If you’re searching for a dish that truly wows with its creamy, comforting flavors, look no further than the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. This delicious combination of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and rich Parmesan cream sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta is an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a hearty, flavorful meal, this recipe brings together the perfect balance of taste and ease, making it one of those dishes you’ll want to keep in your repertoire forever.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe lies not only in its heavenly flavors but also in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating layers of taste and texture, from the savory seasoned chicken to the silky cream sauce, and the vibrant sun-dried tomatoes adding a subtle tang. Here’s exactly what you’ll gather:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Thinly sliced or pounded for quick, even cooking and tender bites.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for searing the chicken to a beautiful golden crust.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the chicken perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a deep, aromatic garlic flavor that’s subtle but impactful.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A classic blend that ties the Mediterranean flavors together.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Offers fresh, pungent notes that brighten the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Provides a savory base that deglazes the pan and lifts flavors.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that luscious, velvety texture that makes this pasta unforgettable.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty richness that melts beautifully into the sauce.
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped): Infuses a sweet and tart punch that balances the creaminess.
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine recommended): The perfect vehicle to soak up every bit of the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds silky smoothness and rounds out the sauce flavors.
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish): Brings a burst of freshness and color on top.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Getting the pasta just right — al dente — is key because it will continue to soak up the sauce later. After cooking, drain and set aside while you prepare your sauce and chicken.
Step 2: Prep and Season the Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry and season them well with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. These simple seasonings lock in flavor and create a savory base that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chicken and sear 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. This step develops a mouthwatering crust that adds texture and depth. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about a minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up those flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom — these are pure flavor gold. Slowly stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens to a rich, creamy consistency.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce for another 2 to 3 minutes to soak up those luscious flavors. Finally, toss in your cooked pasta and stir everything until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and bright herbal notes.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley are the perfect finishing touch. They add a fresh, vibrant flavor and make the dish look irresistibly appetizing. A little extra Parmesan grated on top never hurts, either!
Side Dishes
This creamy chicken pasta pairs wonderfully with sides that add crunch or freshness. A crisp green salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette or some warm, garlicky bread to mop up the sauce makes the meal feel perfectly balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant dinner, serve this pasta in shallow bowls and sprinkle chopped nuts or a drizzle of good quality olive oil on top. You could also plate it alongside roasted veggies for color contrast. Presentation matters and can elevate this already stunning dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the garnish separate to maintain freshness. When you’re ready, it’s like having a ready-made, delicious meal waiting for you.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers, but it’s best to freeze the pasta and sauce separately from the chicken to preserve the texture. Use freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months for the best quality.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the pasta and sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream helps loosen the sauce if it thickens up too much. Reheat the chicken carefully to avoid drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and richer flavor, making the dish even more succulent. Just adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked.
What pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne, fettuccine, or any pasta with a bit of surface texture are excellent choices since they hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative to adapt the sauce. The flavors will shift slightly but still be delicious.
Is there a way to add some heat?
Definitely! Stir in red pepper flakes when making your sauce for a gentle spicy kick that complements the creamy richness.
How long does this recipe take from start to finish?
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe usually takes about 35 minutes total—10 minutes prep and 25 minutes cooking—which makes it perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe, it will become a go-to for cozy dinners and impressing guests alike. The blend of creamy Parmesan sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes is pure magic on a plate. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, turn on some music, and enjoy making this delicious dish—your taste buds will thank you!
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
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a savory sun-dried tomato and Parmesan cream sauce, served over perfectly cooked pasta and garnished with fresh basil or parsley. This easy stovetop meal blends Italian-inspired flavors into a comforting main course that’s perfect for a romantic dinner or family meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced or pounded thin)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
- 1 tablespoon butter
Pasta and Garnish
- 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside for later use.
- Season and Sear Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and cover to keep warm.
- Sauté Garlic and Deglaze: In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom.
- Make the Sauce: Add the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Simmer Chicken in Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the sauce. Allow them to simmer together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes so the chicken soaks up the flavors of the sauce.
- Toss Pasta and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the creamy sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier result.
- Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.
