If you’re looking for a romantic, creamy, and flavorful dish to impress your partner, family, or even just yourself, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect choice. This dish combines tender chicken breasts, a rich and creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, and pasta for a meal that’s indulgent and irresistible. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to wow everyone at the table.
Let me show you how to make this delectable, heart-winning dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy sauce: The sun-dried tomatoes and cream create a luxurious flavor.
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s date night or a family dinner, this dish is a showstopper.
- Flavor-packed chicken: The chicken is juicy, flavorful, and full of character.
- Easy to make: A relatively simple recipe with impressive results.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
To make this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for more flavor)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing the chicken)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (jarred, drained and chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or any pasta of your choice)
- Fresh basil (chopped, for garnish)
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the pasta.
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce later.
Step 2: Prepare and cook the chicken.
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce.
In the same skillet, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic, and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken and become creamy.
Step 4: Combine the pasta and chicken.
Return the chicken to the skillet and nestle it into the creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta, tossing everything together until the pasta is coated in the rich sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Garnish and serve.
Garnish the dish with freshly chopped basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Use full-fat cream: For the richest, most decadent sauce, opt for full-fat heavy cream.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy.
- Customize the pasta: Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer — rigatoni, penne, or spaghetti all work great!
- Add veggies: For a little extra color and nutrition, add spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers to the sauce.
- Make it spicier: If you love spice, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This dish is amazing on its own, but it pairs perfectly with:
- A side salad: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette will balance the richness of the dish.
- Garlic bread: Serve with warm, crispy garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or a medley of roasted veggies would be a great complement.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here’s an estimate for one serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: ~550
- Protein: ~35g
- Carbs: ~40g
- Fat: ~30g
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of cream or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well! Let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.
Conclusion
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comforting meal that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Creamy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned, it’s guaranteed to impress. Whether it’s for a romantic date night or a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to steal your heart!
I’d love to know how it turns out. Feel free to share your thoughts, and enjoy the deliciousness!
Hi, I’m Emma Collins, a 24-year-old mom of two daughters and a little boy who keeps life full of energy. Cooking is my passion and my way of bringing my family together. Whether I’m experimenting with new recipes or perfecting old favorites, I love making meals that are simple, delicious, and full of love. As a busy mom, I’ve learned how to keep things quick and easy without sacrificing flavor. I’m excited to share my recipes and tips with you, hoping they inspire you to create memorable moments in your own kitchen with your loved ones.
