If there’s one pasta dish that can make someone fall in love at first bite, it’s this one! Marry Me Chicken Pasta is rich, creamy, and downright irresistible—so much so that it supposedly inspires marriage proposals. Whether that’s true or not, one thing’s for sure: this dish is a keeper!
Juicy, golden-seared chicken meets a luscious, garlicky, sun-dried tomato cream sauce, all wrapped around tender pasta. It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy but is shockingly easy to whip up at home. Oh, and did I mention the Parmesan? Because trust me, there’s plenty of it, and it ties everything together in the most delicious way.
If you love creamy, flavor-packed pasta dishes, you’ll also want to check out my Marry Me Salmon Pasta for a delicious seafood twist!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
For the Chicken and Pasta
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The classic choice! Lean, tender, and easy to slice.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Want extra juiciness? Thighs have more fat, which means more flavour!
If you love juicy, well-seasoned chicken, you might also enjoy my Chicken Cutlets in Oven recipe for a simple and delicious way to prepare chicken.
- Fettuccine – Wide, flat noodles that hug the sauce beautifully.
- Penne – The little tubes trap the sauce inside, so every bite bursts with flavour.
- Rigatoni – Think penne, but extra fancy with ridges to catch every drop.
For the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
- Heavy cream – The key to a luxuriously thick and creamy sauce.
- Garlic – Because no great pasta dish starts without it!
- Parmesan cheese – Salty, nutty, and melts right into the sauce for that velvety finish.
- Sun-dried tomatoes – Slightly sweet, a little tangy, and packed with umami goodness.
- Chicken broth – Adds depth to the sauce while keeping it from getting too heavy.
- Red pepper flakes – Just a pinch for a little heat (optional, but highly recommended!).
Want to Switch Things Up? Here Are Some Alternatives!
- Lighter option? Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half to cut down on richness while still keeping it creamy.
- Dairy-free? Use full-fat coconut milk or a creamy cashew-based alternative.
- No sun-dried tomatoes? Try roasted red peppers for a different but equally delicious twist.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season generously. We’re talking salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and a little paprika for warmth. If you like a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes won’t hurt!
- Sear it to perfection. Heat a large pan over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken and let it sizzle until golden brown—about 4–5 minutes per side. No poking, no flipping too soon—let it get that gorgeous crust!
- Rest, then slice. Once cooked through (165°F internal temp), let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips. This keeps it juicy and tender.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Salt the water—like the sea! This is your one shot at seasoning the pasta itself, so be generous.
- Cook until just al dente. The pasta will soak up some of that dreamy sauce later, so we don’t want it too soft. Follow the package instructions, but shave off a minute or two for the perfect texture.
- Save some pasta water! Before draining, scoop out about ½ cup of that starchy gold—it’ll help make the sauce silky smooth.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- Sauté the aromatics. In the same pan you cooked the chicken, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then toss in minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for about a minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pan. Pour in a splash of chicken broth, scraping up all those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. That’s where the magic lives!
- Make it creamy. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for a few minutes until thick and luscious.
- Balance the flavours. Taste and adjust! Need more salt? More cheese? A touch of lemon juice for brightness? This is your moment to perfect the sauce.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Toss in the pasta. Add your cooked pasta straight into the sauce, tossing to coat every strand in that velvety goodness.
- Thin it out (if needed). If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach the perfect consistency.
- Top with the chicken. Nestle those juicy chicken slices right on top.
- Garnish like a pro. A little extra Parmesan, a sprinkle of fresh basil, and maybe even a drizzle of olive oil—because we’re fancy like that.
Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Want to make this dish next-level delicious? A few simple tricks can turn a great pasta into an unforgettable one.
Cooking Techniques for Juicy Chicken & a Flavor-Packed Sauce
- Let the chicken chill before cooking. If your chicken is ice-cold straight from the fridge, it won’t cook evenly. Let it sit at room temp for about 15 minutes before searing.
- Sear like a pro. The secret to flavorful, golden-brown chicken? A hot pan and patience! Don’t flip too soon—let each side develop a gorgeous crust before turning.
- Slice against the grain. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it against the grain for the most tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Nailing the Perfect Sauce Consistency
- Too thick? A splash of reserved pasta water or extra chicken broth will loosen it up while keeping it silky.
- Too thin? Let it simmer for a few more minutes, or add a bit more Parmesan—it works like magic to thicken the sauce!
- Want it extra creamy? Stir in a small knob of butter at the end for a glossy, restaurant-style finish.
Balancing the Flavors Like a Pro
- Taste as you go! A little pinch of salt or a dash of lemon juice can make all the difference.
- Love a little heat? A sprinkle of red pepper flakes gives this dish a subtle kick without overpowering the creamy goodness.
- Want deeper flavour? A touch of garlic powder or a hint of smoked paprika in the sauce adds an extra layer of deliciousness.
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Garlic bread – Buttery, crispy, and perfect for soaking up all that goodness.
- Crusty baguette – A classic choice for sopping up sauce like a pro.
- Homemade focaccia – Soft, herby, and a total game-changer.
- Simple arugula salad – Peppery arugula, shaved Parmesan, a squeeze of lemon, and a drizzle of olive oil—so simple, so good.
- Classic Caesar salad – Because creamy on creamy works when there’s a little crunch involved!
- Chicken Salad Chick Broccoli Salad – it’s a perfect contrast to the rich pasta!
- Tomato and burrata salad – Juicy tomatoes, creamy burrata, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze? Say no more.
- Garlic-roasted asparagus – Light, crispy, and a breeze to make.
- Sautéed spinach with garlic – Simple, flavorful, and a great way to add some greens to your plate.
- Oven-roasted Brussels sprouts – A little crispy, a little caramelized, and totally addictive.
Leftovers and Storage Tips for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
So, you made Marry Me Chicken Pasta, and somehow—somehow—you have leftovers. Follow these tips, and your leftovers will taste just as dreamy as day one!
How to Store Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Cool it down first. Don’t toss piping-hot pasta straight into the fridge—it’ll create excess moisture and make everything soggy. Let it cool for about 15–20 minutes before storing.
- Use an airtight container. This keeps the pasta fresh and prevents that dreaded fridge smell from creeping in.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days. After that, the sauce might start to separate, and the texture won’t be as perfect.
Reheating for the Best Taste and Texture
- Stovetop (Best Method!)
- Place the pasta in a pan over low heat.
- Add a splash of chicken broth, milk, or even a little extra cream to loosen up the sauce.
- Stir frequently until heated through and perfectly creamy again.
- Microwave (Quick & Easy)
- Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish.
- Add a small splash of liquid (chicken broth or milk works best).
- Wrap with a moist paper towel to keep it from drying out.
- Heat in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until warmed.
- Oven (For Larger Portions)
- Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the pasta in an oven-safe dish, add a little extra liquid, and cover with foil.
- Bake for about 15 minutes, stirring once to distribute the heat.
Can You Freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Yes, but with a little caution! The creamy sauce may change texture after freezing, but if you’re okay with that, go for it.
- Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with added liquid to restore creaminess.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Pasta:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 12 ounces fettuccine penne, or rigatoni
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
For the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a lighter option
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Drizzle of olive oil
Instructions
- Season : Generously season chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for deep flavor.
- Sear : Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat and sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Rest before slicing.
- Boil : Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, reserving ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté : In the same pan, sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes until fragrant, using a splash of chicken broth to deglaze.
- Simmer : Add heavy cream, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes, letting the sauce simmer until thickened. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Combine : Toss pasta into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed for consistency. Top with sliced chicken.
- Garnish : Sprinkle with fresh basil, extra Parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut milk or a cashew-based cream alternative.
- Swap sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a different twist.
- Adjust spice levels by increasing or omitting red pepper flakes.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Me Chicken Pasta
What pasta is best with Marry Me Chicken?
Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni work best for Marry Me Chicken Pasta, as they hold onto the creamy sauce well. Long pasta like linguine or spaghetti is also a great option for a more elegant presentation. Choose a shape that complements the rich, velvety sauce for the best experience.
Why is it called “Marry Me Chicken Pasta”?
The name comes from the original Marry Me Chicken dish, which gained its name because it’s so delicious that it could inspire a marriage proposal. Adding pasta to the dish makes it even more comforting and hearty. The name is playful, but the flavors are seriously irresistible.
What is Marry Me Chicken made of?
Marry Me Chicken features pan-seared chicken in a creamy, garlicky sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, heavy cream, and Italian seasonings. It’s a rich, flavorful dish that balances tangy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. When paired with pasta, it becomes even more indulgent.
What sides go with Marry Me Chicken?
Great side dishes include garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish. For something heartier, mashed potatoes or a side of risotto pair beautifully.
Is Marry Me Chicken any good?
Yes, Marry Me Chicken is incredibly flavorful, with a creamy, savory sauce and tender, juicy chicken that make it a crowd-pleaser. The balance of Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic gives it a rich yet well-rounded taste. It’s a comforting dish that’s easy to love.
What is similar to Marry Me Chicken?
Dishes like Tuscan Chicken, Chicken Alfredo, and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken have similar creamy, indulgent flavors. Chicken Marsala also shares a rich sauce but features mushrooms and a wine-based sauce instead. If you love creamy chicken dishes, you’ll likely enjoy these as well.
What can you use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
You can substitute roasted red peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even tomato paste for a similar depth of flavor. If you want a touch of tanginess, a bit of balsamic glaze or tomato purée can work as well. Just keep in mind that sun-dried tomatoes add a slightly sweet and concentrated tomato flavor that’s unique.
What’s the difference between Tuscan Chicken and Marry Me Chicken?
While both dishes have a creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce, Tuscan Chicken often includes spinach and a slightly lighter sauce with a hint of white wine. Marry Me Chicken is richer and more indulgent, focusing on a thicker, creamier sauce with a stronger garlic and Parmesan profile. Both are delicious, but Marry Me Chicken tends to be more decadent.
Do you put tomato paste in Marry Me Chicken?
Traditional Marry Me Chicken does not require tomato paste, as sun-dried tomatoes provide enough depth and tangy-sweet flavor. However, if you prefer a more pronounced tomato base, you can add a teaspoon of tomato paste to enhance the sauce.
Can you put onions in Marry Me Chicken?
Yes, onions can be added for extra flavor, though they are not traditionally included. Finely diced shallots or onions can be sautéed along with the garlic to add a slightly sweet and aromatic depth to the sauce. Caramelized onions could also bring a hint of sweetness.
Why do they call it “Marry Me Chicken”?
The dish reportedly got its name because it’s so delicious that it could make someone want to propose after tasting it. The combination of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors makes it a universally loved dish. While the name is fun, the taste is what truly wins hearts!
What is a substitute for heavy cream in Marry Me Chicken?
You can use half-and-half, coconut milk, or a mixture of milk and butter as a substitute for heavy cream. Greek yogurt or cream cheese can also work for a tangier, thicker alternative. Keep in mind that substitutions may slightly alter the texture and richness of the sauce.
Is Marry Me Chicken keto?
The traditional Marry Me Chicken (without pasta) is keto-friendly since it’s made with cream, Parmesan, and protein-rich chicken. To keep it keto, serve it over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or steamed vegetables instead of regular pasta. Just be mindful of ingredient swaps, like using a low-carb thickener if needed.