If you are craving a dish that is irresistibly creamy, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to impress, then let me introduce you to the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. This delightful combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne, and a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce hits all the right notes. Every bite feels comforting yet elegant, making it a perfect weeknight favorite or a special occasion meal you’ll want to share with loved ones. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to pull together for such a rich, restaurant-quality pasta dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients just right is what makes this dish sing, and the beauty is in their simplicity. Each item lends its own magic—whether it’s the juicy chicken, the tangy sun-dried tomatoes, or the creamy parmesan-enhanced sauce, all coming together to create that signature flavor and inviting texture.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts, 1 ½ pounds: Cut into 1-inch pieces for quick, even cooking and juicy bites throughout.
- Penne pasta, 10 ounces: The perfect tubular shape to trap the creamy sauce and sun-dried tomato bits.
- Salt, ½ teaspoon: Enhances all the dish’s flavors subtly and effectively.
- Black pepper, ¼ teaspoon: Adds just the right kick without overpowering the delicate cream sauce.
- Olive oil, 1 tablespoon: Used for browning the chicken to golden perfection, boosting flavor with its fruity notes.
- Butter, 3 tablespoons: Melts into the pan to create a luscious base for your sauce.
- Minced garlic, 2 teaspoons: Infuses a fragrant, slightly spicy warmth that complements the creamy elements.
- All-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons: Acts as a thickening agent for the sauce, making it silky and rich.
- Chicken broth, 2 cups: Creates a savory foundation, balancing creaminess with depth.
- Heavy cream, 1 cup: Provides that indulgent, velvety texture every Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe needs.
- Grated parmesan cheese, 1 cup: Adds nutty, salty richness to the sauce for an authentic Italian touch.
- Sun-dried tomatoes, 1 cup: Delivers bursts of tangy sweetness and colorful vibrancy throughout the dish.
- Paprika, 1 teaspoon: Smoking notes elevate the flavor with subtle warmth and depth.
- Dried Italian seasoning, 2 teaspoons: A blend of herbs that perfectly harmonizes the savory components.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Final seasoning adjustments to bring everything into balance.
- Fresh basil, chopped: Brightens the dish with fresh, herbal aromatics and a pop of green.
- Additional parmesan cheese (optional): For sprinkling on top when serving, adding extra cheesy goodness.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your penne pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. This ensures it reaches that perfect al dente texture, ready to soak up the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain it well and set it aside so you can focus on crafting that irresistible sauce.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
Pat the chicken pieces dry, then season them generously with salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, and then add the chicken. Cook until each piece is golden brown and fully cooked through—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken and give it a well-deserved rest while you work your sauce magic.
Step 3: Build the Flavorful Sauce Base
Without cleaning the skillet, melt the butter in the same pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for just about 30 seconds, releasing those gorgeous aromas that make your kitchen irresistible. Next, whisk in the flour, stirring constantly to create a smooth roux. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce later on, giving it that luscious texture you want.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid any lumps. Then stir in the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and dried Italian seasoning. Let the simmer bring out the rich flavors and thicken the sauce, usually in about 3 to 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper, because seasoning is what elevates this sauce from good to unforgettable.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken pieces and drained pasta to the skillet. Carefully fold everything together so the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce, and the chicken rewarms without drying out. This final step melds all those incredible ingredients into one harmonious dish that’s begging to be served.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are not just a pop of color; they provide a burst of herbal brightness that perfectly balances the richness of the sauce. Don’t forget to grate some extra parmesan on top for a melty, cheesy finish that makes each bite even more decadent.
Side Dishes
This creamy chicken pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette, helping to cut through the richness. Garlic bread is also an excellent companion, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli add a nutritious contrast and lovely texture.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe in shallow bowls and scatter the fresh basil and parmesan in an artful way. Add a drizzle of good quality olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes if you prefer a little heat. You can even garnish with toasted pine nuts or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten things even further.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Just be aware that the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly after thawing, so gentle reheating is key.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating or curdling. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating helps restore the sauce’s creamy texture and keeps the pasta from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is traditional for this recipe because it holds the sauce well, feel free to experiment with rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
Is there a way to make the sauce lighter?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, but keep in mind the sauce may be less rich and creamy. Another option is to reduce the amount of butter used or use a bit of olive oil instead.
Can I prepare the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and pasta separately in advance. Assemble and heat the sauce just before serving to retain its fresh, creamy flavor and perfect texture.
What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, roasted cherry tomatoes or fire-roasted red peppers can add a similar burst of flavor, though the texture and taste will vary slightly.
Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
To make this gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free pasta. Also, check that your chicken broth is gluten-free to avoid any hidden gluten.
Final Thoughts
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe has an unbeatable combination of creamy textures, bold flavors, and comforting warmth that will quickly become one of your go-to meals. It’s straightforward enough for a weeknight meal yet special enough to wow guests. I can’t wait for you to try it—trust me, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds and maybe even that special ‘marry me’ moment!
Print
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich and creamy Italian-inspired dish that features tender chicken pieces cooked in a luscious sun-dried tomato and parmesan cream sauce, served over perfectly al dente penne pasta. This comforting meal is quick to prepare and loaded with bold flavors, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 10 ounces penne pasta
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Additional parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry and season evenly with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden on the outside and no longer pink inside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce base: In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Make the roux: Whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour into the melted butter and garlic mixture until smooth and well combined, cooking for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Gradually pour in 2 cups of chicken broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Then stir in 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup grated parmesan cheese, 1 cup drained sun-dried tomatoes, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning.
- Simmer the sauce: Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a creamy consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
- Combine pasta and chicken: Add the cooked chicken pieces and drained pasta back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir thoroughly to ensure everything is well coated and heated through evenly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped basil and extra parmesan cheese if preferred. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil can be used for a richer flavor; just reduce olive oil added for cooking.
- Use gluten-free flour and pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to prevent the sauce from breaking.
