Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe Perfect for Easy Dinners

The creamy, dreamy combination of tender chicken and luscious pasta in a rich, flavorful sauce—this Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is the kind of dish that’s sure to win hearts. I remember the first time I made this for my family; it instantly became a household favorite. The aroma alone had everyone gathering around the table, and by the time the first bite hit, there was nothing but silence and smiles. If you’re in search of a dinner recipe that’s both simple and unforgettable, you’re in the right place!

Perfect for a cozy date night, a family dinner, or even a quick weeknight meal, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious. The creamy sauce is elevated with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan, creating the ultimate comfort food. Best of all, it’s a one-pan masterpiece that’s quick to prepare but feels like a restaurant-quality meal. Ready to make your loved ones swoon? Let’s dive into the details!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy evenings.
• Simple Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy—most of the ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find at your local store.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving picky eaters, pasta lovers, or someone special, this dish is always a hit.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The creamy sauce infused with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan makes every bite irresistible.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required, which is always a win in my book!

What makes this recipe stand out? The balance of flavors. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy depth, while the cream brings everything together in a silky, indulgent sauce. Plus, the chicken is seared to golden perfection, giving it a savory, satisfying bite.

I’ve tested this recipe countless times, and let me tell you—it’s foolproof. It’s the kind of dish that feels special without being complicated, and honestly, it’s hard not to fall in love with it. Trust me, after one bite, you’ll understand why it’s called “Marry Me Chicken Pasta.”

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best. Slice them thin for even cooking.
• Olive Oil: For searing the chicken and sautéing the garlic.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds incredible aroma and flavor.
• Chicken Broth: Adds depth to the sauce. Low-sodium is a good choice to control saltiness.
• Heavy Cream: The base of the creamy sauce. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Packed with flavor, these are a must for that tangy punch.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce and adds a nutty, savory flavor.
• Pasta: I prefer fettuccine, but feel free to use any pasta shape you love.
• Salt and Pepper: To season the chicken and the sauce to taste.
• Fresh Basil: A handful of basil leaves for garnish adds freshness and color.

You probably have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already, and the rest can be easily picked up during a quick grocery run. If needed, you can swap the heavy cream for coconut cream to make it dairy-free or try gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten allergies.

Equipment Needed

• Large Skillet: A deep, nonstick skillet works best for cooking the chicken and sauce.
• Pot for Pasta: You’ll need a medium-sized pot to boil the pasta.
• Tongs: Ideal for flipping the chicken and tossing the pasta in the sauce.
• Cutting Board and Knife: For preparing the chicken, garlic, and basil.
• Grater: To freshly grate the Parmesan cheese.

If you don’t have a large skillet, you can use a Dutch oven. Just make sure it’s wide enough to accommodate the pasta when you combine everything.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add more olive oil if needed, then sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
5. Combine and Serve: Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet. Toss in the cooked pasta, ensuring everything is coated in the sauce. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.

Pro Tip: If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up. This trick also helps the sauce cling better to the pasta.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Sear the Chicken Properly: Avoid overcrowding the skillet so the chicken gets a nice golden crust.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan and minced garlic make a world of difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better and doesn’t get mushy when tossed in the sauce.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasoning of the sauce to your liking before combining it with the pasta.

These small adjustments can elevate your dish from good to unforgettable!

Variations & Adaptations

• Low-Carb Option: Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter version.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.
• Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a hearty meatless option.

Feel free to experiment with other add-ins like spinach, mushrooms, or even a splash of white wine in the sauce for extra depth.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this dish immediately for the best flavor. It’s perfect on its own, but a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad pairs beautifully. For beverages, a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon is a great choice.

To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each serving of Marry Me Chicken Pasta is rich in protein and calcium, thanks to the chicken and Parmesan. While it’s indulgent, the creaminess is balanced by the tangy sun-dried tomatoes, which are a great source of antioxidants.

For those watching their carbs, the recipe can be easily adapted with low-carb pasta or veggie noodles. It’s proof that comfort food can be satisfying and nourishing!

Conclusion

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is everything you want in a dinner—easy, comforting, and downright delicious. Whether you’re looking to impress a loved one or treat yourself to something special, this dish delivers every time.

What I love most is how customizable it is. You can tweak it to suit your dietary needs or spice it up with extra herbs and seasonings. It’s a recipe you’ll want to make over and over again.

So, what are you waiting for? Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—it’s too good to keep to yourself!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs work just as well and add a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as they may take slightly longer to cook through.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving.

What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?

Fettuccine is my go-to, but penne, linguine, or even rigatoni work great too. Use whatever you have on hand!

Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

The sauce freezes well, but I recommend cooking fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve. Store the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers make a great alternative!

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