If you’re looking for a creamy, flavorful, and utterly irresistible pasta dish, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the answer! With tender, juicy chicken, a luscious creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is so good that one bite might just earn you a marriage proposal—hence the name. Whether you’re cooking for date night, a cozy family dinner, or a special celebration, this dish never fails to impress.
This easy pasta dinner comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings while still delivering restaurant-quality flavor. From the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce to the golden-seared chicken, everything about this recipe screams comfort and indulgence.
If you’re a fan of chicken pasta recipes and want something both elegant and simple, you’re in for a treat. This recipe also works well as part of your collection of fast dinner recipes—perfect for home cooks of all levels!
Why Is It Called “Marry Me Chicken”?
The name “Marry Me Chicken” comes from the idea that this dish is so good, anyone who tastes it will instantly want to propose! The creamy, dreamy sauce, seasoned chicken, and tender pasta come together in a way that feels both indulgent and heartwarming. This dish has gone viral for a reason—it’s a perfect blend of flavors that’s simply love at first bite.
Whether you’re wooing your significant other or just making dinner for yourself, Marry Me Chicken Pasta will make you fall in love.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this romantic and delicious dish to life:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless (cut into thin strips)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (drained from oil)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for extra creaminess)
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breast strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken strips to the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Tip: Searing the chicken locks in its juices, giving it that irresistible golden crust.
2. 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.
- Drain the pasta and toss it with a little butter to keep it from sticking.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet you used for the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute to release their flavor.
- Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to deglaze the pan (scraping up any bits of flavor left from the chicken).
- Reduce the heat and add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken strips back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the chicken and pasta are fully coated in the creamy sauce.
- Let the pasta cook for another minute to absorb all those delicious flavors.
5. Serve and Garnish
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch.
- Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is a match made in heaven because it combines simplicity with luxurious flavors. The creamy sauce, enriched with Parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes, pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and al dente pasta. It’s a beautiful blend of savory, tangy, and rich flavors that come together in just 30 minutes.
The best part? You don’t need any fancy ingredients. It’s one of those favorite recipes for dinner that feels gourmet but requires minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for two or a family, it’s guaranteed to impress!
Tips for the Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Searing it quickly ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Look for tomatoes packed in oil for the best flavor. Pat them dry to avoid excess oil.
- Pasta Choices: While penne works great, feel free to use rigatoni, fettuccine, or even spaghetti.
- Extra Creaminess: Add a dollop of cream cheese or butter for an even silkier sauce.
- Heat Lovers: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Variations
- Resep Pasta Ala Italia: Add fresh basil and a splash of white wine for an Italian-inspired twist.
- Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp or salmon for a seafood version.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for extra nutrients.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to keep it keto-friendly.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 550-600
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
This dish offers a perfect balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats, making it both satisfying and nourishing.
Perfect Pairings
Marry Me Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with these sides:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad balances the richness of the dish.
- Roasted Asparagus: A simple veggie side that complements the pasta perfectly.
- White Wine: A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio enhances the creamy flavors of the sauce.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze: This dish can be frozen, but for best results, freeze the chicken and sauce separately. Reheat and toss with fresh pasta.
Final Thoughts
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a dinner recipe—it’s a dish that brings people together. Its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta make it a standout for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or just want a cozy, satisfying meal, this recipe delivers every time.
It’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular pasta dinner recipes out there. Add this to your list of favorite recipes for dinner, and get ready for rave reviews.
