Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta in a skillet with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Dinner You’ll Fall For

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Marry Me Chicken Pasta is one of those dishes that lives up to its name. With its creamy, flavorful sauce, tender chicken, and bursts of tangy sun-dried tomatoes, this meal has a reputation for being so good it could inspire a marriage proposal. Whether you’re whipping up a romantic dinner, feeding your family on a busy weeknight, or looking for something new and exciting to add to your recipe collection, this chicken pasta recipe is a guaranteed hit. It combines simple ingredients with indulgent flavors to create a dish that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to make.

This recipe is designed to be both practical and delicious. It comes together in one pot, meaning minimal cleanup and maximum convenience. The blend of garlic, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a sauce that is rich, decadent, and irresistibly cheesy. Plus, it’s versatile! You can customize it to suit your dietary needs, add in extra vegetables, or even swap the chicken for another protein. If you love dishes like creamy Tuscan chicken or chicken Alfredo, you’re going to fall head over heels for this one.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about making Marry Me Chicken Pasta, from the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to storage tips and variations. Get ready to make a dinner that will win hearts and satisfy taste buds.

Why Marry Me Chicken Pasta Is the Perfect Weeknight Dinner

Marry Me Chicken Pasta isn’t just another chicken dish. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and tangy, all wrapped up in a bowl of comforting pasta. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love this recipe:

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
  • One-Pot Meal: Everything cooks in one skillet, meaning less mess and fewer dishes to wash.
  • Rich and Flavorful: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs creates a sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is a hit with both adults and kids, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
  • Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to include different proteins, vegetables, or pasta types.
  • Comfort Food: It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying—everything you want in a comforting dinner.

Whether you’re looking to impress a special someone or just want a reliable recipe to add to your weekly rotation, Marry Me Chicken Pasta ticks all the boxes.

Ingredients for the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable meal. Here’s everything you’ll need, along with some notes and possible substitutions.

Main Ingredients

  • Chicken Breasts (Boneless, Skinless): About 1.5 pounds (650g), cut into bite-sized pieces. Chicken breasts are lean, tender, and perfect for this recipe. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier cut. For a shortcut, use rotisserie chicken.

Choosing the Best Chicken for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

  • Pasta: Penne, rigatoni, or spirali are ideal. These sturdy pasta shapes hold the creamy sauce well. Feel free to use any pasta you have on hand.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: ½ cup, drained and chopped. These add a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that complements the richness of the sauce. Use the ones packed in oil for the best flavor.
  • Garlic Cloves: 3-4 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic adds a savory depth that makes the sauce irresistible.
  • Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, freshly grated. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides a richer flavor than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Heavy Cream: 1 cup (150ml). This creates the luxurious, creamy sauce that coats the pasta. Double cream is also a great option.
  • Chicken Broth: 2 cups (650ml). Adds moisture and flavor to the sauce. For a quick and flavorful option, try using Chicken Bouillon Powder.
  • Olive Oil: For searing the chicken. You can also use the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes for an extra boost of flavor.

Spices and Seasonings

  • Oregano: 1 teaspoon. This classic herb pairs beautifully with the other flavors in the dish.
  • Paprika: ½ teaspoon. Adds a subtle smokiness and a hint of color.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon, optional. For a touch of heat, add more if you like things spicy.
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste. Season the chicken and the sauce to enhance all the flavors.
  • Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon. A blend of herbs like basil, thyme, and rosemary that adds depth to the sauce.
  • Fresh Basil: For garnish. It adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness.

Optional Ingredients

  • Tomato Paste: 1 tablespoon. Adds a deeper tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
  • Fresh Spinach: A handful of spinach adds color and nutrition. Stir it in at the end to wilt gently.

Step-by-Step Instructions for One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta including chicken breasts, pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese.

This recipe is simple to make, but the results are anything but ordinary. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a dish that’s sure to become a favorite.

Prep the Ingredients

  1. Dice the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season them generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Chop the Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Drain the sun-dried tomatoes and chop them into small pieces.
  3. Mince the Garlic: Peel and mince 3-4 garlic cloves.

Sear the Chicken

  1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the hot skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

Make the Sauce

  1. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add Tomato Paste: Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
  3. Pour in Broth and Cream: Add 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
  4. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir to distribute them evenly.
  5. Season the Sauce: Add 1 teaspoon of oregano, ½ teaspoon of paprika, and ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and let the sauce come to a gentle simmer.

Cook the Pasta

  1. Add the Pasta: Add 2 cups of penne or rigatoni directly to the sauce. Stir to coat the pasta evenly.
  2. Simmer: Let the pasta cook in the sauce, stirring occasionally, until it is al dente (about 10-12 minutes). If the sauce gets too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or water.

Combine and Finish

  1. Return the Chicken: Add the seared chicken back into the skillet. Stir everything together to combine.
  2. Garnish: Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped basil.
  3. Serve: Serve the pasta hot, with extra Parmesan and basil if desired.

Final Touches and Serving

  1. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to suit your preference.
  2. Add Fresh Spinach (Optional): If you’re including spinach, stir in a handful of fresh spinach leaves. Let them wilt into the hot sauce for about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Plate the Dish: Spoon the Marry Me Chicken Pasta onto plates or into bowls.
  4. Garnish: Top each serving with extra grated Parmesan, a few fresh basil leaves, and a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes for color and heat.

Tips for Making Creamy and Flavorful Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish comes out perfectly every time:

  • Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best texture and flavor, grate Parmesan fresh from a block.
  • Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken breast can dry out quickly if overcooked. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfectly juicy chicken.
  • Add Pasta Water if Needed: If the sauce gets too thick while the pasta is cooking, add a splash of reserved pasta water to thin it out without losing flavor.
  • Control the Spice: Red pepper flakes add a nice kick, but you can increase or decrease the amount depending on how spicy you like your food.
  • Let the Sauce Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer gently so the flavors meld together. Rushing this step might result in a sauce that’s too thin or lacks depth.

Easy Variations of Marry Me Chicken Pasta for Every Taste

One of the great things about Marry Me Chicken Pasta is how adaptable it is. Here are some substitutions and variations to fit different tastes and dietary needs:

Protein Variations

  • Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker option, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the sauce during the final steps.
  • Shrimp: Swap the chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist. Sear the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side and add them back to the pasta at the end.
  • Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option. They are less prone to drying out compared to chicken breasts.

Vegetarian Option

  • Mushrooms: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, meatless alternative. Portobello or cremini mushrooms work well.
  • Tofu: Use firm or extra-firm tofu, diced and seared until golden. This will provide a similar texture to chicken.
  • Vegetable Broth: Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep the dish vegetarian-friendly.

Dietary Adjustments

  • Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free. Chickpea or rice-based pastas are great options.
  • Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Use dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
  • Low-Fat: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a light cream for a lower-fat version. Keep in mind that the sauce might be less rich.

Add-Ins

  • Vegetables: Add sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
  • Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary can enhance the flavor profile.
  • Cheese: Add a sprinkle of mozzarella or a dollop of ricotta for an extra cheesy twist.

Flavor Enhancements and Pairings

Want to take your Marry Me Chicken Pasta to the next level? Here are some ideas for flavor boosts and perfect pairings:

  • Extra Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two for a more intense garlic flavor.
  • Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest just before serving adds brightness and balance to the rich sauce.

Perfect Pairings

  • Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread, breadsticks, or a crusty baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Plated Marry Me Chicken Pasta garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan, ready to eat.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta makes excellent leftovers, and with the right storage and reheating methods, it will taste just as good the next day.

Storing Leftovers

  • Refrigerate: Store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freezing: While this dish can be frozen, the creamy sauce may separate when thawed. If you do freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

  • Stovetop: Reheat the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth, cream, or milk to loosen the sauce.
  • Microwave: Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating. Add a bit of liquid if the sauce seems too thick.

Pro Tip: Avoid overheating the chicken, as it can become dry. Gentle reheating helps maintain the dish’s texture and flavor.

If you loved this recipe, here are some other chicken dishes that are sure to please:

FAQs

1. Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving, adding a bit of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.

2. What pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne, rigatoni, and fusilli work best because their shapes hold the creamy sauce well.

3. How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer. For a thinner sauce, add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water.

4. Can I make this dish without sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, you can omit the sun-dried tomatoes, but they add a unique tanginess. You can substitute with cherry tomatoes if desired.

5. Is this dish spicy?
It has a subtle heat from the red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the spice level to your preference.

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