If you are looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug, the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe combines tender chicken strips, sun-dried tomatoes, creamy Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta to create an irresistible meal. It’s the kind of dish that makes you wonder how something so delicious can come together so quickly and easily—ideal for weeknights but special enough to impress guests or a loved one.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the aromatic garlic to the zesty sun-dried tomatoes, these essentials come together to make the sauce rich and creamy while the chicken and pasta create the perfect base.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips: Using breasts cut into strips ensures quick cooking and even seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A heart-healthy fat that crisps the chicken and adds depth.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that complements creamy elements.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings smokiness and rich color to the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that lifts the whole recipe.
- 3 cloves garlic minced: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with savory warmth.
- 1 cup chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that keeps the sauce light but tasty.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess to coat each pasta piece.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped: These deliver tang and a chewy texture that brightens the dish.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For irresistibly cheesy richness and savory depth.
- 12 ounces pasta such as penne or rigatoni: Chooses a shape that holds sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds silkiness and enhances the garlic when cooked.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Imparts a subtle kick without overwhelming.
- Fresh basil for serving: Adds a fresh, herbal note and vivid green color.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your choice of pasta according to the package directions until al dente. This is crucial because you want the pasta to have a bit of bite; it will soak up the luscious sauce later without turning mushy. Once cooked, drain it and set aside while you prepare the sauce and chicken.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
Season your chicken strips generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. These spices really bring the chicken to life. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes, allowing it to brown beautifully and cook through. Afterward, remove the chicken to a plate to rest while you create the sauce.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the butter and add minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant—about a minute. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Then add the sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes, bringing everything to a gentle simmer to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce and Combine
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, letting it melt slowly into the sauce, creating that silky and cheesy consistency. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and simmer for 2 more minutes so it can soak up those delicious flavors. Finally, toss in the cooked pasta and swirl everything together until the noodles are perfectly coated in the sauce.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are a must for this dish, adding a burst of color and herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top just before serving makes each bite even more indulgent.
Side Dishes
Since the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is indulgent and filling, pairing it with lighter sides works best. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables balances the creamy pasta wonderfully. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also makes a tasty choice for sopping up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the pasta family-style in a rustic pasta bowl topped with whole basil sprigs to impress your guests. You can also plate individual portions sprinkled with fresh cracked pepper and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for that glossy finish. For an extra touch, add toasted pine nuts or a pinch of chili flakes on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The sauce may thicken upon cooling, but it will reheat beautifully while maintaining its creamy texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, although cream-based sauces may slightly separate upon thawing. For best results, store the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta and combine once reheated. Use freezer-safe containers, and it will keep well for up to one month.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce feels too thick. You can also warm individual servings in the microwave, stirring midway to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add richness and stay juicy during cooking, giving the dish a deeper flavor profile. Just make sure to cut them uniformly to cook evenly.
What pasta types work best for this recipe?
Penne, rigatoni, or any short pasta that can hold onto the creamy sauce really shines here. Their ridges and tube shapes catch the sauce beautifully, so every bite is full of flavor.
Are sun-dried tomatoes necessary?
While they add wonderful tang and texture, if you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, you could substitute with roasted red peppers or even fresh cherry tomatoes to keep the balance of sweetness and acidity.
How spicy is this recipe?
The red pepper flakes provide just a subtle heat that complements the creaminess rather than overpowering it. You can easily adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative to keep it creamy without dairy. The flavors will still be deliciously rich.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe that brings joy to the table with every bite. It’s simple enough to whip up on a busy night yet impressive and comforting in equal measure. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—once you do, it will quickly become one of your favorites to make again and again.
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Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
Description
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken strips cooked in a rich sauce of heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and garnished with fresh basil. It’s a comforting main course that combines Italian-inspired flavors with quick stovetop preparation, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Pasta and Garnish
- 12 ounces pasta such as penne or rigatoni
- Fresh basil for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to be added later to the sauce.
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, season chicken strips evenly with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until browned and thoroughly cooked. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, then add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and simmer for an additional 2 minutes to meld flavors.
- Toss with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer a few extra minutes before adding the pasta.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a richer, more flavorful result.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil offer the best texture and taste in this recipe.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
