Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Recipe That Will Steal Your Heart

If you’re looking for a dish that’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, look no further than Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This recipe is a reader-favorite for a reason—it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. Imagine tender penne pasta coated in a cheesy, sun-dried tomato sauce, paired with perfectly seasoned chicken. Each bite is a burst of flavor that will have you saying, “I do!”

Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is a winner. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this irresistible dish step by step.

---

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a sauce that’s rich and indulgent.
• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

---

Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To make this delicious Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Pasta:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 10 ounces penne pasta (or your favorite pasta)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil, for garnish

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add 10 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces.
2. Season the chicken with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until it’s no longer pink and cooked through.
5. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add 2 teaspoons of minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in 3 tablespoons of flour to create a paste.
4. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream.
5. Add 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Mix in 1 cup of sun-dried tomatoes, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 2 teaspoons of dried Italian seasoning.
7. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
8. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
2. Add the cooked penne pasta and toss everything together until the chicken and pasta are evenly coated in the sauce.
3. Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

---

The Origin of Marry Me Chicken Pasta

The Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe has taken the internet by storm, and for good reason. Its name alone is enough to pique curiosity—why is it called “Marry Me Chicken”? The dish is said to have earned its name because it’s so delicious that anyone who tastes it will be ready to propose! While the exact origin of the recipe is unclear, it’s believed to have been inspired by classic Italian flavors, combining creamy sauces, sun-dried tomatoes, and tender chicken.

This dish is a modern twist on traditional Italian pasta recipes, incorporating ingredients like heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes to create a rich and indulgent sauce. The addition of paprika and Italian seasoning adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile, making it a standout dish. Over time, the recipe has evolved, with home cooks and chefs alike adding their own personal touches. Some versions include spinach, artichokes, or even a splash of white wine for extra flavor.

What makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta so special is its ability to balance simplicity with sophistication. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough for a special occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a date night or a family gathering, this dish is sure to leave a lasting impression. Its popularity on social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram has only added to its allure, making it a must-try recipe for food lovers everywhere.

---

 Why Sun-Dried Tomatoes Are the Star Ingredient

One of the key ingredients that sets Marry Me Chicken Pasta apart is the use of sun-dried tomatoes. These flavorful gems add a tangy, slightly sweet, and intensely savory element to the dish. Sun-dried tomatoes are made by drying ripe tomatoes in the sun, which concentrates their flavor and gives them a chewy texture.

In this recipe, the sun-dried tomatoes are rehydrated in the creamy sauce, allowing them to infuse the dish with their rich, umami-packed flavor. They pair perfectly with the parmesan cheese and heavy cream, creating a sauce that’s both luxurious and balanced. The tomatoes also add a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing.

Beyond their taste, sun-dried tomatoes are also packed with nutrients. They’re a great source of vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants like lycopene, which has been linked to numerous health benefits. When combined with the protein-rich chicken and fiber-filled pasta, Marry Me Chicken Pasta becomes a well-rounded meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

If you’re not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes, you can substitute them with roasted red peppers or fresh cherry tomatoes. However, keep in mind that the unique flavor of sun-dried tomatoes is what gives this dish its signature taste. For the best results, use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, as they tend to have a richer flavor.

---

 Tips for Perfecting Your Marry Me Chicken Pasta

While Marry Me Chicken Pasta is relatively easy to make, a few tips and tricks can help you take it to the next level. First, always season your chicken generously with salt and pepper before cooking. This ensures that every bite is flavorful. When cooking the chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can cause the meat to steam rather than sear, resulting in less browning and flavor.

Another key tip is to use freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged grated cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and has a richer flavor. Additionally, don’t skip the step of letting the sauce simmer for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken, creating a velvety texture that clings to the pasta.

For an extra touch of elegance, garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese just before serving. The basil adds a bright, herbaceous note that complements the richness of the sauce. If you’re serving this dish for a special occasion, consider pairing it with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, to enhance the dining experience.

Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with the recipe. Add a handful of spinach for extra nutrients, or toss in some cooked bacon for a smoky twist. The beauty of Marry Me Chicken Pasta lies in its versatility, so feel free to make it your own.

---

Customizations and Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and replace the flour with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch.
• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian version.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free parmesan alternative.
• Protein Swap: Replace the chicken with shrimp or grilled tofu for a different twist.

---

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving of Marry Me Chicken Pasta:

• Calories: 646 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Protein: 41g
• Fat: 31g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Cholesterol: 145mg
• Sodium: 962mg
• Potassium: 1248mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 10g
• Vitamin A: 1260 IU
• Vitamin C: 9mg
• Calcium: 278mg

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

What Can I Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I Freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop.

---

Print

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The creamy, cheesy sauce, the tender chicken, and the burst of flavor from the sun-dried tomatoes come together to create a dish that’s truly unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or simply treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to win hearts.