Why has Marry Me Chicken Pasta taken the internet—and kitchens—by storm? According to Google Trends, searches for “creamy chicken pasta recipe” have spiked by over 200% in the past two years. And for good reason! With its rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly coated pasta, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a recipe—it’s a promise of love at first bite. Whether you’re looking to impress someone special or just craving a cozy, flavorful dinner, this dish delivers on all fronts.
Ingredients List
For 4 servings:
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced or pounded thin
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (in oil, drained)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Substitutions:
- Use half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter version
- Replace chicken with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist
- Add spinach or kale for a green boost
Timing
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
⏱️ Fun Fact: This is 30% quicker than traditional creamy pasta bakes—and just as indulgent.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season and sear the chicken
Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Make the creamy sauce
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Simmer 5–6 minutes until thickened.
4. Cook the pasta
Boil pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
5. Combine pasta and sauce
Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the sauce. Add pasta and a splash of reserved water. Stir until everything is well coated.
6. Serve and enjoy
Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately for ultimate creaminess.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 670 kcal
- Protein: 38 g
- Carbohydrates: 46 g
- Sugars: 4 g
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fiber: 3 g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Lighter sauce: Use Greek yogurt or cashew cream instead of heavy cream
- Low-carb option: Serve over spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice
- Less sodium: Choose low-sodium broth and limit added cheese
- Vegan version: Use plant-based cream, dairy-free Parmesan, and tofu or tempeh
Serving Suggestions
- With a side of garlic bread or roasted asparagus
- As a romantic dinner centerpiece with red wine
- Served in ramekins for individual portions at dinner parties
- Topped with toasted pine nuts or crispy prosciutto for crunch
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking chicken: It dries out quickly—monitor internal temperature (165°F)
- Skipping pasta water: It helps bind the sauce beautifully
- Too much cheese at once: Add Parmesan gradually to avoid clumps
- Using dry sun-dried tomatoes: Always opt for oil-packed for best texture
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Fridge: Store in airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheating: Gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth
- Freezing: Not recommended—cream-based sauces can separate upon thawing
- Meal Prep: Store sauce and pasta separately for best results
Conclusion
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor—ready to win hearts with every forkful. It’s the ultimate comfort food that feels gourmet but is easy enough for a weeknight. Make it once, and it might just earn you a proposal!
Best Marry Me Chicken: 3 Ways to Customize This Romantic Recipe
FAQs
Why is it called “Marry Me Chicken Pasta”?
Because it’s so good, it’s been known to inspire marriage proposals! The creamy, flavorful sauce is unforgettable. Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Can I make it ahead?
Yes! Make the sauce in advance and reheat with freshly cooked pasta. Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Absolutely—penne, fettuccine, rigatoni, or even shells all work well. Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Is it spicy?
No, but you can add chili flakes or Cajun seasoning if you like a kick. Marry Me Chicken Pasta
What wine pairs best with this dish?
A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce. Marry Me Chicken Pasta
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