Name: Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; Salt & pepper, to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; 10 oz penne pasta, cooked al dente; 3 tbsp butter; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning; Fresh basil, for garnish

Jump to Recipe

If there’s one dish guaranteed to elicit love at first bite, it’s this creamy, savory, utterly unforgettable Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. Combining juicy, pan-seared chicken, perfectly al dente penne, and a dreamy sauce laced with sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan, this meal is more than just comfort food—it’s a declaration of flavor devotion that brightens any night. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just craving an indulgent, soul-satisfying dinner at home, this recipe deserves a spot on your regular rotation.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is simple yet absolutely vital, each bringing a unique layer to the final dish. The beautiful golden chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce create both eye-catching color and complex flavor—all from kitchen staples you may already have on hand!

Chicken (1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless, cut into pieces): The heart of this dish, chicken soaks up all the rich flavors and adds satisfying protein.
Salt & Pepper (to taste): Don’t shy away from seasoning; proper seasoning is key to bringing all those wonderful ingredients to life.
Olive Oil (1 tbsp): For a beautiful sear and extra flavor when browning your chicken.
Penne Pasta (10 oz, cooked al dente): The perfect pasta shape for soaking up every drop of luscious sauce.
Butter (3 tbsp): Adds richness and depth to your sauce base.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Essential for building an aromatic, savory backbone in the sauce.
Onion (1/2 cup, finely chopped): Provides subtle sweetness and rounds out the flavors.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes (1 cup, drained & chopped): Their tangy, sweet intensity is what makes this dish memorable.
Chicken Broth (2 cups): Builds flavor in the sauce while keeping it silky and not too heavy.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): Delivers the signature creamy texture that sets this recipe apart.
Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated): Melts into the sauce, bringing salty nuttiness and incredible flavor.
Paprika (1 tsp): Lends vibrant color and a subtle smoky warmth.
Dried Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): Infuses the sauce with fragrant, herby notes.
Fresh Basil (for garnish): Brightens and freshens up every bite as a final touch.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling your favorite penne pasta in a large pot of salted water until it reaches that perfect al dente bite. The salt flavors the pasta from the inside out, enhancing every mouthful. Once the noodles are just tender, drain them and set aside for later—don’t forget to reserve a splash of pasta water, just in case you want to loosen up the sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season your chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Searing the chicken in olive oil over medium-high heat gives you those gorgeous golden edges (and all-important fond at the bottom of the pan). After six to eight minutes, your chicken should be just cooked through—succulent, never dry—ready to soak up the flavors of the sauce you’ll build in the next step.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the butter, letting it melt and mingle with all those savory pan drippings. Sauté onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, then stir in the bright, chewy sun-dried tomatoes. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking well to blend all the goodness together. Let it come up to a gentle simmer, swirling your senses with anticipation as the aroma fills your kitchen.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce

Once your sauce is bubbling gently, sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, paprika, and Italian seasoning. This is where the transformation happens: the cheese melts and binds, the spices bloom, and the sauce thickens to satiny perfection. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning—a little more salt or pepper can make all the difference.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Almost there! Fold the cooked chicken and pasta right into the skillet, tossing every piece so it’s luxuriously coated in sauce. Let everything mingle for a minute to allow the flavors to unite. Finish your Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe with a generous shower of fresh basil and extra Parmesan, then gather everyone around the table for a meal that’ll win hearts on the spot.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly torn basil leaves add a burst of color and herbal lift—scatter them liberally! For extra flair, try a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan, or even a drizzle of good olive oil. The sauces clings to everything, so garnishes do more than look pretty—they enhance each bite.

Side Dishes

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad (think arugula, spinach, or mixed baby greens) dressed simply in lemon vinaigrette. Want something warm and cozy? Serve alongside garlic bread or a rustic baguette—perfect for scooping up leftover sauce at the end!

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re looking to impress, try plating this pasta recipe in shallow bowls for that restaurant-style look, topping each portion with a dramatic basil sprig and a cascade of Parmesan. For parties, you can even serve it family-style on a big platter so everyone can help themselves. Or, twirl individual servings into pasta nests using tongs—guaranteed to wow your guests!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself sneaking bites straight out of the container!

Freezing

The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe can be frozen, though the cream sauce might separate slightly upon thawing. To freeze, portion into airtight containers and freeze up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the pasta on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce seems too thick. Stir carefully to prevent scorching, and finish with more Parmesan and basil to revive its fresh, luscious taste.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is classic for the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe, feel free to substitute rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine. Just maintain that al dente bite for maximum saucy satisfaction.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can swap the heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or unsweetened oat cream, and use a plant-based Parmesan, though the final flavor will be a little different—still creamy and delicious!

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Wilted spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli make wonderful additions. Stir them in with the chicken and pasta just before serving for extra nutrition and color.

How spicy is the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe?

It’s quite mild, so even spice-averse eaters will love it. If you enjoy a little heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or offer them tableside for a gentle kick.

What’s the best way to make this dish ahead for entertaining?

For dinner parties, prepare the sauce and chicken a few hours ahead, then cook your pasta and toss everything together just before serving. This keeps the pasta from getting over-soft and ensures the flavors are vibrant and fresh.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is a viral favorite—one forkful is all it takes to see why! It’s cozy, crowd-pleasing, and incredibly easy to make, whether for a weeknight comfort meal or a show-stopping dinner with loved ones. Give it a try and prepare to earn rave reviews around your table!

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 9 reviews

Author: Lila
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is a creamy and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your loved ones. Tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce come together to create a delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Instructions

Cook Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Make Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until softened. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and cream, then bring to a simmer.
Finish Sauce: Stir in Parmesan, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce thicken for 3-5 minutes, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
Combine & Serve: Add chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in sauce. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian