Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for impressing someone special, “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” is the answer. This creamy, dreamy recipe combines tender chicken, a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta to create a restaurant-quality meal at home. The name suggests its charm—so delicious it could lead to a proposal!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the epitome of comfort food with a sophisticated twist. The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes makes the sauce creamy and tangy, perfectly coating every piece of pasta. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a romantic dinner for two, this recipe is sure to impress with its bold flavors and velvety texture.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts, halved horizontally (to create thin cutlets)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ¾ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces (about ½ pound) fettuccine, penne, or your favorite pasta
• Salt (for pasta water)

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Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant (about 1 minute).
2. Stir in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze it. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Stir until smooth and creamy. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Combine

1. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the sauce. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately. Pair with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for the ultimate meal.

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Possible Variations

• Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp or salmon for a seafood twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or grilled tofu.
• Pasta Choices: Use spaghetti, linguine, or even gluten-free pasta if preferred.
• Extra Veggies: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for added nutrition and color.
• Cheese Upgrade: Use Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a sharper flavor.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4 generously.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from separating.

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FAQs

How did “Marry Me Chicken” get its name?

The dish is said to be so irresistible that it could inspire a marriage proposal. While it’s a playful name, the combination of rich flavors certainly feels like love on a plate.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance and store them separately. Combine them with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat this dish without drying it out?

Reheat over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently, and add a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream and use a plant-based Parmesan cheese.

Is this dish spicy?

The red pepper flakes add a hint of spice, but you can omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Fresh tomatoes can work, but they’ll provide a less intense, tangy flavor compared to sun-dried tomatoes.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables are excellent choices to complement the rich pasta.

Can I freeze this dish?

The sauce freezes well, but freezing the entire dish with pasta might lead to a mushy texture upon reheating. It’s best to freeze just the sauce and make fresh pasta when ready to serve.

What type of skillet is best for this recipe?

A large, heavy-bottomed skillet (like cast iron or stainless steel) works best for even cooking and retaining heat.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken can save time. Simply add it to the sauce to warm through before combining with the pasta.

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Conclusion

“Marry Me Chicken Pasta” is more than just a dish—it’s an experience. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a recipe designed to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a family dinner, or just to treat yourself, this dish delivers in both flavor and presentation. Try it once, and it just might become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

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