Introduction

Some recipes are so delicious that they spark unforgettable moments. Marry Me Chicken Pasta is one of those meals—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s the kind of dish that can make anyone fall in love with the first bite!

Marry Me Chicken Pasta with creamy sauce, tender chicken, and pasta

This creamy chicken pasta combines juicy, seasoned chicken with a savory Parmesan sauce and sun-dried tomatoes for a hint of tangy sweetness. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two or serving a comforting meal for family and friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special and how you can recreate it in your kitchen!

What Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

The name “Marry Me Chicken” originated from a dish that was so good, someone joked that it could lead to a marriage proposal. Over time, food lovers took this beloved recipe and turned it into a creamy pasta dish, making it even more irresistible.

This recipe is:
✔ Rich, creamy, and absolutely satisfying.
✔ Easy to make in under an hour.
✔ A perfect balance of flavors—savory, slightly tangy, and cheesy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter

For the Pasta & Sauce:

8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine work best)
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Seared chicken breasts for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
Remove from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Making creamy sauce for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

In the same skillet, sauté garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add sun-dried tomatoes and stir.
Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan.
Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning.
Simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Slice the cooked chicken into strips.
Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce.
Toss everything together until fully coated.
Adjust consistency by adding reserved pasta water if needed.

Pro Tips & Variations

✔ Want extra richness? Add cream cheese or extra Parmesan.
✔ Prefer a lighter version? Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
✔ Love heat? Increase red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
✔ No sun-dried tomatoes? Use cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers.
✔ Need a dairy-free option? Swap heavy cream with coconut milk.

What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This dish pairs beautifully with:

Garlic bread – Perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
Roasted vegetables – Asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini add a fresh contrast.
A simple side salad – A crisp green salad with balsamic dressing balances the richness.

For dessert, check out our best dessert recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s texture.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and work just as well.

3. What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?

Fettuccine, penne, or linguine hold the sauce best, but any pasta works.

4. Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

The sauce may separate when frozen, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly while stirring.

5. How can I make this vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try This Recipe

Plated Marry Me Chicken Pasta with creamy sauce and chicken slices

If you’re looking for a creamy, flavorful, and easy-to-make pasta dish, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect choice. It’s:
✔ Quick and simple—perfect for any occasion.
✔ Rich and creamy with the perfect balance of flavors.
✔ A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

💬 Have you tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments below!