Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Have you ever cooked something so flavorful, so comforting, that it instantly became a household favorite? That’s exactly what happened the first time I made this Marry Me Chicken Pasta. With its creamy garlic herb sauce, tender seared chicken, and bursts of tangy sun-dried tomatoes, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor—right from your own kitchen.

Whether you’re planning a cozy date night or just need a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste, this one-pan pasta hits every mark. It’s rich without being heavy, bold without being complicated, and honestly? It might just become your most requested meal.

Why You’ll Love Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

If you’ve been searching for a dish that’s effortless yet unforgettable, this creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is your answer. It’s the kind of meal that earns rave reviews at the table and even more requests for seconds. Here’s why it’s worthy of a regular place in your weekly lineup:

Bursting With Bold, Balanced Flavor

Think juicy, pan-seared chicken paired with a rich, sun-dried tomato cream sauce that’s garlicky, cheesy, and just a touch tangy. The combination is crave-worthy without being overly heavy.

Made in One Pan

Less mess, more magic. You’ll sauté, simmer, and stir everything in one skillet—perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty but hassle-free.

Quick and Weeknight-Friendly

Ready in under 40 minutes, this pasta doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Just a few steps and some pantry staples are all you need.

Elegant Enough for Guests

With its glossy sauce and vibrant color, it looks like something you’d order at a restaurant—but it’s secretly super simple to pull off.

Totally Customizable

You can swap in gluten-free pasta, add spinach for extra greens, or kick it up with a pinch of crushed red pepper. It’s your dinner—make it yours!

Whether you’re cooking for someone special or just treating yourself, this dish brings that perfect mix of comfort and wow factor. Now that we’ve covered the “why,” let’s get you prepped with everything you’ll need.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk ingredients—because great flavor starts with the right foundation. This Marry Me Chicken Pasta calls for simple, everyday staples that come together to create something seriously special. If you’ve got a well-stocked pantry and a craving for comfort, you’re already halfway there.

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – sliced horizontally for even cooking
  
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
  
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds depth without overpowering
  
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – think oregano, basil, thyme…all the classics
  
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for a golden, flavorful sear
  

For the Sauce:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced – fresh is best for bold aroma
  
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped – rich, slightly sweet, and packed with umami
  
• 1 cup chicken broth – low-sodium preferred, adds savory depth
  
• 1 cup heavy cream – creates that dreamy, silky texture
  
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – salty, nutty, and essential
  
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – for a hint of heat
  

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces pasta – penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work great
  
• Salted water, for boiling
  

To Finish:

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped – for color and a pop of freshness
  
• Extra Parmesan, for garnish – because more cheese never hurts
  

Pro Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce—pre-shredded versions often contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting.

With everything prepped and ready, you’re just a few steps away from pasta perfection.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Time to dive into the cooking! Making this Marry Me Chicken Pasta is straightforward and rewarding—perfect whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef. I’ll walk you through each step clearly, so let’s get started.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Heat a large pot of salted water until it reaches a boil.
  
  
• Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions (usually 8–10 minutes).
  
• Drain and set aside, keeping about ½ cup of pasta water just in case you need it later.
  

Tip: Al dente pasta ensures perfect texture when combined with your creamy sauce.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

• Generously season the sliced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  
• Add chicken and cook about 4–5 minutes per side until beautifully golden and cooked through.
  
• Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate, cover loosely with foil, and set aside.
  

Pro Tip: Avoid overcrowding your pan—this ensures your chicken gets a nice crispy exterior rather than steaming.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

• In the same skillet (with all those delicious brown bits from the chicken), lower heat to medium.
  
• Add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet; cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  
• Pour in chicken broth, gently scraping up browned bits from the skillet—this adds wonderful depth of flavor!
  
• Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer gently for about 3–4 minutes, until slightly thickened.
  

Optional: Sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes for a mild kick of heat.

Step 4: Combine Everything

• Slice your cooked chicken into bite-sized strips.
  
• Add the chicken and cooked penne straight into the skillet with the creamy sauce.
  
• Gently toss everything together, making sure every piece of pasta is perfectly coated.
  

Tip: If the sauce appears too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired creamy consistency.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle chopped basil or parsley generously over the top.
  
• Add extra Parmesan cheese if desired (it’s always a delicious finishing touch!).
  
• Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade, restaurant-worthy pasta masterpiece.
  

Now your Marry Me Chicken Pasta is ready to wow anyone who tastes it.

Pro Tips and Flavorful Variations

One of the best things about Marry Me Chicken Pasta—aside from its incredible flavor—is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re customizing for dietary needs or just spicing things up a bit, there’s plenty of room to make this creamy pasta your own.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Pound the chicken breasts lightly before slicing to ensure even cooking and juicier results.
  
• Use freshly grated Parmesan—it melts more smoothly into the sauce than pre-packaged shreds and gives a richer taste.
  
• Reserve pasta water before draining. A splash can help thin the sauce and bind everything beautifully.
  
• Let the chicken rest before slicing. This keeps it tender and prevents juices from running out too quickly.
  
• Don’t rush the simmer. Let the sauce thicken gently—it only takes a few minutes but deepens the flavor noticeably.
  

Easy Ingredient Swaps

• Make it gluten-free: Swap in your favorite gluten-free penne without changing any other steps.
  
• Dairy-free option: Use unsweetened oat or almond cream and a vegan Parmesan-style cheese.
  
• No sun-dried tomatoes? Try roasted red peppers for a different kind of sweetness and depth.
  
• Out of chicken? Shrimp, salmon, or even crispy tofu work wonderfully in this dish.
  

Want a Flavor Twist?

• Spice it up: Add a touch more crushed red pepper flakes or stir in a spoonful of Calabrian chili paste for a bolder kick.
  
• Add greens: Toss in a handful of baby spinach or chopped kale during the last minute of cooking for extra color and nutrition.
  
• Mushroom magic: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for an earthy, umami boost.
  

This recipe is designed to be forgiving and full of opportunity. Once you’ve made it once, you’ll find yourself experimenting with new versions all the time. Let’s talk next about how to plate and pair it like a pro!

How to Serve Your Marry Me Chicken Pasta

You’ve just created a rich, creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta that tastes like it came from your favorite Italian bistro—now let’s serve it like a pro. This dish is a showstopper all on its own, but with the right sides and a little presentation flair, you can elevate it into a full-on experience.

Perfect Pairings

• Garlic Bread or Focaccia
  A golden, crispy slice of garlic bread or a piece of fluffy focaccia is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sun-dried tomato sauce.
  
• Simple Green Salad
  Balance the richness of the pasta with something fresh. A crisp salad with arugula, lemon vinaigrette, and shaved Parmesan adds brightness and contrast.
  
• Roasted Vegetables
  Try roasted asparagus, zucchini, or broccolini with olive oil and sea salt. The earthy flavors pair beautifully with the creamy chicken and penne.
  
• Crispy Brussels Sprouts
  For a bolder pairing, go with oven-roasted Brussels sprouts finished with balsamic glaze—crunchy, sweet, and just the right amount of bite.
  

Beverage Ideas

• Sparkling Water with Lemon: For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a squeeze of citrus cuts through the richness.
  
• Iced Tea or Light Spritzer: These work well for casual dinners or sunny weekend lunches.
  

Presentation Tips

• Serve in shallow pasta bowls for a restaurant-style feel.
  
• Garnish with fresh basil, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and a crack of black pepper right before serving.
  
• If you’re serving guests, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil over the top adds shine and a luxurious finish.

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  
• Reheat gently: Use the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
  
• Avoid freezing: The cream-based sauce may separate when thawed, so fresh is best here!

Whether it’s a cozy meal with family or a casual dinner with friends, this one-pan pasta is meant to be shared and savored.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason this dish is called Marry Me Chicken Pasta—it’s bold, comforting, and so flavorful it might just win hearts at the table. With its creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, juicy chicken, and perfectly coated penne, every bite delivers a little bit of magic.

Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy weeknight treat or pulling out all the stops for a special occasion, this pasta proves that simple ingredients can create something unforgettable. It’s one of those recipes you’ll come back to—again and again.

If you loved this dish, you might also enjoy our ultra-creamy Baked Mac and Cheese for another comfort food favorite that’s rich, satisfying, and perfect for sharing.

Tried this recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Save it, share it, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to for impressing family, friends—or that special someone.

FAQs