When busy weeknights leave you yearning for something beyond takeout, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the answer to your cravings. Picture this: creamy, garlicky goodness envelops perfectly cooked chicken and al dente pasta, all topped with fresh Parmesan. It's the kind of dish that makes you feel like a culinary hero, even on the most hectic evenings.
I first encountered this beauty at a small gathering where friends brought their A-game to dinner. As aroma filled the room, I couldn't help but be drawn in by the warm scent of sun-dried tomatoes and rich cream. This dish quickly became a staple in my kitchen, combining simplicity with indulgence.
In just 40 minutes, you can serve up a meal that not only pleases the palate but also sparks joy around the dinner table. Whether you're cooking for a loved one or treating yourself to a little luxury, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is bound to impress. So, let’s get cooking and whip up a feast that might just inspire a few love declarations!
Why You'll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The rich, creamy flavors combined with perfectly cooked chicken and pasta create a dish that everyone will adore.
- Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to suit any taste.
- Plus, the beautiful presentation topped with fresh Parmesan makes it a stunning centerpiece for your dinner table.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Ingredients
• Here's everything you need to make this dreamy dish!
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta – Choose your favorite pasta shape for the perfect bite.
For the Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless) – Tender and juicy; sear for a golden crust.
- 2 tablespoon olive oil – Adds richness and helps prevent sticking.
- 2 tablespoon butter – For an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
For the Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
- 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped) – These pack a punch of flavor and color.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend that brings all the savory elements together.
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – A hint of heat to elevate the dish if desired.
- 1 cup chicken broth – Broth adds depth and enhances the overall taste.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Creates that luscious, creamy sauce everyone loves.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated) – Freshly grated for the best melting quality and flavor.
Now that you're organized with these Marry Me Chicken Pasta ingredients, it's time to dive into the cooking!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 oz pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sear the Chicken: Season the 2 chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the 4 cloves of minced garlic and 0.5 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden.
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Make the Sauce: Pour in 1 cup chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream. Stir gently while bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy—this is where the magic happens!
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Combine and Serve: Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency. Serve warm and enjoy!
Optional: Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures the flavors remain intact while keeping your creamy sauce delicious.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool the dish completely before freezing to maintain optimal texture.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to revive the creaminess of your Marry Me Chicken Pasta.
Airtight Storage: Make sure to use a tightly sealed container to avoid freezer burn and maintain the dish's rich flavors.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe and make it your own! Each twist brings a new flavor experience.
- Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap 12 oz of traditional pasta for whole wheat for an extra fiber boost while keeping that delicious flavor.
- Low-Calorie: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta for a lighter version that's fresh and veggie-packed.
- Spicy Kick: Add more than just red pepper flakes—try dicing fresh jalapeños into the dish for an exciting, spicy surprise!
- Herb-Infused: Infuse flavor by incorporating fresh basil or parsley into the sauce; it adds a burst of freshness that's simply irresistible.
- Cream Cheese Twist: For a tangy richness, stir in 4 oz of softened cream cheese along with the Parmesan. It makes the sauce even creamier!
- Mushroom Delight: Add 1-2 cups of sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for texture and an earthy depth that complements the creaminess.
- Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with sautéed tofu or chickpeas, and replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a completely plant-based version.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses; try goat cheese or feta for a unique twist that enhances the flavor profile in delightful ways.
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
When you're ready to transform a simple dinner into a full-fledged culinary experience, consider these delightful pairings that enhance every bite.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery crunch complements the creamy pasta, perfect for sopping up every last drop of sauce. It's an absolute must for any pasta night!
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and tender, this veggie brings a fresh crunch and a pop of color, balancing the richness of the chicken and cream.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and a sprinkle of Parmesan create a refreshing contrast, making it a classic pairing that elevates your meal.
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Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and roasted until perfectly tender, it adds a sophisticated touch while enhancing your dish with a hint of earthiness.
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Lemon Zest: A simple sprinkle over the pasta can elevate the dish's flavors, adding a bright, citrusy lift that keeps it vibrant and fresh.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc will cut through the creaminess of the dish, enhancing both the chicken and the sauce without overpowering.
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Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert. Its layers of coffee-soaked goodness create a delightful contrast to the savory pasta.
Serve up these delicious sides and enjoy a harmonious dining experience that makes your Marry Me Chicken Pasta shine!
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Chicken Pasta components are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights. You can cook the pasta and sear the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. After cooking, simply refrigerate the pasta and chicken in airtight containers. For the sauce, prepare the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes and combine them with the broth and cream up to 3 days ahead—just keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce over medium heat, add the chicken and pasta, and stir in freshly grated Parmesan. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To prevent your pasta from sticking together, make sure to use plenty of salted water and stir occasionally during cooking.
- When searing the chicken, let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a nice golden crust before flipping.
- For the cream sauce in Marry Me Chicken Pasta, slowly add the cheese while stirring to ensure it melts evenly and creates a smooth texture.
- Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining, as this starchy liquid can help adjust the sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pasta for Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! For this dish, I recommend using pasta shapes that hold onto the creamy sauce well, such as penne, fettuccine, or farfalle. Look for pasta that's firm to the bite (al dente) when cooked, which enhances the overall texture of the meal. Fresh pasta is a lovely option too if you're feeling adventurous—just adjust your cooking time accordingly!
How should I store leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Very simple! To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Ensure the dish has cooled before sealing to prevent condensation. This will help lock in the rich flavors and maintain the creamy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat as detailed below!
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Certainly! To freeze, first let the pasta cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, ensuring it's sealed tightly to avoid freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you're ready to serve it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on low in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to maintain the creaminess.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
No worries! If your sauce ends up too thick after cooking, you can easily adjust its consistency. First, gradually add some reserved pasta water while stirring over low heat—start with a few tablespoons and keep adding until you reach your desired creaminess. Additionally, a splash of chicken broth can also do the trick. The key is to do this slowly and keep mixing to ensure everything is well incorporated.
Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta safe for pets or those with dairy allergies?
This dish contains ingredients like heavy cream and cheese, which are not suitable for pets and may cause issues for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. If you have dietary concerns, I recommend modifying the recipe by substituting the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative, like coconut cream or cashew cream. Also, you can use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sear the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir gently while bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to meld flavors and thicken.
- Add Cheese: Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth and creamy.
- Combine and Serve: Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet along with drained pasta. Toss together, adding reserved pasta water as needed for consistency. Serve warm.
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