If there’s one dish that deserves a special place in your weeknight dinner rotation, it’s this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. Imagine tender chicken cubes nestled in a luscious, creamy sauce bursting with sundried tomatoes and garlic, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and fresh greens. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you want to gather everyone around the table and savor every bite because it tastes like a warm hug on a plate. Trust me, once you try this, it might just inspire some very happy culinary proposals of your own.

1 lb. uncooked pasta (your choice of shape) arranged in a small neat pile, 2 tablespoons golden butter in a small ceramic dish, 1/2 finely diced white onion scattered delicately, 1 1/2 lbs. raw chicken breast cubes displayed on a rustic wooden board, coarse salt and black pepper in small glass bowls, 4 garlic cloves with some finely minced garlic beside them, 1 1/2 cups rich chicken broth in a clear measuring cup, 2 cups thick heavy cream in a white porcelain jug, 2/3 cup chopped sundried tomatoes glistening with oil in a small bowl, a pinch of red pepper flakes sprinkled artistically on a dark slate surface, 1 cup fresh baby spinach leaves slightly overlapping, 4 ounces grated Parmesan cheese in a small heap on parchment paper, 5-6 fresh bright green basil leaves fanned out, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning loose and some in a tiny bowl. All ingredients carefully spaced on a clean white marble surface with natural soft daylight, slight shadows enhancing textures, pops of vibrant red, green, and creamy whites creating visual contrast, minimalistic styling with a few fresh basil sprigs for accents, subtle rustic elements like a wooden board and parchment paper, crisp focus highlighting the different textures from smooth cream to coarse cheese and delicate leaves. overhead shot, top down view, flat lay photography, professional food styling --ar 1:1 --q 2 --s 750 --v 6.1

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe lies in its thoughtfully simple ingredients that come together to create incredible depth and comfort. Each component plays a key role from the rich creaminess of the heavy cream to the vibrant zing of sundried tomatoes and the fresh brightness of basil.

1 lb. Pasta: Choose your favorite shape—penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti—to soak up the creamy sauce perfectly.
2 Tablespoons Butter: This adds a silky base layer of richness for sautéing onions and chicken.
1/2 Onion (finely diced): Offers subtle sweetness and texture without overpowering the sauce.
1 1/2 lbs. Chicken Breast (cut into cubes): Tender, juicy pieces that will soak up all the delicious flavors.
1 teaspoon Salt: Essential seasoning to enhance all the ingredients naturally.
1 teaspoon Pepper: A bit of pepper adds gentle heat and balances the creaminess.
4 Garlic Cloves (finely minced): Garlic breathes life into the sauce with its aromatic punch.
1 1/2 cups Chicken Broth: Helps to form a flavorful sauce base and keeps the chicken moist.
2 cups Heavy Cream: The star ingredient for creating that indulgent, velvety texture.
2/3 cup Sundried Tomatoes (in oil, chopped): They bring a tangy, slightly sweet burst that brightens each bite.
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a gentle kick without overpowering the dish.
1 cup Fresh Baby Spinach: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch and a lovely pop of color.
4 ounces Parmesan Cheese (grated): Melts into the sauce for a sharp, savory depth.
5-6 Fresh Basil Leaves: Used at the end for a fragrant, herbaceous finish.
1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (optional): For an extra layer of classic Italian flavor if you desire.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions, aiming for al dente—firm but tender. Reserve about half a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining; this starchy liquid will be a handy secret for loosening the sauce later.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Onions

While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely diced onion and sauté until it’s soft, translucent, and fragrant—about five minutes. Season your chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook them until they’re golden on each side and cooked through, around five minutes per side. Toss in the minced garlic last, cooking it just thirty seconds to release its amazing aroma without burning.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up all those delicious browned bits stuck to the pan’s bottom—this is pure flavor magic. Let the sauce gently simmer to reduce and thicken slightly. Stir in your chopped sundried tomatoes, heavy cream, and the red pepper flakes. Let everything bubble softly for about five minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Add Greens and Cheese

Next, stir in the fresh baby spinach—if you like, chop the leaves beforehand for easier eating. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and allow it to melt completely into the sauce. This step is where the sauce gets that signature creamy richness that makes the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe so irresistible.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add your cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together gently. If your sauce feels a bit thick, splash in some reserved pasta water to loosen it up and help it cling beautifully to each bite of pasta. Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and if you like, add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Finish with fresh basil leaves torn or sliced for a lovely herbal lift.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Plate your creamy, dreamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta immediately, topping it off with extra Parmesan shavings and ribbons of fresh basil. This is comfort food that doubles as a celebration on your dinner plate.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

To make your Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe even more special, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil right before serving. A few extra fresh basil leaves or whole sundried tomatoes can add an elegant touch that elevates the presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing side dishes. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, or garlic bread rounds out the meal perfectly, bringing contrasting textures and balancing the richness of the pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party vibe, serve the pasta family-style in a large rustic bowl so everyone can help themselves. Alternatively, individual bowls garnished with vibrant herbs and a wedge of lemon bring a fresh, bright note. If you want to impress, serve alongside a glass of your favorite white wine and soft candlelight—instant magic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta fades nothing of its charm when stored correctly. Transfer your leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors may even deepen a bit after a day, making for an equally satisfying meal the next day.

Freezing

While this recipe tastes best fresh, you can freeze leftovers if necessary. Place the pasta in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to one month. Be mindful that the cream sauce might separate slightly upon thawing, so take care with reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to bring back that creamy consistency. Microwaving works too; just add a little moisture and heat gradually, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from breaking.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta in this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! The recipe is flexible. Penne, fusilli, rigatoni, or even farfalle all work wonderfully since they hold onto the creamy sauce nicely. Choose whatever shape you love or have on hand.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free or lighter?

Yes! Swap the heavy cream for a coconut cream or cashew cream to make it dairy-free. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese. Just be aware the texture and flavor will vary slightly.

How spicy is the red pepper flakes addition?

The red pepper flakes add a subtle warmth but not overwhelming heat. You can easily adjust the amount up or down based on your heat preference or omit if you want to keep it mild.

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

You sure can! Cooking the chicken in advance and refrigerating it separately will save time on busy nights. Just add it to the sauce in Step 3 and let it warm through before adding the pasta.

What’s the secret to melt-in-your-mouth chicken in this recipe?

Cooking the chicken over medium heat until golden but not overcooked is key. Be patient and avoid high heat, which can dry out the meat. The sauce’s creaminess also helps keep the chicken tender and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe that goes beyond its rich, creamy flavor—it’s a celebration of comfort food at its best. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or simply craving something deliciously homey, this dish will not disappoint. I hope you find as much joy in making and eating it as I do sharing it with friends and family. Go on, give it a whirl and make your dinner extra memorable tonight!