano

Additional:

8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
Chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Prepare pasta according to package instructions, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water. Drain and set aside.
Sear the chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sear in olive oil until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
Make the sauce: Saute garlic, add sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan, spices. Simmer until thickened.
Combine: Add chicken and cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding pasta water if needed.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.