If you’re looking for a dish that feels truly special but is surprisingly simple to make, the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. This rich and creamy pasta combines tender chicken strips with a luscious sun-dried tomato and Parmesan sauce that clings beautifully to each bite of pasta. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight or an impressive dinner when you want to wow someone without a ton of fuss. The combination of savory, creamy, and slightly tangy flavors makes every forkful irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture that make this dish unforgettable. From the perfectly seasoned chicken to the creamy sauce studded with sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan, every component brings something special to your plate.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into strips): Provides tender protein that soaks up all the sauce flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps sear the chicken to a golden perfection, adding depth and richness.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a mild kick and balances the creaminess of the sauce.
- 1 tsp paprika: Offers a smoky warmth that complements the sun-dried tomatoes nicely.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor and a bit of zing.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped, oil-packed and drained): Brings a tangy, rich sweetness that makes this sauce unforgettable.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth while keeping the sauce light enough to coat pasta perfectly.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that silky, luxurious texture that is absolutely crave-worthy.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Essential for a sharp, salty finish that melts into the sauce.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a bit of heat to contrast the creaminess.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice): The vehicle for all that delicious sauce—pick your favorite.
- 1 tbsp butter: Adds extra richness when sautéing the garlic.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish: A fresh, vibrant touch to finish the dish.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking your pasta until al dente according to package instructions. This ensures your noodles have the perfect bite to hold up against the creamy sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce and chicken.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
While your pasta boils, season the sliced chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet, then add the chicken strips, cooking until golden and cooked through—usually about 5 to 6 minutes. This step locks in juices and creates a lovely crust that gives the dish a wonderful texture.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. In the same skillet, melt butter and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it—this step builds the foundational flavor for the sauce.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the garlic, stirring for a minute before pouring in the chicken broth, heavy cream, red pepper flakes if using, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 4 to 5 minutes until it thickens just enough to coat the pasta beautifully. This silky sauce is where the magic really happens.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir it into the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated with that creamy goodness. Finally, add your cooked pasta and toss everything together until well combined and heated through. This step guarantees every bite has a perfect balance of tender chicken, pasta, and luscious sauce.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing the dish with freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a burst of color and herbaceous brightness that cuts through the richness. You can also sprinkle additional grated Parmesan for an extra touch of salty sharpness that elevates every bite.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette are perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. For a veggie boost, steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli make wonderful complements.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce and tender chicken. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes on top for guests who appreciate a hint of spice. For special occasions, a side of edible flowers or microgreens can add a touch of elegance and surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, so give it a good stir after reheating to restore its creamy texture.
Freezing
While fresh is always best for creamy dishes, you can freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta by placing leftovers in freezer-safe containers. Use within two months for optimal flavor. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to avoid breaking the sauce.
Reheating
Warm leftovers slowly in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce feels too thick. Stir frequently until heated through to keep the chicken tender and the sauce silky smooth. Avoid microwaving for best texture, but in a pinch, stir well and heat in short bursts.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine and penne are classic choices, any pasta that holds sauce well like rigatoni or farfalle works wonderfully. Just be sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.
Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream in this recipe?
You can substitute half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream for a lighter version, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and creamy. Adding a bit of cornstarch can help thicken it up nicely.
Can this dish be made dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, swap the heavy cream with coconut milk or a creamy plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. The flavor will shift, but it can still be delicious.
What kind of sun-dried tomatoes should I use?
Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes are best because they add extra richness and flavor. Just be sure to drain them well before chopping and adding to the sauce to avoid excess oiliness.
How spicy is the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe?
The recipe is mild by default, but adding red pepper flakes brings a gentle heat that complements the creaminess. You can adjust the amount or omit it completely based on your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is a genuine crowd-pleaser that strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and approachable. Whether you’re cooking for weeknight comfort or a romantic dinner, it’s a dish that always feels like a celebration. I promise, once you try it, this creamy, sun-dried tomato pasta will become a favorite go-to for impressing others or simply treating yourself to something truly delicious.
Print
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Description
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich and flavorful one-pan dish featuring tender chicken strips cooked in a creamy sun-dried tomato and Parmesan sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Easy enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for a romantic meal, this recipe combines comforting Italian-inspired flavors into a satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed and drained)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp butter
Pasta & Garnish
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Season Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken strips with salt, black pepper, and paprika to evenly coat the meat.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5 to 6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Make Sauce: Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, red pepper flakes (if using), Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 4 to 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet and stir to coat them thoroughly in the creamy sauce.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss everything together gently until well combined and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh basil or parsley, and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Add fresh spinach to the sauce for extra greens and nutrition.
- This dish reheats well and makes excellent leftovers for the next day.
