This Marry Me Pasta with Chicken is an irresistibly creamy, flavorful dish that’s so good, it just might earn you a marriage proposal! With juicy, golden-seared chicken, tender pasta, and a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan, every bite is rich, comforting, and unforgettable. It’s the kind of dinner that feels luxurious yet is simple enough for a busy weeknight. The sauce clings perfectly to each strand of pasta, balancing savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors in a way that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for your partner, your family, or just yourself, this restaurant-quality pasta is a guaranteed hit that turns any evening into a special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Pasta with Chicken
You’ll love this recipe because it’s indulgent, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. It takes classic Italian comfort food and elevates it with creamy, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and tender chicken. The combination of cream, Parmesan, and garlic gives it that velvety restaurant-style sauce that’s both rich and balanced. Best of all, it uses simple pantry ingredients and comes together in under 40 minutes. It’s perfect for date nights, dinner parties, or cozy nights at home. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep or next-day leftovers.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If you love creamy pasta dishes that taste like they came from an Italian bistro, this recipe is a must-try. The sun-dried tomatoes add a depth of flavor that complements the creamy sauce perfectly, while the chicken adds a satisfying, protein-packed element that makes it a full meal. It’s rich but not heavy, and the flavor balance — slightly garlicky, a touch tangy, and perfectly cheesy — makes it unforgettable. This is one of those dishes that impresses everyone without requiring complicated steps, which is why it’s called “Marry Me Pasta” — it’s that good!
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless), 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons butter, 3 cloves garlic (minced), ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped), 1 cup heavy cream, ½ cup chicken broth, ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice), salt and black pepper to taste, 8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine), and fresh basil for garnish.
How to Make Marry Me Pasta with Chicken (Step-by-Step)
- Step 1 – Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, toss lightly with olive oil, and set aside.
- Step 2 – Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and butter. Once hot, sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Step 3 – Make the Creamy Base: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute to release their flavor. Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan — these add incredible flavor.
- Step 4 – Add the Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently as it simmers, then add the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes smooth and velvety. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice.
- Step 5 – Combine Everything: Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet. Add the drained pasta directly into the sauce and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated and the chicken is evenly distributed.
- Step 6 – Simmer and Serve: Let the pasta cook in the sauce for 1–2 minutes to absorb the flavors. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan before serving.
Tips for the Best Marry Me Pasta with Chicken
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce. Don’t overcook the chicken — remove it when it reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the sauce simmer gently so it thickens without curdling. Scrape the skillet after cooking the chicken for extra flavor. Add red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine for depth. Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for the richest taste. Stir the sauce constantly to avoid burning the cream. Mix the pasta directly into the sauce to help it soak up flavor. Use short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni for better sauce coverage. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a restaurant-style presentation.
Variations & Substitutions
- Marry Me Shrimp Pasta: Swap chicken for shrimp for a seafood version.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- Extra Spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Cheese Lover’s Dream: Mix in mozzarella or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.
- Tomato Twist: Stir in a spoonful of tomato paste for a deeper flavor.
- Herb Boost: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for aroma.
- Garlic Lovers: Double the garlic for a bolder taste.
- Date-Night Special: Top with crispy prosciutto or bacon for a fancy touch.
What to Serve With Marry Me Pasta with Chicken
Serve this rich, creamy pasta with garlic bread or warm baguette slices to soak up the sauce. It pairs beautifully with a fresh Caesar salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, enjoy it with a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon. It also works perfectly as a main course for romantic dinners or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- To Store: Let leftovers cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- To Freeze: Place in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- To Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, store the sauce and pasta separately to maintain texture.
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely — they’re juicier and more flavorful.
- Can I skip the sun-dried tomatoes? You can, but they add a lot of depth to the sauce.
- Can I use milk instead of cream? Use whole milk with a tablespoon of butter for a lighter version.
- Can I add vegetables? Spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes work wonderfully.
- Can I make it dairy-free? Substitute coconut cream and vegan cheese.
- How do I thicken the sauce? Simmer longer or add extra Parmesan.
- Can I make it spicy? Yes, add more red pepper flakes or chili oil.
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, just slice and warm it in the sauce before serving.
- How long does it keep? Up to 4 days refrigerated or 2 months frozen.