Marry Me Chicken Pasta – A Creamy, Irresistible Dinner Recipe

Introduction

If you’re searching for a dish that’s rich, comforting, and full of flavor, look no further than Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This recipe combines tender chicken, a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta—all in one skillet.

Legend has it that this dish is so delicious, it could inspire a marriage proposal—hence the playful name. Whether or not that happens, one thing’s certain: this pasta will win hearts at the dinner table every time.

Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or when you want a cozy yet elegant meal, this dish is a guaranteed showstopper.

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Ingredients

• 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 12 oz penne pasta (or your favorite shape)
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins:

• Spinach or kale for extra greens
• Mushrooms for added earthiness

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Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: 30–35 minutes

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
• Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from pan, let rest, then slice.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

• In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
• Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Simmer 3–5 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine Everything

• Add cooked pasta into the sauce, tossing well.
• Stir in sliced chicken and a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen sauce.
• Sprinkle with fresh basil and more Parmesan.

Step 5: Serve

• Plate and serve immediately while creamy and hot.

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Tips for Success

• Use sun-dried tomatoes in oil for richer flavor.
• Don’t overcook chicken—juicy slices elevate the dish.
• Reserve pasta water—it helps bind sauce perfectly.
• Add spinach or kale for extra nutrition and color.

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Nutrition (per serving, 4 servings)

• Calories: 620
• Protein: 36g
• Carbs: 52g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g

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Variations

• Spicy Marry Me Pasta: Increase red pepper flakes or add chili oil.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve with zucchini noodles instead of pasta.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Add shredded mozzarella for extra creaminess.
• One-Pot Hack: Cook pasta directly in sauce with extra broth.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with garlic bread or buttery breadsticks.
• Add a simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette for freshness.
• A glass of white wine complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking pasta—keep it al dente to hold up in the sauce.
• Using pre-shredded Parmesan—freshly grated melts creamier.
• Skipping the rest time for chicken—it helps retain juices.
• Adding cold pasta to sauce—make sure it’s warm to blend smoothly.

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Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk.
• Freezer: Best enjoyed fresh; cream sauces can separate after freezing.

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Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is creamy, flavorful, and downright irresistible. From the juicy chicken to the velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce, this dish makes every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for a date, your family, or simply yourself, this recipe promises comfort and satisfaction in under 40 minutes.

👉 Try it tonight, share your experience in the comments, and don’t forget to save this recipe for your next special occasion!

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FAQs

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs add even more flavor and stay extra juicy.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but add a splash of cream or milk when reheating to revive the sauce.

Q3: What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?
Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine all work well—they hold creamy sauces perfectly.

Q4: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes—swap heavy cream for coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese.

Q5: Why is it called “Marry Me Chicken Pasta”?
Because it’s so delicious, people joke it could spark a marriage proposal!