This dish is the culinary equivalent of a love letter: layers of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes come together in a romantic embrace that’s impossible to resist. I still remember the first time I whipped up Marry Me Chicken Pasta—my kitchen was filled with the gentle sizzle of garlic hitting hot olive oil and the soft hum of fragrant cream bubbling away. By the time the Parmesan melted into the sauce, I was convinced this recipe held some kind of magic. Whether you’re planning a cozy date night or simply craving a dish that feels a little indulgent, this creamy, savory pasta has got your back. With its combination of rich heavy cream, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes, every bite feels like a warm, comforting hug.
What makes this dish so perfect for an intimate dinner at home? It strikes that sweet spot of “impressive” and “totally doable.” It’s labeled as an Intermediate recipe, but with just 15 minutes of prep, 25 minutes of cooking, and a 5-minute rest, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy plate on the table in under an hour. Each serving clocks in around 600 calories, making it satisfying without going overboard. And hey, the leftovers? Even better the next day as those flavors continue to meld overnight. So tie on your favorite apron, pour yourself a glass of white wine, and let’s dive into why this dish has earned its irresistibly romantic name.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN MARRY ME CHICKEN PASTA
Every great recipe starts with quality ingredients, and Marry Me Chicken Pasta is no exception. These items come together to build a luscious sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly seasoned pasta that feels both luxurious and homey. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Tender slices of chicken that soak up the sauce’s flavor. They provide the hearty protein base and become golden-brown pillows of deliciousness when seared.
- Salt
A simple seasoning that brings out the natural flavors of the chicken and balances the creaminess of the sauce.
- Black pepper
Adds a mild heat and earthy aroma that complements the richness of the cream and cheese.
- Olive oil
The perfect medium for searing the chicken and sautéing garlic, contributing fruity undertones to the overall flavor profile.
- Garlic cloves
Bright, fragrant garlic infuses the sauce with its signature savory depth and aroma.
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
A touch of spice that gives the sauce a gentle kick—feel free to adjust the heat to your liking.
- Chicken broth
Builds the liquid foundation of the sauce, lending savory complexity and helping to deglaze the pan for maximum flavor.
- Heavy cream
The star of the show, this component creates the luxurious, velvety texture that coats every strand of pasta.
- Sun-dried tomatoes
Their tangy sweetness cuts through the richness and adds chewy bursts of concentrated tomato flavor.
- Parmesan cheese
Melts into the sauce for a nutty, salty finish and helps thicken it to the right consistency.
- Pasta
Fettuccine or your favorite shape provides the perfect “boat” for capturing all that creamy goodness.
- Fresh basil
Bright, aromatic leaves that bring a pop of color and a refreshing finish to each bite.
HOW TO MAKE MARRY ME CHICKEN PASTA
Let’s walk through bringing this dreamy dish to life. You’ll be guided step by step, transforming simple ingredients into an unforgettable plate that’s perfect for date night or a special family dinner.
1. Season the chicken
Pat your sliced chicken breasts dry, then evenly coat them with salt and black pepper. This simple seasoning is the foundation for flavorful, juicy chicken.
2. Sear the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned chicken slices in a single layer and cook each side until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes total. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside to rest.
3. Build the flavor base
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant and the spices bloom in the oil.
4. Create the sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the liquids to reduce slightly and the flavors to meld.
5. Finish with cheese
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until fully melted and the sauce reaches a silky, creamy texture.
6. Cook the pasta
Meanwhile, boil your pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, scoop out and reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water.
7. Combine pasta and sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat every noodle, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
8. Reintroduce the chicken
Slice the rested chicken into strips and return it to the pan. Toss everything together so that each piece is enveloped in the creamy sauce.
9. Garnish and serve
Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the top just before plating, adding a bright, herbal note to every hearty forkful.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR MARRY ME CHICKEN PASTA
Bringing Marry Me Chicken Pasta to the table is half the fun, so let’s chat about presentation and pairings. Whether you’re planning a candlelit evening or a relaxed family meal, the right touches can elevate this dish from delicious to absolutely unforgettable. The rich, tomato-studded sauce looks stunning when swirled around the plate, and those pops of green basil give it a fresh, vibrant finish. To truly set the mood, consider dimming the lights slightly and arranging a simple, elegant place setting—nothing says “special” like cloth napkins and a sprig of basil beside each plate.
- Serve in warm bowls
Preheat shallow pasta bowls in the oven for a few minutes. This keeps the dish hot longer and gives it that restaurant-style flair.
- Add extra Parmesan on the side
Place a small dish of freshly grated Parmesan on the table so guests can customize the cheesiness to their liking.
- Pair with a crisp white wine
A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio cuts through the creaminess and complements the tang of sun-dried tomatoes perfectly.
- Offer garlic bread or a green salad
A side of warm garlic bread or a refreshing arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette makes for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.
HOW TO STORE MARRY ME CHICKEN PASTA
Leftovers of Marry Me Chicken Pasta are almost as good as the fresh dish—and with the right storage methods, you can maintain that delightful creaminess and depth of flavor. The key is to cool and store the pasta properly to prevent the sauce from breaking or drying out. Always let the dish come to room temperature before refrigerating, and transfer it to an airtight container to preserve moisture and prevent odors from other foods seeping in. If you’re planning to enjoy it within a few days, the refrigerator is your best friend; for anything beyond that, freezing can be a lifesaver.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Make sure the lid seals well to keep air out and flavors locked in.
- For longer storage, portion the pasta into freezer-safe bags, pressing out excess air before sealing. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- When reheating, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth. Stir gently until warmed through and the sauce regains its silky consistency.
- Avoid microwaving directly from frozen; instead, thaw first. If you must microwave, cover loosely with a lid and heat in short intervals, stirring often to promote even reheating.
CONCLUSION
We’ve taken a delicious journey through every aspect of Marry Me Chicken Pasta, from the careful selection of key ingredients to the step-by-step method that transforms simple staples into a creamy, unforgettable dish. You’ve seen how boneless, skinless chicken transforms into golden morsels, how the sauce comes together with sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan, and how fresh basil brings everything to life with a final flourish. Along the way, we explored serving suggestions—like pairing with a crisp white wine or serving in warm bowls—and dove into storage tips to keep leftovers tasting just as good. With 15 minutes of prep, 25 minutes of cooking, and a brief rest, you’ll have more than enough time to set the mood for a memorable dinner.
Feel free to print this article or save it for later so you can revisit these tips and tricks whenever you’re ready to fall in love all over again with this creamy, date-night worthy pasta. Below, you’ll find a FAQ section to tackle any questions that pop up while you’re cooking. If you decide to try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it went! Drop your comments, questions, or feedback below—whether you have a tip for making it spicier or simply want to share your own favorite twist. Your insights help our community of home cooks grow, and I can’t wait to read about your own magical Marry Me Chicken Pasta experiences.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Description
Rich and creamy, Marry Me Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a hint of spice, all tossed with al dente pasta for a truly enchanting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken slices and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
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Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and sun-dried tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
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Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to coat evenly. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
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Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet, tossing it with the pasta and sauce.
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Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Note
- The name "Marry Me Chicken" is due to the irresistible flavors that might make someone fall in love at first bite.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a unique tangy sweetness, enhancing the dish's depth.
- For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers taste even better as the flavors continue to meld overnight.
