If you’re on the lookout for a dish that combines comforting creaminess with rich, savory flavors, then you have to try this Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s exactly the kind of meal that feels like a special occasion but comes together effortlessly, with tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne, and a sauce that’s luxuriously smooth and bursting with sun-dried tomato goodness. This dish has that magical ability to make weeknights feel a little more elevated and weekends super indulgent, all while being something you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this recipe’s irresistible taste lies in the simplicity and harmony of its ingredients. Each component, from the sharpness of parmesan to the fragrant Italian herbs, plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, richness, and that perfect creamy texture we all crave.
- 10 ounces penne pasta: The ideal pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly in every bite.
- 1 and 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender and juicy, they’re the protein star of the dish.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and is a great base for the sauce’s silky texture.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Provides a savory foundation that balances the creaminess.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This is where the truly luscious, creamy magic happens.
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese: Sharp and nutty, it melts into the sauce for depth and flavor.
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes: Brings tangy sweetness and a beautiful pop of color.
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic: For that irresistible aromatic punch.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to that perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds warmth and a subtle smoky undertone.
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs to brighten and enhance the whole dish.
- Salt to taste: To balance and bring out all the flavors.
- Black pepper to taste: Adds a little kick and complexity.
- Olive oil, for sautéing: To perfectly sear the chicken and develop flavor.
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish): Provides a fresh, herbal note and lovely presentation.
- Additional grated parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish): Because you can never have too much parmesan!
How to Make Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by boiling your penne pasta in salted water, following the package directions for al dente perfection. This step ensures your pasta has just the right bite to complement the creamy sauce without getting mushy. Once cooked, drain and set it aside, prepared to soak up all that goodness later on.
Step 2: Prepare and Sear the Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry and season them generously with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Setting the chicken aside at this point helps it stay juicy while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Build the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and toss in the minced garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, whisk in the flour without stopping to create a smooth roux. This technique prevents lumps and will help your sauce thicken beautifully.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Cheese
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly, followed by the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Continue whisking until the sauce becomes silky smooth and starts to thicken, signaling that it’s ready for the next flavor boosters.
Step 5: Flavor It Up
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, Italian seasoning, and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Let your sauce simmer gently, stirring frequently as it thickens further, allowing all the flavors to meld into that divine creamy base.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return your golden chicken breasts and cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Give everything a good toss to ensure each piece of pasta and chicken is thoroughly coated in that luscious sauce – this is what makes the Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe truly unforgettable.
Step 7: Serve It Warm and Gorgeous
There’s nothing quite like serving this dish warm and fresh. It’s comfort on a plate with an elegant touch, ready to make anyone fall in love at first bite.
How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves and a final dusting of grated parmesan really take this dish from delicious to show-stopping. The basil adds a vibrant green contrast and a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair this creamy pasta with a crisp green salad or some roasted seasonal veggies for a well-rounded meal. Garlic bread or a crusty loaf is also fantastic for mopping up every last bit of that heavenly sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra special presentation, slice the chicken breasts before plating and arrange them on top of the pasta. You can also drizzle a touch of high-quality olive oil or a balsamic glaze on the plate for an elegant finish that’s sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen with time, making it a perfect next-day lunch or dinner option.
Freezing
This dish freezes well when stored properly. Separate into individual portions and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Gently reheat in a skillet over low to medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and avoid drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully here because it holds the sauce well, you can swap it for rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle depending on what you have on hand.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use reduced-fat parmesan. Also, lean chicken breasts help keep it on the lighter side while preserving great taste.
Can I prepare this recipe without sun-dried tomatoes?
You can, but the sun-dried tomatoes add a distinctive tangy sweetness that really elevates the dish. Cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers can be fun alternatives if you want a twist.
What’s the best way to ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken, and avoid overcooking it. Cooking until just done and letting it rest briefly off the heat will keep it tender and moist.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free flour for the roux and gluten-free pasta to keep all the flavor while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is truly one of those dishes that wins hearts every single time. It’s approachable, full of flavor, and utterly comforting — exactly what you want on busy nights or when you’re craving a little kitchen magic. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and see just how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your rotation.
Print
Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a luscious, one-pan Italian-inspired dish featuring tender seared chicken breasts and al dente penne pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce made with parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic Italian seasonings. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet comes together in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 10 ounces penne pasta
Chicken
- 1 and 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil, for sautéing
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Garnish (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Additional grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil penne pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.
- Sear the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet, place on a plate, and keep warm.
- Make the Roux: Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the all-purpose flour, whisking constantly to form a smooth roux, which will help thicken the sauce.
- Build the Creamy Sauce: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth followed by the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Keep whisking until the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and thickens slightly.
- Add Flavor Enhancers: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer on medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Combine All Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and add the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together gently until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta warm. Optionally, garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional grated parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Ensure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy depth, but can be substituted with roasted red peppers if unavailable.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
