Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe – A Creamy, Irresistible Dish
Have you ever had a meal so good that it could make someone fall in love? That’s exactly what Marry Me Chicken Pasta is all about! This dish is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect comfort food for a cozy dinner or a romantic meal.
The combination of tender, seasoned chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce over pasta creates an unforgettable taste. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or just treating yourself, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even a marriage proposal!
Let’s get started with everything you need to know to make this incredible pasta dish.
Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and one pan for the sauce.
Creamy & Flavorful – The perfect mix of garlic, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Versatile – Easily adjust ingredients to fit your taste and dietary needs.
Restaurant-Quality at Home – Save money while impressing your family or guests.
Great for Special Occasions – Perfect for a romantic dinner or family gathering.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Here’s what you need to create this heavenly pasta dish:
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dried pasta (your choice) | 8 oz |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Onion (finely chopped) | ½ cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 3-4 cloves |
| Butter | 1 tbsp |
| Chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces) | 1 lb |
| Italian seasoning | ½ tsp |
| Smoked paprika | ½ tsp |
| Red pepper flakes | ½ tsp |
| Garlic powder | ½ tsp |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | ½ cup |
| Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped) | ½ cup |
| Basil leaves (for garnish) | As needed |
Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 20 min | Total Time: 30 min
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook until al dente (follow package instructions).
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the Chicken and Sauce
- While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and butter, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook the Chicken
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet.
- Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce
- Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in heavy cream, reserved pasta water, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Combine & Serve
- Add the cooked pasta to the pan, tossing it in the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy!
Substitutions and Variations
If you need to adjust the recipe to fit your dietary preferences, try these swaps:
Alternative Pasta Choices
- Gluten-Free Pasta – For a gluten-free version.
- Whole Wheat Pasta – A fiber-rich, healthier option.
Protein Swaps
- Chicken Thighs – A juicier, more flavorful option.
- Shrimp – For a delicious seafood variation.
Dairy-Free & Lighter Options
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Swap Parmesan for a dairy-free alternative if needed.
Tomato Alternatives
- Use fresh cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers if sun-dried tomatoes aren’t available.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550 kcal |
| Protein | 40g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 720mg |
This dish is high in protein and satisfying, making it a great option for a hearty meal.
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This dish pairs wonderfully with:
Fresh Green Salad – A light contrast to the creamy sauce.
Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
White Wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the dish beautifully.
Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Use Fresh Garlic – It enhances the sauce’s flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Keep it juicy by cooking just until done.
Reserve Pasta Water – It helps create a silkier sauce.
Taste & Adjust Seasoning – Always taste before serving!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
2. How do I reheat leftovers?
- Stovetop: Add a splash of cream or broth and heat on low.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
3. Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Yes! Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
4. Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild kick from red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the spice level.
5. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in a sealed container.
6. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a little cornstarch or extra Parmesan for a creamier consistency.
Final Thoughts – Try This Irresistible Dish Tonight!
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is a creamy, flavorful, and comforting meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a date night or a cozy family dinner, this dish is simple to make but feels special.
So, grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and treat yourself to a meal worth falling in love with!
Have you tried this recipe? Let me know how it turned out in the comments!