Get ready to impress with this creamy, flavorful chicken pasta that’s perfect for any romantic dinner! If you’ve ever wanted a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta delivers in spades. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned to perfection, seared until golden, then bathed in a velvety heavy cream sauce that’s studded with sweet, tangy sun-dried tomatoes and infused with fragrant herbs. Each bite is a symphony of flavors and textures—the slight chew of fettuccine or penne, the juicy succulence of chicken, and the rich, silky sauce that coats everything in its luscious embrace. This recipe earned its whimsical name because people joke it’s so irresistible it might prompt a proposal, but honestly, you’ll be proposing to yourself to make it again.
From the very first forkful, you’ll discover why this dish has become a weeknight hero and a romantic dinner staple all at once. Combining accessible ingredients—like pantry staples such as garlic and dried herbs—with a few special additions like sun-dried tomatoes and freshly grated Parmesan, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between everyday cooking and something truly special. With just 15 minutes of prep, 30 minutes of cooking time, and around 600 calories per serving, it’s an intermediate-level meal that rewards every minute spent in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a dinner for someone special or simply treating yourself to something decadent after a busy day, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta is your ticket to a memorable, crowd-pleasing feast.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN MARRY ME CHICKEN PASTA
Before diving into the cooking steps, let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish so irresistible. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—from building layers of flavor to creating that dreamy creamy sauce that wraps around every strand of pasta. Here are the essentials you’ll need:
- Chicken breasts
Provides the lean protein foundation. When seasoned and seared properly, the chicken develops a golden crust and remains juicy inside, perfectly complementing the creamy sauce.
- Salt and pepper
Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and the sauce. They’re the unsung heroes that balance and enhance every other ingredient.
- Paprika
Adds a subtle warmth, mild sweetness, and a beautiful rosy hue to the chicken’s exterior, making each piece as visually appealing as it is flavorful.
- Olive oil
The primary cooking fat that helps achieve a crisp sear on the chicken and provides depth to the sauce when aromatics are sautéed.
- Garlic
Delivers a potent, aromatic punch. When minced and sautéed, garlic infuses the sauce with a savory, mouthwatering fragrance.
- Sun-dried tomatoes
Offer a concentrated burst of sweet-tart flavor and chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Chicken broth
Creates a savory base that deglazes the pan and incorporates all those fond bits from searing the chicken, enriching the sauce’s overall taste.
- Heavy cream
The backbone of the luscious sauce. It provides richness, smoothness, and body, ensuring every bite feels indulgent.
- Parmesan cheese
Brings nutty, umami goodness and also helps thicken the sauce naturally as it melts.
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
A pinch of heat that adds a subtle kick and balances the creaminess with a slight zing.
- Dried oregano, thyme, and basil
These classic Italian herbs introduce earthy, herbaceous notes that round out the sauce’s flavor profile.
- Pasta (fettuccine or penne)
Your canvas for the sauce. Its sturdy shape and texture ensure each piece is perfectly coated in the creamy mixture.
- Fresh basil leaves
Used as a garnish to bring a burst of color and bright, fresh flavor just before serving.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
A finishing touch that adds extra depth, salty tang, and an irresistible sheen to the top of the dish.
HOW TO MAKE MARRY ME CHICKEN PASTA
Now that we’ve covered the must-have ingredients, let’s walk through how to turn them into a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Follow these detailed steps, and you’ll be savoring a rich, creamy plate of pasta in no time.
1. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika, ensuring each piece is evenly coated to build flavor from the very start.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6–7 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate to rest.
3. Reduce the skillet’s heat to medium, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant but not browned.
4. Add the sliced sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, allowing their flavors to bloom.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to concentrate the flavors.
6. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), dried oregano, thyme, and basil. Stir until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and well combined.
7. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Let them simmer together for 5 minutes so the chicken absorbs those rich flavors.
8. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
9. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and sauce, and toss gently until every strand is coated in that decadent sauce.
10. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR MARRY ME CHICKEN PASTA
Serving this luscious chicken pasta is almost as fun as making it! Presentation and complementary sides can elevate the experience, whether you’re hosting a cozy date night or a casual family gathering. The vibrant colors and rich aroma will immediately invite hungry guests to the table. Here are a few ideas to make every plate shine:
- Pair with a crisp green salad: A simple arugula salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette brings a bright, peppery contrast to the creamy pasta. Top with shaved Parmesan and toasted pine nuts for extra crunch.
- Serve with garlic bread: Spread slices of a crusty baguette with herb-infused butter (garlic, parsley, and a touch of salt), then bake until golden. The bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Choose the right wine: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Noir complements the rich creaminess of the dish. The wine’s acidity or soft tannins help balance the flavors.
- Garnish with finishing touches: Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over each serving, sprinkle flaky sea salt, and add a few microgreens or additional basil leaves for a restaurant-style presentation.
HOW TO STORE MARRY ME CHICKEN PASTA
Whether you’re cooking in advance or simply want to stash leftovers, proper storage is the key to preserving that amazing flavor and creamy texture. With a few simple steps, you can enjoy this dish for days—or even weeks—while maintaining its quality and taste.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container: Once the pasta has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to a sealed container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. This prevents the sauce from absorbing undesired odors and keeps the chicken juicy.
- Freeze individual portions: If you’d like to enjoy this recipe down the road, divide it into single-serving containers and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Store sauce separately: For the best texture, consider storing the sauce apart from the pasta and chicken. Heat the sauce gently on the stovetop and then toss with freshly cooked pasta to revive its creaminess.
- Reheat with care: Warm up refrigerated or thawed portions over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it. Avoid high heat to prevent curdling.
CONCLUSION
Throughout this article, we’ve shared all the secrets behind a truly memorable Marry Me Chicken Pasta—from choosing the right ingredients and perfecting each cooking technique to plating ideas that will make your dinner feel special. You can print and save this guide for easy reference next time you’re craving something indulgent yet approachable. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or an enthusiastic beginner, these step-by-step instructions and expert tips will help you achieve restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. Remember, this richly flavored pasta is both a weeknight wonder and a showstopping centerpiece for any romantic dinner, thanks to its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant bursts of sun-dried tomato and herb.
Feel free to leave your comments, questions, or feedback below if you give this recipe a try or need help along the way. I’d love to hear how it turned out for you, any tweaks you made, or what side dishes you served alongside. Don’t forget to check out the FAQ section that follows for quick answers to common queries—everything from ingredient substitutions to reheating tips. Happy cooking, and here’s to creating delicious memories with every bite!
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Description
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta features tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs. A delicious dish that's sure to win hearts with every bite!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add sliced sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
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Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
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Reduce the heat to low and add heavy cream, stirring continuously. Add in Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), oregano, thyme, and basil. Stir until the sauce is well combined and creamy.
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Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, coating them with the sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
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Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and sauce, mixing gently to combine everything.
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Garnish with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Note
- This pasta dish got its name because it's rumored to be so delicious it could inspire a marriage proposal.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning and spice level to your taste preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a healthier option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
