When a dish is so flavorful and comforting that it could inspire a marriage proposal, you know it's something truly special. Marry Me Chicken Pasta lives up to its name with rich, velvety cream sauce, tender seared chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta. This restaurant-quality recipe is easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for a romantic date night.
What Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a decadent pasta dish built around the famous "Marry Me Chicken" recipe—chicken breasts simmered in a luscious cream sauce infused with garlic, parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes. When paired with pasta, the dish becomes a complete and utterly satisfying meal. It’s creamy, savory, slightly tangy, and unforgettable.
Ingredients for the Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta
For the Chicken:
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2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
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¾ cup chicken broth
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained and chopped)
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
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8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta (or pasta of choice)
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Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Extra Parmesan, for topping
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
Pound the chicken breasts to even thickness. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove and let rest.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Add heavy cream, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir and simmer for 4–5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Pasta
Slice the chicken and return it to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until evenly coated in the sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes more to warm through.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Serve hot, garnished with chopped basil or parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Why Everyone Loves Marry Me Chicken Pasta
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Incredibly flavorful: Creamy, garlicky, and loaded with umami from the sun-dried tomatoes
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Romantic and cozy: Perfect for a special dinner or stay-in date night
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Simple and elegant: Easy steps, fancy results
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Satisfyingly creamy: That sauce clings beautifully to every bite of pasta
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Customizable: Add spinach, mushrooms, or swap for gluten-free pasta
Tips for Success
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Don’t overcook the chicken: Searing to golden perfection keeps it juicy and tender.
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Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and gives a richer flavor.
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Deglaze the pan well: The flavor in the browned bits adds incredible depth to the sauce.
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Adjust thickness: If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of pasta water or broth.
Variations You’ll Love
Spicy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Marry Me Chicken with Spinach
Toss in a handful of baby spinach just before serving for a pop of green.
Low-Carb Version
Serve the creamy chicken over zoodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
Bacon Lovers' Twist
Add crispy bacon bits to the sauce for a smoky finish.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
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Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
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Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
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Freezing: This creamy dish isn’t ideal for freezing as the sauce can separate.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Marry Me Chicken Pasta with:
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Garlic bread or focaccia
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A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
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A glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio
Why This Dish Might Just Get You a Proposal
This isn't just pasta—it’s a plate of love. The creamy sauce clings to every strand, the chicken is tender and flavorful, and the sun-dried tomatoes add just the right zing. It’s the kind of dish that makes people pause between bites, look up, and say, "This is amazing."
Whether you're cooking for someone special or simply want to treat yourself, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is bound to impress.
