Looking for a dish that’s sure to impress? This Marry Me Chicken Pasta isn’t just a recipe—it’s a love story on a plate. With tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luxuriously creamy sauce, this one-pan pasta dinner is packed with flavor and charm. Whether you’re planning a romantic meal or treating the family, this dish is your new go-to for wow-worthy dinners. Let’s dive into how to make it unforgettable.
What Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavor-loaded pasta dish made with juicy chicken breast, a savory garlic-onion base, and a rich sauce featuring Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and a hint of spice. It earned its playful name because it’s so good, it might just inspire a proposal! It’s cozy, elegant, and ridiculously delicious.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Here’s everything you need to make the magic happen:
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- ½ tsp each: Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Substitutions & Variations
Love the base recipe but want to switch things up? Try these:
- Pasta: Use gluten-free or whole wheat pasta.
- Chicken: Swap for boneless chicken thighs, shrimp, or even tofu.
- Cream: Use half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free version.
- Cheese: Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a twist.
- Tomatoes: Sub with roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Step-by-Step
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil a large pot of salted water.
- Cook the pasta until al dente, following the package.
- Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté the Aromatics & Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and cook until soft, 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and butter; cook until fragrant.
- Add chicken and season with Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Sauté 4-5 minutes until chicken is golden and cooked through.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in the heavy cream and reserved pasta water.
- Stir in Parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Simmer 3-4 minutes, until sauce slightly thickens.
4. Combine & Serve
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
- Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with fresh basil.
- Serve hot, with extra Parmesan on the side.
Pro Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Use freshly grated Parmesan—it melts better and has richer flavor.
- Don’t skip the pasta water—it makes the sauce silky and helps it stick.
- Cook pasta just before combining—it absorbs the sauce best when hot.
- Taste as you go—adjust salt, pepper, and spice to your liking.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta: Go for al dente for best texture.
- Skimping on seasoning: Bold flavors make this dish shine.
- Using pre-shredded cheese: It won’t melt as well as freshly grated.
- Skipping the simmer: Letting the sauce simmer gives it depth and richness.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This dish is a showstopper on its own, but pairing it well completes the experience:
- Side salad: A crisp arugula or Caesar salad balances the creaminess.
- Garlic bread: Mop up that dreamy sauce with crusty bread.
- Wine pairing: A glass of Chardonnay or sparkling rosé pairs beautifully.
Gorgeous Presentation Ideas
- Serve in shallow pasta bowls with a swirl of sauce on top.
- Garnish with basil ribbons, cracked pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Top with microgreens or parsley for restaurant-style flair.
FAQs About Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Q: Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. You can prep the sauce and store it in the fridge for 1–2 days. Reheat gently and add cooked pasta before serving.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Cream-based sauces may separate when frozen. It’s better to refrigerate leftovers and consume within 48 hours.
Q: What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
Substitute with cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a similar tangy-sweet vibe.
Q: Can I make it spicier?
Absolutely! Increase red pepper flakes or toss in chopped jalapeños.
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Final Thoughts
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s a recipe that delivers comfort, flavor, and a little romance in every bite. It’s easy enough for a weeknight and elegant enough for date night. Follow this guide, make it your own, and get ready for compliments. Who knows? You might just get a proposal at the dinner table.
Happy cooking—and may your pasta always be creamy and your chicken perfectly seasoned!
Marry Me Chicken Pasta: The Irresistible Dinner That Wins Hearts
Ingredients
- 8 oz dried pasta of choice
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup onion finely chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 Tablespoon butter
- 1 pound chicken breasts cut into bite-size pieces
- ½ teaspoon EACH Italian seasoning smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- Basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Add butter and chicken, season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, simmer until sauce thickens.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and cooked pasta, toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish with basil leaves and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Adjust seasoning to taste.
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