Marry Me Chicken Pasta – Creamy, Irresistible & Easy to Make

When it comes to creating a memorable meal that captures both hearts and appetites, Marry Me Chicken Pasta reigns supreme. This creamy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish combines tender chicken, rich sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious Parmesan-infused sauce that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, family gathering, or special celebration, this recipe has a reputation for making everyone fall in love—with the food and maybe even with you. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so enchanting.

---

Why Is It Called Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

The origin of the name “Marry Me Chicken” stems from the idea that this dish is so delicious it could inspire a proposal. Its creamy texture, savory flavor profile, and restaurant-quality appeal make it a romantic choice for dinners that celebrate love and connection. The addition of pasta elevates the dish, making it hearty and comforting while still retaining its elegance.

---

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this magical dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained, and chopped)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces fettuccine or your preferred pasta
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

---

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

3. Create the Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

Next, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Simmer the sauce for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top to coat. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a few minutes to soak up the flavors. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to combine. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it to your desired consistency.

5. Garnish and Serve

Plate the pasta and chicken, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve immediately and watch as your guests fall head over heels for this irresistible dish.

this PIN FOR LATER

---

Pro Tips for Success

• Use high-quality Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds an authentic, bold flavor.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Keeping the chicken tender and juicy is key to the dish’s success.
• Add extra veggies: For a nutritional boost, stir in some fresh spinach or roasted mushrooms.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free alternative.

---

Perfect Pairings

Complete your Marry Me Chicken Pasta dinner with these complementary side dishes:

• Garlic Bread: The perfect tool to mop up every last drop of the creamy sauce.
• Caprese Salad: Light and refreshing, this classic salad balances the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts adds color and texture to the meal.

---

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (unlikely!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the chicken and sauce (without the pasta) for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm the dish in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency.

---

Variations to Try

1. Spicy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Kick up the heat by increasing the amount of red pepper flakes or adding a diced jalapeño to the sauce.

2. Low-Carb Option

Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to create a keto-friendly version.

3. Vegetarian Twist

Replace the chicken with roasted cauliflower steaks or pan-seared tofu for a vegetarian-friendly adaptation.

---

Chef’s Tips for Elevating the Dish

• Marinate the chicken: For added flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Use homemade chicken broth: This adds depth and richness to the sauce.
• Finish with a drizzle of truffle oil: A luxurious touch that enhances the dish’s overall flavor.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While fettuccine works beautifully, penne, spaghetti, or linguine are great alternatives.

2. Is there a dairy-free version of this dish?

Absolutely! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast as a Parmesan substitute.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time, but cook the pasta just before serving for the best texture.

4. How can I thicken the sauce?

If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes or stir in a slurry made of cornstarch and water.

5. Can I add wine to the sauce?

Definitely! A splash of white wine adds a delightful depth to the flavor profile.

---

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and comforting pasta, this dish has earned its reputation as a showstopper. Whether you’re looking to impress someone special or simply treat yourself to an indulgent dinner, this recipe delivers every time. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to create a dish that’s sure to win hearts and appetites alike!

Print