Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, indulgent dish featuring tender chicken breasts in a rich sun-dried tomato and parmesan sauce, served over pasta. The name comes from its irresistible flavor—some say it’s so delicious, it might just inspire a marriage proposal!

This recipe balances savory, creamy, and slightly tangy notes, making it perfect for a romantic dinner or a comforting weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Creamy: A luscious parmesan and cream-based sauce coats every bite.
• Savory with a Tangy Twist: Sun-dried tomatoes add depth and contrast to the creamy sauce.
• Easy to Make: Ready in about 40 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Versatile: Works with various pasta types and proteins.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¾ cup chicken broth
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 8 ounces pasta (such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces.
2. Season both sides with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds.
2. Add red pepper flakes (if using), then pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan.
3. Stir in heavy cream, parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and dried oregano. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

1. While the sauce is simmering, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet, coating it in the sauce.
2. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until well combined.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
2. Serve warm and enjoy!

Variations

• Make it Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
• Swap the Protein: Use shrimp or salmon instead of chicken.
• Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce the cheese.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta or serve over zucchini noodles.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freeze: The sauce can be frozen separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How can I make this dish even creamier?

For an ultra-rich sauce, add an extra ¼ cup of heavy cream and a tablespoon of cream cheese.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti hold the sauce well, but any pasta can be used.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Yes, but sun-dried tomatoes provide a more concentrated flavor. If using fresh, add a bit more salt and a splash of balsamic vinegar.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, add a little reserved pasta water or broth to loosen it up.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

To make it keto-friendly, serve the chicken and sauce over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Simply slice and warm it in the sauce before serving.

What sides pair well with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this dish well.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus work great. Add them when making the sauce.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Sauté the chicken, then add all sauce ingredients and pressure cook for 5 minutes. Stir in cooked pasta before serving.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish to impress your loved ones with its creamy, flavorful sauce and tender chicken. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to win hearts. Try it today and see why it’s a fan favorite!

Print