If you are searching for a dish that combines creamy indulgence with vibrant flavors, the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. This heavenly blend of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and luscious cream sauce envelops perfectly cooked penne pasta in a way that is as comforting as it is impressive. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or aiming to dazzle guests, this recipe hits all the right notes for a truly unforgettable meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient contributes to a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the tender chicken seasoned just right to the subtle tang of sun-dried tomatoes and the richness of Parmesan cheese, every component plays a vital role.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed: A tender protein base that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 1 tsp sea salt: Enhances every other ingredient by bringing out their natural tastes.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds a warm, subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the chicken.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Gives a gentle depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Provides just the right amount of gentle heat and complexity.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Essential for crisping up the chicken and sautéing the aromatics.
- 14 oz penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce.
- Water for boiling: To cook the pasta al dente, lending a perfect bite.
- 2 tbsp salted butter: Adds richness and helps mellow the sharpness of the onions and garlic.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: For that irresistible fragrant punch that fills the kitchen.
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced: Softens to a sweet bite and layers flavor beautifully.
- ¼ cup dry white wine: Creates a subtle tang and lifts the sauce with complexity.
- ¼ cup chicken stock: Deepens the sauce’s savoriness and adds moisture.
- ⅔ cup sun-dried tomatoes: The star ingredient with concentrated, slightly sweet, and tangy bursts.
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated: Adds a sharp, nutty finish and helps thicken the sauce.
- 3 cups baby spinach leaves: Offers a fresh, vibrant green contrast and nutritional boost.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: For a pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness at the end.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a playful kick if you like a little heat.
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. Cooking the penne pasta until al dente should take just about 10-12 minutes. This bite-perfect texture will hold up beautifully when mixed with the creamy sauce later.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
Toss the cubed chicken generously with sea salt, paprika, onion powder, and black pepper. Heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the chicken for roughly 8 minutes until each piece is golden and cooked through. This quick sear builds the deep, savory personality so necessary for a standout dish.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Using the same skillet, melt the salted butter and add thinly sliced red onions. Sauté them for about 3 minutes until softened and translucent. Adding the minced garlic last, cook it just for 30 seconds to release its incredible fragrance without burning it.
Step 4: Deglaze and Build the Sauce
Pour in the dry white wine and chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift the flavorful browned bits left from the chicken. Let this simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce the liquid slightly. Then, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and continue cooking for another couple of minutes to infuse their robust flavor.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Lower the heat and pour the heavy cream into the skillet. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes silky smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. This part makes the dish irresistibly luscious and comforting.
Step 6: Combine Spinach, Chicken, and Pasta
Stir in the baby spinach leaves, allowing them to wilt gently in the warm sauce. Return the seared chicken pieces and cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly so that each bite is coated with the creamy, flavorful sauce.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and, if you like a bit of spice, some crushed red pepper flakes. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the full experience of this classic Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley adds a lovely herbal note and vibrant green color that brightens the dish visually and in taste. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes offers an exciting contrast for those who want to amp up the flavor profile with gentle heat.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables for a balanced and wholesome meal. Garlic bread on the side can also be a delicious accompaniment to soak up any extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fancy touch, serve the pasta in wide shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce and colorful toppings beautifully. Adding a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving can elevate the flavors even more and impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing so it stays fresh without becoming soggy.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers by placing them into freezer-safe containers. Keep in mind that the cream sauce may separate slightly upon thawing, so freezing is best if consumed within 1 month.
Reheating
When ready to reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir often and, if the sauce thickened too much, add a splash of cream or chicken stock to bring back that creamy texture effortlessly.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually fantastic for this recipe, as their slightly higher fat content keeps the chicken extra tender and flavorful.
What can I substitute for white wine in the recipe?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can replace it with additional chicken stock mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to maintain the sauce’s balanced acidity.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by swapping regular penne for gluten-free pasta varieties. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results.
Can I add vegetables to the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Definitely! Vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes can be sautéed along with the onions to add more color and nutrition without overpowering the dish.
How spicy is this dish, and can I adjust it?
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is mild by default. You can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to suit your preferred heat level.
Final Thoughts
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe truly has magic in every bite, blending creamy, tangy, and savory notes into a dish that feels like a warm embrace. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own go-to for special dinners or cozy nights at home. Once you do, you might just find yourself “marrying” this recipe forever.
Print
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful one-pan dish featuring tender seasoned chicken, al dente penne pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach all combined in a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Ready in 30 minutes, this comforting meal offers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy notes, ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner for four.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Pasta
- 14 oz penne pasta
- Water for boiling
Sauce and Vegetables
- 2 tbsp salted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup dry white wine
- ¼ cup chicken stock
- ⅔ cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 3 cups baby spinach leaves
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.
- Season & Sear the Chicken: Toss the cubed chicken with sea salt, paprika, onion powder, and black pepper to evenly coat. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 8 minutes, flipping occasionally until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Using the same skillet, melt the salted butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced red onion and sauté for 3 minutes or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Deglaze & Build the Sauce: Pour in the dry white wine and chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes to let their flavor infuse the sauce.
- Add Cream & Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add Spinach & Combine Everything: Add the baby spinach leaves to the skillet, stirring until they wilt. Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat evenly in the creamy sauce.
- Serve & Garnish: Remove from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and optional crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Serve the dish hot and enjoy your delicious Marry Me Chicken Pasta!
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier result.
- If dry white wine is unavailable, use extra chicken stock or a splash of lemon juice.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness—choose oil-packed ones for richer flavor.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit them for a mild dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
