I first tried making Marry Me Chicken Pasta on a busy weeknight when I wanted something that felt fancy but wasn’t complicated. As soon as the chicken hit the pan and the sun-dried tomatoes sizzled, the whole kitchen smelled incredible.
The creamy parmesan sauce comes together in minutes, coating the tender chicken and pasta in rich, comforting flavor.
Every bite is perfectly balanced — the tangy sweetness of the sun-dried tomatoes, the buttery creaminess of the sauce, and the savory chicken all come together in a way that feels indulgent without being overwhelming.

It’s become one of my go-to recipes for when I want to impress someone (or just treat myself). The best part?
It’s simple enough to make on a weeknight, but delicious enough that it could easily be the star of a special dinner.
Whether you’re cooking for a loved one, hosting friends, or just craving something creamy and comforting, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta hits all the right notes.
Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Rich and Creamy: The luscious parmesan-infused sauce makes this dish irresistibly creamy.
- Perfectly Seasoned Chicken: Seared to perfection, the chicken is juicy and full of flavor.
- Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, this restaurant-quality dish comes together in under an hour.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for date night, family dinner, or entertaining guests, this dish is always a hit.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small ones)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Garnishing:
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Extra parmesan cheese
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Medium pot for pasta
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts in half, or cut them into bite-sized pieces if you prefer. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika — this is what gives the chicken that deliciously savory crust.
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and let it sear, cooking for 4–5 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and cooked through.
You want that beautiful color and a little crisp on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside — it’ll be ready to join the creamy sauce and pasta in just a few steps.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- You can use any type of pasta
- Drain, toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce

- In the same pan used for the chicken, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping the pan to release the flavorful bits.
- Reduce heat and add heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir until smooth.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Everything

Gently return the cooked chicken to the skillet, letting it nestle into that creamy sauce.
Pour in the cooked pasta and toss everything together so every piece is coated in that rich, cheesy goodness.
Give it a couple of minutes over low heat for the flavors to meld — that’s when the sauce hugs the chicken and pasta perfectly, making every bite irresistible. Then, you can turn off the heat and get ready to serve.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve

- Sprinkle with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, basil, and high-quality parmesan make a difference.
- Sear the Chicken Well: A golden-brown crust adds depth to the flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep it al dente so it absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Reduce or increase the red pepper flakes based on preference.
- Thin the Sauce if Needed: If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water.
Check out – Savory Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Variations of Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Low-Carb Version: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
- Mushroom Lovers’ Twist: Add sautéed mushrooms for extra umami flavor.
- Extra Cheesy: Mix in shredded mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy texture.
- Seafood Upgrade: Swap chicken for shrimp or salmon for a seafood version.
Pairing Suggestions
- Wine: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce.
- Side Dish: Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted asparagus make great accompaniments.
- Dessert: Follow up with a light dessert like lemon sorbet or chocolate mousse.
Health Benefits of Marry Me Chicken Pasta

✔️ High-Quality Protein – With tender chicken as the star, this dish provides a hearty dose of protein, helping to keep you full, support muscle repair, and keep energy levels steady throughout the day.
✔️ Nutrient-Rich Tomatoes – Sun-dried tomatoes are packed with antioxidants, including lycopene, which can help fight free radicals and support heart health.
✔️ Calcium for Strong Bones – The parmesan and cream in the sauce are not just delicious—they’re also a source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
✔️ Healthy Fats for Satiety – Olive oil and the natural fats from cheese and cream provide satisfying, heart-friendly fats that keep you feeling full and nourished.
✔️ Boosts Mood & Comfort – Beyond nutrition, a warm, flavorful dish like this has a comforting effect that can lift your spirits and make mealtime a joy, especially on busy weeknights or cozy evenings at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Ahead of Time?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or chicken broth to revive the sauce.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
It’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately. Avoid freezing pasta, as it can become mushy when reheated.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
Half-and-half or coconut milk can be used, though the sauce may be slightly less creamy.
How Do I Make It Spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to kick up the heat.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe – The Ultimate Comfort Dish
Course: Recipes, Main Course, DinnerCuisine: Italian4
servings15
minutes25
minutes580
kcalCreamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich parmesan cream sauce over pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or impressing guests with a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Ingredients
2 large chicken breasts
Salt & black pepper to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
2 tbsp olive oil
- For the Sauce:
3 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
- For the Pasta:
8 oz pasta of choice (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts in half or into bite-sized pieces. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside. - Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add Parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. - Combine Chicken & Pasta
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and coat with the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together. Let the flavors meld for 2 minutes before turning off the heat. - Serve & Garnish
Plate the pasta and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Optional Tips & Variations
Add spinach or arugula for a green boost.
Use grilled or roasted vegetables to make it heartier.
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter version.
Sprinkle extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes for more flavor.
Health Benefits
High Protein: Chicken provides lean protein to build and repair muscles.
Rich in Calcium: Parmesan cheese supports strong bones.
Antioxidants: Sun-dried tomatoes provide lycopene, which helps fight free radicals.
Comfort Food: Creamy pasta can boost mood and satisfy cravings without processed ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, packed with rich flavors and creamy goodness. Whether you’re making it for a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or simply treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Try it out, and who knows? It might just win over someone’s heart!
Let us know how you liked this recipe in the comments below! Don’t forget to share and tag us if you try it.










