The moment I first served Marry Me Chicken Pasta, I knew I had struck culinary gold. Picture this: golden-brown chicken, tender pasta, and a creamy, garlicky sauce that wraps around every bite like a warm hug. It’s a dish that feels like fine dining yet comes together easily in just 40 minutes. Perfect for impressing that special someone or simply indulging yourself after a long day.
With the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, this pasta dish is anything but ordinary. It brings a comforting elegance to the table, capturing that “wow” factor while being deceptively simple to prepare. Whether you’re hosting friends for dinner or looking to elevate a cozy weeknight meal, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is sure to turn heads and please palates. Join me in the kitchen as we create a dish that’s as inviting as it is delicious!
Why You'll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a restaurant-quality meal in just 40 minutes.
- The rich and creamy sauce filled with sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan brings an explosion of flavor that will leave everyone wanting more.
- Its versatility makes it perfect for both romantic dinners and casual gatherings, adapting to any occasion beautifully.
- With its stunning presentation and mouthwatering aroma, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is sure to impress your guests and create unforgettable dining experiences.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts – Use fresh chicken for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Olive oil – A good quality oil helps achieve a beautiful golden sear.
For the Sauce
• Fresh garlic – Minced garlic will infuse your dish with aromatic goodness.
• Sun-dried tomatoes – These add a tangy sweetness that elevates the creamy sauce.
• Low-sodium chicken broth – Keeps the dish flavorful without overpowering with salt.
• Heavy cream – Provides the luscious richness that makes the sauce irresistible.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese – A must-have for finishing the sauce with just the right nutty kick.
• Italian seasoning – This blend enhances the Mediterranean flavor profile.
For the Pasta
• Fettuccine or penne pasta – Choose your favorite shape; both work wonderfully in this Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Prepare Ingredients: Start by chopping the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. This will have your flavors ready to shine.
Sear Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken breasts for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about one minute until it’s fragrant. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken to the skillet along with the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Cook together for another five minutes until bubbly.
Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, boil water in another pot. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain really well and set aside.
Toss Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta with the creamy sauce mixture until thoroughly combined. Serve garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Optional: Add fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: If you want to keep this dish longer, freeze the pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat the sauce before mixing with the pasta.
Reheating: When reheating, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream can help restore the creamy texture of the sauce.
Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving cooked Marry Me Chicken Pasta out at room temperature for longer than 2 hours, as it can spoil quickly.
Make Ahead Options
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is an ideal dish for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy weeknights! You can prep components like the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes up to 24 hours in advance; simply chop them and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the cooked chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days after searing—just ensure it cools completely before refrigerating. To maintain the dish’s quality when ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and sauce gently over low heat, then toss with freshly cooked pasta for a quick, restaurant-quality meal!
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the rich, creamy flavors of this special dish.
Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery texture is perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce, making every bite a treat.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed with tangy dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta, balancing each mouthful.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers bring a light charred flavor, adding an earthy element that enhances the meal.
Lemon Herb Rice: This bright side dish introduces a zesty kick, perfectly cutting through the richness of the sauce and chicken.
Steamed Asparagus: Tender and slightly crunchy, asparagus provides a vibrant pop of color and a fresh taste that complements the overall richness.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc adds a crisp, refreshing quality, heightening the flavors and making each sip as enjoyable as the dish.
Tiramisu: For dessert, this classic Italian treat adds a luscious finish to your meal, leaving guests with a sweet, memorable experience.
Serve any of these alongside your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, and watch as your dining table transforms into a culinary delight!
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Variations
Feel free to let your creativity flourish while making this dish—there’s a world of flavors to explore!
Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a rich flavor without dairy.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic for a warm, spicy twist that will tantalize your taste buds.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate spinach or kale during the simmering process for added nutrients and a vibrant pop of color in every bite.
Mushroom Medley: Include sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth that complements the sun-dried tomatoes beautifully—perfect for mushroom lovers!
Zesty Citrus: Squeeze some fresh lemon juice into the sauce just before serving to brighten the flavors and add a refreshing zing.
Gluten-Free: Swap traditional pasta for gluten-free alternatives, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the magic of this dish.
Pesto Infusion: Stir in a tablespoon of basil pesto to the creamy sauce for an herby burst that elevates the entire dish to new heights.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme to enhance the aromatic experience and add a personal touch to your sauce.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe, always use fresh chicken for optimal flavor and tenderness.
- When searing the chicken, ensure the skillet is hot enough to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust without overcooking the meat.
- Sauté garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness, as it can burn quickly.
- Remember to cook the pasta until just al dente, as it will continue to cook when tossed with the sauce.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! For the best results, use fresh boneless skinless chicken breasts. They provide a tender and juicy texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. If you can’t find fresh, thawed frozen chicken works as well, but fresh is always my first choice!
How should I store leftovers of Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Store any leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, gently reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Yes, you can! To freeze, I recommend storing the pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers. Label your containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat the sauce before tossing it with the pasta for a creamy delight.
What if my sauce is too thick when reheating?
Very! If your sauce thickens too much while reheating, don’t fret. Simply add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to loosen it up. Stir until you achieve the desired creamy consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! This dish contains dairy from the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, which might not be suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals. As for allergies, always ensure the sun-dried tomatoes are allergen-free, especially if they’re packaged. You can easily substitute the cream with a plant-based alternative if needed!
How do I know if my sun-dried tomatoes are still good?
Look for vibrant color and a fresher aroma. If the sun-dried tomatoes have dark spots all over or smell off, it’s best to discard them. Fresh ones should be soft but not mushy and have a sweet, tangy scent.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Ingredients: Start by chopping the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. This will have your flavors ready to shine.
- Sear Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken breasts for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about one minute until it's fragrant. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken to the skillet along with the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Cook together for another five minutes until bubbly.
- Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, boil water in another pot. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain really well and set aside.
- Toss Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta with the creamy sauce mixture until thoroughly combined. Serve garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.