Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dish so delicious it’s said to inspire proposals! This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce, all served over perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a romantic date night, hosting a family dinner, or treating yourself to a comforting meal, this pasta is guaranteed to impress. With its bold flavors, velvety sauce, and stunning presentation, it’s no wonder this dish has earned its charming name.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly Creamy: The rich cream sauce clings to every strand of pasta, making each bite heavenly.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Elegant enough for special events yet easy enough for weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly: A surefire hit with both kids and adults, thanks to its creamy texture and mild spice.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy schedules.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or add your favorite veggies.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 cup of pasta with sauce and chicken

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 550
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well)
• Water for boiling
• 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pasta:

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken:

2. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.

Make the Sauce:

4. Sauté the Garlic: Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
5. Build the Sauce: Stir in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, thyme, and oregano. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Simmer: Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Combine:

7. Slice the Chicken: Slice the rested chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
8. Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
9. Add the Chicken: Top the pasta with the sliced chicken and sprinkle with fresh basil.

Serve:

10. Plate and Garnish: Divide the pasta and chicken among plates. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately.

Ingredient Background

Chicken:

• Boneless, Skinless Breasts: Lean and easy to cook; thighs can be used for a juicier alternative.
• Seasoning Blend: Adds layers of flavor to the chicken, complementing the sauce beautifully.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes:

• Flavor Bomb: Concentrated sweetness and tanginess make them a standout ingredient. Look for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for a richer texture.

Sauce:

• Heavy Cream: Creates a rich, velvety base for the sauce; half-and-half works as a lighter substitute.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds savory, nutty notes while helping to thicken the sauce.
• Garlic and Herbs: Essential aromatics that bring depth to the dish.

Pasta:

• Pasta Choice: Penne or fettuccine are ideal for holding the creamy sauce, but any pasta shape will work.

Technique Tips

• Pat Chicken Dry: Ensures a good sear and prevents the chicken from steaming in the pan.
• Don’t Overcook: Remove chicken promptly to keep it juicy and tender.
• Save Pasta Water: The starchy water helps adjust the sauce consistency.
• Simmer Gently: Avoid boiling the cream sauce to prevent separation.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Baked Marry Me Pasta: Transfer the assembled dish to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and broil until bubbly.
• Marry Me Pasta Bowls: Serve the pasta in individual bowls topped with chicken strips for a polished presentation.
• Family-Style Platter: Arrange the pasta and chicken on a large serving platter for a communal dining experience.

Additional Tips for Success

• Double the Sauce: Make extra sauce if you love your pasta extra creamy or want to use it as a dip for bread.
• Cheese Quality Matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth texture.
• Resting the Chicken: Letting the chicken rest after cooking ensures it stays juicy when sliced.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Marry Me Pasta: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or artichokes.
• Seafood Option: Use shrimp or scallops instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerate:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce.

Freeze:

• Chicken: Freeze cooked chicken separately from the pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
• Sauce and Pasta: Freeze the sauce and pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently, adding milk or broth to restore its creaminess.

Reheat:

Warm the dish in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, to ensure even heating. Avoid overheating the sauce to prevent curdling.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Lighten the Sauce: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the Parmesan slightly.
• Whole Grain Pasta: Swap regular pasta for whole grain or chickpea pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
• Lean Protein: Use chicken tenderloins or turkey breast for a leaner protein option.
• Add Vegetables: Stir in spinach, kale, or roasted red peppers for extra nutrients and color.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Date Night Dinner: Pair with a crisp white wine and a simple side salad for a romantic meal.
• Family Dinner: Serve with garlic bread and steamed vegetables for a hearty family feast.
• Potluck Party: Transfer the pasta to a casserole dish and keep it warm in the oven for easy serving.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet: Ensures enough space for cooking the chicken and combining the pasta with sauce.
• Microplane: Ideal for grating fresh Parmesan cheese and zesting citrus if desired.
• Tongs: Useful for tossing pasta in the sauce without breaking it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Any pasta shape works, though penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni are particularly great for holding the sauce.

Q: How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative and a vegan Parmesan substitute.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat gently before tossing with pasta and chicken.

Q: Is there a way to make this dish less rich?
Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half and reduce the Parmesan cheese slightly for a lighter sauce.

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
Yes, but you may need to cook them down longer to achieve the same concentrated flavor.

Q: How do I keep the chicken moist?
Sear the chicken over medium-high heat and avoid overcooking. Let it rest before slicing to lock in juices.

Q: Can I add other proteins?
Yes! Shrimp, sausage, or even grilled tofu make excellent alternatives.

Q: What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the cream sauce beautifully.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, a rich and flavorful cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta into a dish that’s both luxurious and approachable. Whether you’re cooking to impress someone special or treating yourself to a satisfying meal, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver.

The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it to suit any occasion, making it a staple in your kitchen repertoire. From its creamy sauce and aromatic herbs to the tender chicken and hearty pasta, every bite is a celebration of flavor and texture. Try it today and discover why it’s called “Marry Me Chicken Pasta”—you might just fall in love with it yourself!