If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s that perfect combination of tender chicken, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta—a sensational dish with layers of flavor that just might have you planning a second date with your stove. This recipe brings together simple ingredients into a comforting meal worthy of sharing with someone special or savoring all by yourself.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe lies in a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building a sauce that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. These staples transform everyday pantry items into a luscious dish where texture and taste shine.

12 ounces penne pasta: The tubular shape holds onto the sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite is packed with creamy goodness.

1 pound chicken breasts, boneless and skinless: A lean protein that pairs beautifully with the sauce once seasoned simply with salt and pepper.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds the perfect golden sear to the chicken and creates a savory base for sautéing garlic.

4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with that beloved aromatic punch, enhancing every spoonful.
1 cup heavy cream: Brings rich creaminess to the sauce, making it irresistibly smooth and luxurious.

1 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and a subtle savory undertone that balances the cream.
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: These morsels provide a tangy sweetness and chewy texture that elevate the dish.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend that brings herbal warmth and classic Italian flavors to the sauce.

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that salty, nutty finish and extra creaminess in every bite.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the overall flavor.
Fresh basil for garnish (optional): Adds a burst of fresh, vibrant color and herbaceous aroma when sprinkled on top.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta until it’s al dente, which means it’s tender but still has just a slight bite to it. This texture is key to make sure the pasta doesn’t get mushy once it’s bathed in the creamy sauce later on. Drain it well and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes per side until it develops a golden crust and is cooked through inside. Removing the chicken from the skillet and allowing it to rest a few minutes helps retain its juices, so it stays tender and flavorful when sliced.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Lower the heat to prevent burning, then add the minced garlic directly into the skillet used for the chicken. Sautéing the garlic in those flavorful browned bits left from the chicken creates an aromatic base that makes the sauce extra special. Cook the garlic just for about a minute until it’s fragrant and gently golden.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring together to combine with the garlicky pan drippings. Next, mix in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Allow this sauce to simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly into a luscious, velvety consistency that clings to every noodle.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta

Slice the rested chicken breasts into strips and add them back into the skillet, nestling them in the luxurious sauce. Then fold in the cooked pasta, tossing everything together thoroughly so that each piece of penne is coated with that rich, tangy, and cheesy sauce. Give it a taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed for the perfect balance.

Step 6: Plate and Garnish

Serve this irresistible Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe straight onto warm plates, and if you like, generously sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the top. This final touch brightens the dish not only visually but also adds a fresh, herbal contrast to the creamy sauce.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh basil is the classic choice, lending a pop of color and refreshing aroma that perfectly complements the rich sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you might also try a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or even some crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.

Side Dishes

Because the pasta is creamy and rich, pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette offers a nice balance. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette are fantastic for sopping up any leftover sauce on the plate. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans also make lovely companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls garnished with an ample handful of fresh basil and a neat twist of cracked black pepper on top. Placing a few sun-dried tomatoes on the side of the dish accentuates the main flavor. Alternatively, layering the pasta and sliced chicken in a clear serving dish can showcase the colors and textures beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to cool it to room temperature before storing to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to slightly undercook the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy. Store the pasta and sauce together or separately in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream during reheating helps restore the creamy sauce’s silky texture. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken juicy and tender.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta in the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the sauce, you can use rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle depending on your preference. Just be sure to cook to al dente to prevent mushiness.

Is sun-dried tomato essential for this recipe?

Sun-dried tomatoes give the sauce its distinctive tang and texture, but if you don’t have them, roasted red peppers or fresh cherry tomatoes can be a good substitute, although the flavor will be slightly different.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

Yes, by substituting the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute and using a dairy-free Parmesan alternative, you can make a delicious dairy-free version of the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is cooked when it’s golden on the outside and no longer pink inside. You can check with a meat thermometer; it should register 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes! The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat it and then toss with freshly cooked pasta and sliced chicken for the best texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Trying the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is like discovering a secret comfort food that’s elegant enough for date night yet simple enough for a cozy weeknight dinner. Its creamy, flavorful sauce combined with tender chicken and perfectly al dente pasta makes it impossible not to fall in love. So why wait? Give this recipe a whirl and watch it become your new go-to dish that’s sure to impress every time.

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Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 19 reviews

Author: Noah
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Diet: Low Salt

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Description

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection and tossed with penne pasta in a rich sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. This comforting and elegant meal can be prepared in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Instructions

Cook the pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to rest before slicing.
Sauté the garlic: Reduce the skillet heat to low and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Make the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Combine chicken and pasta: Slice the rested chicken and add it to the sauce. Stir in the cooked penne pasta, coating it well with the creamy sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Serve and garnish: Plate the pasta and chicken mixture, then garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Marry Me Chicken Pasta!

Notes

You can substitute penne pasta with rigatoni, fusilli, or any other pasta shape you prefer.

If you want a lighter sauce, substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk or use a light cream alternative.
Fresh sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil will impart a richer flavor; if using dry sun-dried tomatoes, rehydrate them in hot water before chopping.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while simmering.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing and boiling
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 610 kcal
Sugar: 3 g

Sodium: 480 mg
Fat: 35 g
Saturated Fat: 15 g

Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
Trans Fat: 0.2 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g

Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 38 g
Cholesterol: 115 mg

Keywords: Marry Me Chicken Pasta, creamy chicken pasta, sun-dried tomato pasta, easy chicken dinner, Italian pasta recipe