Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that has taken the internet by storm.
This indulgent combination of juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich parmesan cream sauce over pasta is said to be so delicious that it could inspire a marriage proposal!
Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
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
Savory Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Slice the chicken breasts in half or cut them into little bite sizes if you like.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
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
- Return the 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
