There’s something magical about Marry Me Chicken Pasta. It’s rich, velvety, and carries that “I could eat this forever” kind of charm. The first time I made it, I wasn’t chasing trends or viral recipes, I was chasing comfort. My nonna’s kitchen taught me that love often simmers in a single pan, and this dish is proof. Imagine tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and cream; it’s a story of bold flavors and tender care. It’s the type of meal that brings people closer, much like her Sunday sauces once did.
If you love cozy, Italian-inspired dinners like Creamy Garlic Chicken, this one’s destined to become your new favorite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Marry Me Chicken Pasta isn’t just delicious, it’s dependable. The creamy sauce hugs each strand of pasta, while the chicken stays juicy and perfectly seasoned. It’s quick enough for a weeknight yet elegant enough for date night. What makes it shine is that balance between indulgence and simplicity. You don’t need a long list of ingredients, just quality staples and a bit of patience.
It’s also incredibly versatile. You can swap chicken breasts for thighs, or even toss in shrimp for a twist. This dish isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection, much like Nonna’s philosophy of cooking. And once you taste that sauce, you’ll understand why people say this pasta can win hearts at first bite. For another crowd-pleaser, try this Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast.
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Marry Me Chicken Pasta
A creamy, rich, and flavorful Marry Me Chicken Pasta made with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for weeknights or romantic dinners.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
2 large boneless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves (minced)
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
¼ tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and black pepper to taste
12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
Instructions
1. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear in olive oil until golden. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pan, sauté garlic until fragrant. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up browned bits from the pan.
4. Stir in Parmesan and red pepper flakes, then simmer until slightly thickened.
5. Return chicken to the pan and cook until done.
6. Cook pasta separately until al dente, then toss with sauce.
7. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and basil.
Notes
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for richer flavor.
Add spinach or mushrooms for more texture.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently with extra cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Ingredients
The beauty of Marry Me Chicken Pasta lies in simple ingredients that build layers of flavor.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breasts | 2 large |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped) | ½ cup |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Chicken broth | ½ cup |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup (freshly grated) |
| Red pepper flakes | ¼ tsp |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
| Pasta (penne or fettuccine) | 12 oz |
For a cozy twist, serve it with crusty bread or alongside Chicken Gnocchi Soup.
How to Make the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear it in olive oil until golden brown. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant, then stir in sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up all those golden bits.
Next, add Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes. Let it thicken into a rich sauce before returning the chicken to simmer. Meanwhile, cook your pasta until al dente. Toss the pasta into the sauce, coating each piece in creamy perfection. Finish with extra cheese and a sprinkle of basil.
This recipe feels like a warm hug, similar to my One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta, but even more romantic.
Tips and Variations
- Use chicken thighs if you prefer richer flavor.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra depth.
- For a lighter option, replace heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Spice lovers can add a pinch more red pepper flakes.
- Make it gluten-free by swapping regular pasta for chickpea or rice pasta.
This recipe also reheats beautifully, just add a splash of cream before warming it. If you love creamy dishes like Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi, you’ll adore this version too.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the sauce and chicken in advance. When ready to serve, reheat on low and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
2. What pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne or rigatoni holds the sauce well, but fettuccine works beautifully too.
3. Can I substitute the cream?
You can use half-and-half or coconut milk, though it will slightly alter the texture.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add a bit of broth or cream when reheating to restore creaminess.
For other quick weeknight favorites, see this Cajun Chicken Rotini.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than a meal, it’s an experience. It’s comfort, warmth, and love on a plate. Every time I stir that creamy sauce, I’m reminded of my nonna’s words: “Food isn’t about showing off, it’s about showing care.” Whether you’re cooking to impress or simply to unwind, this dish delivers satisfaction in every bite.
Loved this recipe? Follow me on Pinterest for more comforting dishes and easy weeknight favorites you’ll want to save.
