If you are looking for a creamy, flavor-packed pasta dish that feels both indulgent and effortless, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is exactly what you need. Combining tender chicken pieces, al dente penne, and a rich parmesan cream sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes and aromatic garlic, this dish brings together comforting textures and bold flavors in every bite.

This pasta is inspired by the viral Marry Me Chicken, a dish so delicious it’s said to inspire marriage proposals after just one bite. The addition of pasta makes it a complete meal, perfect for busy weeknights or romantic dinners at home. Whether you’re serving it to impress someone special or simply want a restaurant-quality dinner with minimal fuss, this recipe delivers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of creamy chicken pasta recipes out there, but few match the balanced flavor profile of Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Here’s why this dish stands out:

• Balanced Flavor: Creamy parmesan sauce is cut with the tangy pop of sun-dried tomatoes, creating a rich but not overwhelming taste.
• Easy Yet Impressive: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but elegant enough for guests.
• Customizable: You can easily swap the pasta type, add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or adjust the heat with red pepper flakes.
• Restaurant Quality at Home: Save money by recreating a decadent pasta dish with everyday ingredients right in your kitchen.

Preparation Phase and Essential Tools

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the right tools to ensure a smooth process.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large Skillet: For cooking chicken and preparing the sauce in a single pan.
• Pasta Pot: To cook penne or your preferred pasta.
• Cutting Board and Knife: For cutting chicken into even pieces.
• Whisk: To blend the creamy sauce smoothly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.

Preparation Tips

• Pre-Chop and Measure Ingredients: This makes cooking seamless and stress-free.
• Room Temperature Chicken: Ensures even cooking and prevents tough, dry chicken.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Pre-minced garlic can lack the punchy flavor that balances the creaminess.
• Drain Sun-Dried Tomatoes Well: Excess oil can make the sauce greasy.

Ingredients List

For the Chicken Pasta

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 10 ounces penne pasta
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce

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

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1 – Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta until just al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside, tossing with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2 – Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3 – Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, ensuring the mixture stays smooth. Add the parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce. Stir in the drained sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 4 – Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Toss everything to coat in the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is infused with flavor. Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a hearty, creamy dish that works equally well for intimate dinners, family meals, or even special celebrations. How you serve it can enhance both its visual appeal and its overall dining experience.

• Garnish for Freshness: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil across the top to brighten the rich, creamy sauce. Grated parmesan adds an extra punch of umami.
• Family-Style Serving: Serve directly from the skillet at the table for a rustic, comforting presentation. It invites diners to help themselves, perfect for casual gatherings.
• Plated Elegance: For date nights or dinner parties, twirl portions of pasta into elegant nests on individual plates. Top each serving with a few sun-dried tomato strips and a basil leaf for color.
• Pair with Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc balances the creamy richness, while a light Pinot Noir complements the dish without overwhelming it.
• Make it a Complete Meal: Adding a light salad or crusty bread makes the meal feel restaurant-worthy, with the added benefit of soaking up every drop of sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this dish is straightforward, a few missteps can affect the final result. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your Marry Me Chicken Pasta comes out perfect every time.

1. Overcooking the Chicken

Dry chicken is the fastest way to compromise the dish’s creamy indulgence. Use medium-high heat to sear the chicken until golden brown, then remove it from the pan as soon as it’s cooked through. Chicken should register 165°F internally.

2. Skipping the Roux Step

The flour and butter combination creates the base for a velvety sauce. Skipping this step results in a thinner, less cohesive sauce that may split. Take your time whisking the flour into the butter before adding the liquids.

3. Adding Cold Cream to Hot Liquid

Always bring cream to room temperature before adding it to the pan. Cold dairy can cause the sauce to curdle. Stir continuously to help the sauce emulsify smoothly.

4. Over-Salting

With parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes, the sauce already carries a natural saltiness. Taste the sauce before adding extra salt, and adjust carefully.

5. Using the Wrong Pasta

While penne works well, certain shapes hold the sauce better than others. Avoid overly thin pasta like angel hair, which won’t stand up to the thick sauce.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta

1. Balance the Flavors

The dish relies on a delicate balance between creamy richness and tangy brightness. The sun-dried tomatoes cut through the sauce’s heaviness, but if you want more acidity, a splash of white wine or lemon juice can brighten it even further.

2. Achieve Ideal Sauce Thickness

The sauce should coat the back of a spoon but still flow when drizzled. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a few extra minutes to reduce.

3. Customize the Add-Ins

This pasta is highly versatile. Consider these options to make it your own:

• Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach at the end for extra color and nutrition.
• Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for earthy depth.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Add heat if you enjoy a slight kick.
• Grilled Chicken: Use grilled chicken instead of skillet-seared for smoky flavor.

4. Choose the Right Pasta

Penne holds sauce well, but you can also experiment with:

• Rigatoni: The wide tubes catch creamy sauce perfectly.
• Fusilli: Spirals trap small bits of sun-dried tomatoes and cheese.
• Fettuccine: Flat noodles provide more surface area for rich sauce.

Side Dish Recommendations

A rich pasta dish like Marry Me Chicken Pasta pairs best with simple, fresh sides. These options provide contrast in both texture and flavor.

1. Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for mopping up extra sauce.

2. Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a cool, tangy contrast.

3. Roasted Broccoli

Tossed with olive oil and lemon zest, roasted broccoli offers a slightly bitter, caramelized note to balance the rich pasta.

4. Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella with a balsamic drizzle provide bright, acidic relief.

5. Creamy Polenta

For a double comfort food pairing, serve creamy parmesan polenta alongside.

6. Grilled Asparagus

The slight bitterness of asparagus complements the creamy, savory sauce.

7. Spinach and Arugula Salad

Tossed with lemon vinaigrette, this light salad provides a peppery, refreshing contrast.

8. Tomato Bruschetta

Crispy bread topped with fresh tomato, garlic, and basil brings a bright, zesty element to the meal.

Serving Suggestions

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also visually appealing with its creamy sauce, pops of sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil garnish. How you serve this dish can elevate the entire dining experience.

Family-Style Presentation

Serve the pasta directly from the skillet or transfer it to a wide, shallow serving dish. This rustic presentation encourages guests to help themselves, perfect for casual family dinners or laid-back gatherings with friends.

Plated for Elegance

For a more refined approach, portion the pasta onto individual plates. Use tongs to swirl the pasta into elegant mounds, ensuring each plate has an even amount of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and sauce. Top with freshly grated parmesan and a basil sprig for a restaurant-quality touch.

Garnish for Extra Flavor

Garnishes bring both visual appeal and bright, fresh flavor to this rich pasta dish. Consider:

• Fresh basil leaves, torn or whole
• Extra parmesan cheese
• A light drizzle of quality olive oil
• Cracked black pepper
• Red pepper flakes for a subtle heat boost

Pairing with Wine

The rich cream sauce pairs beautifully with:

• Chardonnay: A fuller-bodied white wine with enough acidity to cut through the richness.
• Pinot Grigio: Crisp and light, it balances the creamy sauce.
• Pinot Noir: For red wine lovers, this light-bodied red offers a gentle contrast without overwhelming the dish.

Ideal Occasions

• Date Night Dinners
• Anniversary Celebrations
• Sunday Family Meals
• Impressive Dinners with Guests

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though Marry Me Chicken Pasta is fairly simple, a few common mistakes can impact the final result. Here’s how to avoid them.

Overcooking the Chicken

Chicken breast can dry out quickly if overcooked. Searing the chicken over medium-high heat for just the right amount of time ensures juicy, tender bites. Use a thermometer if needed and aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Skipping the Roux

The butter and flour mixture (roux) is essential for creating a stable, velvety sauce. Skipping this step or rushing it can lead to a thin, uneven sauce that doesn’t coat the pasta properly.

Adding Cold Cream

Always allow heavy cream to come to room temperature before adding it to the hot pan. Cold cream can shock the sauce, causing it to break or curdle. Stir constantly to maintain a smooth texture.

Forgetting to Taste the Sauce

With parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes already adding salt, it’s crucial to taste the sauce before adding extra salt. Adjust gradually to avoid oversalting.

Using the Wrong Pasta

While penne works well, thinner pasta like spaghetti or angel hair may not hold the rich sauce effectively. Stick with short, sturdy shapes like:

• Penne
• Rigatoni
• Fusilli

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Balance the Flavors

This dish is all about balance — creamy sauce, tangy tomatoes, and savory parmesan. If the sauce tastes too rich, a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of white wine can brighten the flavors.

Control Sauce Thickness

The sauce should lightly coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a minute or two longer.

Customize to Taste

You can easily tailor the dish to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Add spinach or kale for extra greens.
• Stir in sautéed mushrooms for earthy depth.
• Add crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat.
• Substitute chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat.

Best Pasta Choices

If you want to experiment beyond penne, these pasta shapes also work beautifully:

• Rigatoni: Holds the creamy sauce inside and out.
• Fusilli: Twists trap bits of tomato and cheese.
• Farfalle: Adds a playful shape while holding plenty of sauce.

Side Dish Recommendations

A creamy pasta dish benefits from light, fresh sides to balance the richness. Here are eight perfect options:

1. Garlic Bread
   • Crunchy, buttery, and perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
2. Caesar Salad
   • Crisp romaine with creamy dressing offers cool contrast.
3. Roasted Broccoli
   • Caramelized edges and bright lemon zest add balance.
4. Caprese Salad
   • Juicy tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a fresh, tangy side.
5. Grilled Asparagus
   • Slightly bitter asparagus complements the creamy sauce.
6. Spinach and Arugula Salad
   • Light vinaigrette and peppery greens cleanse the palate.
7. Tomato Bruschetta
   • Bright tomatoes, garlic, and balsamic enhance the Italian flavors.
8. Creamy Polenta
   • Soft, cheesy polenta doubles down on comfort while complementing the sauce.

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Recipe Tips, Storage, Reheating, FAQs, and Conclusion

Recipe Tips and Variations

One of the reasons Marry Me Chicken Pasta has become so popular is its versatility. Whether you want to adjust the flavor profile, lighten up the sauce, or make it suitable for different diets, there are plenty of ways to customize this dish without losing its signature charm.

Swap Proteins

• Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless thighs for richer flavor and extra juiciness.
• Shrimp: For a seafood twist, sauté shrimp until just cooked and add them at the end.
• Tofu: For a vegetarian option, pan-fry cubes of firm tofu until golden.

Adjust the Heat

• If you enjoy spicy pasta dishes, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic or stir them into the sauce.
• For a milder version, skip the paprika entirely.

Add Vegetables

• Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach at the very end until just wilted.
• Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the garlic for extra umami.
• Roasted Red Peppers: Add strips of roasted red pepper for sweetness and color.

Lighten Up the Sauce

• Substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Use low-fat parmesan if you want to cut back on some of the richness.

Gluten-Free Option

• Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour for the roux.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

Properly stored leftovers taste just as good the next day, making this dish perfect for meal prep.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months, but the sauce may slightly separate upon reheating.

Reheating Tips

• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to a skillet and gently reheat the pasta over medium heat, stirring frequently.
• Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval.
• Avoid High Heat: High heat can cause the cream sauce to separate, so always reheat gently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is it called Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

The original Marry Me Chicken recipe earned its name because the dish is so delicious, people joke that it could inspire a marriage proposal. Adding pasta makes the dish even more irresistible.

Can I make this dish without heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may be slightly thinner. If you use milk, you may need to add a bit more parmesan or a small amount of cream cheese for richness.

What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

• Cherry Tomatoes: Halved and sautéed until softened.
• Roasted Red Peppers: For a sweeter, slightly smoky option.
• Sundried Tomato Paste: For concentrated tomato flavor without texture.

Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta spicy?

The recipe has a mild warmth from paprika, but it is not overly spicy. For heat lovers, add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.

What pasta works best for creamy sauces?

• Penne: Its ridges hold sauce well.
• Rigatoni: The larger tubes catch chunks of chicken and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Fusilli: Spirals hold the creamy sauce in every twist.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve. Combine everything when reheating to avoid overcooked pasta.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

• Substitute dairy-free butter, unsweetened oat or almond cream, and nutritional yeast for parmesan. Use gluten-free flour for the roux.

What wine pairs best with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

• Chardonnay: Rich enough to complement the sauce.
• Pinot Grigio: Crisp and refreshing.
• Light Pinot Noir: A delicate red that won’t overpower the dish.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Boneless, skinless thighs work well and provide more flavor and moisture than breasts.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

• Let it simmer for an extra minute or two to reduce.
• Add a bit more parmesan cheese, which acts as a natural thickener.
• Stir in a slurry made from cornstarch and water if needed.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a catchy name — it is a beautifully balanced dish that brings together creamy parmesan sauce, savory chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta into one irresistible meal. Whether you are cooking for a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe fits the bill.

Its versatility allows you to customize the dish to your preferences, and its elegant presentation makes it feel far more special than the simple ingredients suggest. With a few handy tips and some attention to detail, you will have a pasta dish that is sure to impress — maybe even enough to inspire a proposal.

Explore more creamy pasta recipes in our collection for new twists on comforting favorites. If you try this Marry Me Chicken Pasta, leave a comment, rate the recipe, and share it with fellow pasta lovers.