Name: Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American-Italian
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 12 ounces penne pasta; 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped

When I first made this Marry Me Chicken Pasta, I didn’t expect it to become such a staple in my kitchen. One bite, and I was hooked. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet approachable—creamy, savory, with just enough spice and richness to make everyone at the table fall in love. It’s a dinner that doesn’t just feed people; it leaves an impression.

I love how this dish combines simple ingredients in a way that tastes restaurant-worthy. The creamy parmesan sauce hugs every piece of pasta, while tender, seasoned chicken adds a golden, flavorful bite to each forkful. It’s comfort food with a flair—and yes, the name isn’t just for fun. Make it once, and it might just become your signature dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This dish is perfect for weeknight meals and special occasions alike. It’s quick to put together, rich and creamy, and loaded with flavor. The savory chicken pairs beautifully with the luxurious sauce and al dente pasta. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a date night at home, it brings warmth and elegance to the table. Plus, it’s easy enough for beginner cooks but impressive enough to serve guests.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe, as they cook quickly and stay tender when seared and simmered in the creamy sauce. You can also use boneless chicken thighs for a slightly richer flavor and juicier texture. Make sure to slice the chicken into bite-sized strips or cubes to ensure even cooking and easier eating.

Options for Substitutions

Chicken: Swap with turkey or shrimp if you want a different protein.
Pasta: Penne is ideal, but rigatoni or fusilli are great alternatives that hold the sauce well.
Cream: Use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Cheese: Parmesan is classic, but Pecorino Romano adds a sharper touch.
Sun-dried tomatoes: You can use fresh cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers if you prefer.

Ingredients for This Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Chicken breasts – The heart of the dish, seasoned and seared to golden perfection.
Olive oil – For cooking the chicken and adding a silky base to the sauce.
Garlic – Freshly minced garlic brings depth and aromatic warmth.
Chicken broth – Enhances the savory flavor and forms part of the sauce.
Heavy cream – Adds richness and gives the sauce its luscious, velvety texture.
Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated is best for a creamy, cheesy finish.
Sun-dried tomatoes – Slightly sweet and tangy, they balance the creamy elements.
Italian seasoning – A simple blend that infuses the dish with herbaceous notes.
Red pepper flakes – Optional but recommended for a gentle heat kick.
Salt and pepper – To season and enhance all the flavors.
Pasta (penne) – Holds the sauce perfectly and creates a hearty meal.
Fresh basil or parsley – For garnish and a fresh finishing touch.

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown and cooked through—about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, boil a large pot of salted water. Add the penne and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water just in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 3: Make the Sauce Base

In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. Then add the sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta

Slice the cooked chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces. Add it back into the skillet, followed by the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated and the chicken is evenly distributed. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for extra creaminess.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and top with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Serve hot, with extra parmesan on the side if desired.

How Long to Prepare the Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Preparation Time

Most of the prep time is spent gathering and prepping ingredients—chopping garlic, grating cheese, and seasoning the chicken. You’ll need about 10–15 minutes for this. If you’re organized, you can do some of this while the pasta is cooking to save time.

Cooking Time

The actual cooking takes about 25–30 minutes. That includes searing the chicken, simmering the sauce, and finishing everything together. From start to finish, you’re looking at about 40–45 minutes total.

Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Use freshly grated Parmesan for a creamier sauce—it melts better and tastes fresher.
Don’t overcook the chicken. Once it’s golden and cooked through, remove it so it stays juicy.
Reserve pasta water. A splash can rescue a too-thick sauce without watering it down.
Simmer the sauce gently. Avoid boiling once the cream is in to prevent separation.
Garnish before serving. Fresh herbs or even a squeeze of lemon can brighten up the dish.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the sear on the chicken. That golden crust adds loads of flavor.
Overcooking the pasta. Al dente is key—soft pasta will break apart in the sauce.
Using pre-shredded cheese. It doesn’t melt as smoothly and can make the sauce grainy.
Not tasting the sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed before mixing everything.
Adding cream too early. Add after the broth simmers to avoid curdling.

What to Serve With Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

1. Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect companion to soak up any extra sauce.

2. Simple Green Salad

A fresh side salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.

3. Roasted Asparagus

Lightly seasoned and roasted, asparagus adds a nice crunch and freshness.

4. Steamed Broccoli

A healthy, mild side that complements the creamy pasta.

5. White Wine

A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the creaminess.

Storage Instructions

Storing Leftovers

Transfer cooled leftovers into an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to heat evenly.

Freezing

It’s not ideal for freezing due to the cream sauce, which may separate when thawed. If you must, freeze without the pasta and reheat gently, then mix with freshly cooked pasta.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories: 620
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Sugar: 4g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 780mg

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne is ideal, but you can use rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle. Choose pasta that holds sauce well.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, though fresh-seared chicken adds more flavor. If using pre-cooked, just warm it in the sauce.

Is this dish spicy?

Only mildly. The red pepper flakes add warmth, not heat. Adjust to your preference.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead, but combine with pasta just before serving for best texture.

How can I lighten the dish?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and opt for grilled chicken instead of pan-fried.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a catchy name—it’s a guaranteed dinner hit. Creamy, savory, and packed with flavor, it’s a recipe that brings comfort and a touch of elegance to your table. Whether you’re looking to impress or simply treat yourself, this dish delivers every single time.