Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

There’s a reason this dish is called Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Creamy, rich, and packed with flavor, it’s the kind of meal that leaves a lasting impression—perfect for a romantic date night or an easy yet elegant weeknight dinner. Imagine tender bites of juicy chicken wrapped in a velvety parmesan cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. It’s indulgent, yet surprisingly simple to make.

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This pasta has gone viral for a reason. It brings together comfort food vibes with restaurant-quality taste, all in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for someone special or just want to treat yourself to a delicious homemade meal, marry me chicken pasta is always a good idea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in about 30 minutes.
• Crowd-pleasing flavors – Creamy, garlicky, cheesy, with sun-dried tomato zing.
• Elegant but simple – Looks and tastes gourmet, no fancy techniques needed.
• One-skillet dish – Easy cleanup and efficient prep.

Preparation Phase

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to get organized. This recipe moves quickly, so having everything prepped and within reach will help things run smoothly.

Prep Tips

• Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces (about 1 inch) for even cooking.
• Boil pasta while preparing the sauce to save time.
• Use fresh grated parmesan for the best flavor and texture.

Essential Tools and Equipment

To make marry me chicken pasta efficiently, you’ll need:

• Large skillet or sauté pan – Ideal for building the sauce and finishing the dish.
• Medium pot – To cook your pasta to al dente perfection.
• Sharp knife & cutting board – For prepping chicken and basil.
• Whisk – Crucial for combining the cream sauce without lumps.
• Measuring spoons and cups – Ensures balanced flavor.

Why Each Tool Matters

The skillet is where the sauce magic happens. A wide surface area helps the sauce reduce evenly and makes it easier to toss the pasta with the chicken. A whisk helps create a smooth, creamy sauce without clumps. Using a sharp knife helps you prep the chicken quickly and cleanly, which saves time and helps the pieces cook evenly.

Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

For the Chicken & 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

For the 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

For Garnish

• Fresh basil, chopped
• Additional parmesan cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season and Sauté the Chicken
   Toss chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
3. Make the Roux
   In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add flour and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
4. Build the Sauce
   Slowly whisk in chicken broth, followed by heavy cream. Add parmesan cheese and stir until smooth.
5. Add Flavor
   Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine and Serve
   Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly with the sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes more to let flavors meld. Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan before serving.

Variations and Tips

• Swap penne with rigatoni or fettuccine.
• Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for richer flavor.
• Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Make it gluten-free with GF pasta and flour alternatives.

This marry me chicken pasta is more than just a catchy name—it’s a recipe that delivers every time. In the next section, we’ll explore how to serve it beautifully, pair it with perfect sides, and avoid common mistakes to keep your sauce creamy and flawless.

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How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta + Pairings and Common Pitfalls

Once your marry me chicken pasta is simmered to creamy perfection, the only thing left is presentation and pairing. Whether you’re plating for a date night or dishing out seconds at the family table, the right sides and serving approach can elevate this dish from delicious to unforgettable.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is bold and indulgent, so it pairs well with light, bright, or crisp accompaniments to balance the creaminess. Here’s how to serve it for maximum impact.

• Serve in a shallow bowl or rimmed plate to showcase the creamy sauce and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Top with fresh basil just before serving for color and freshness.
• Add an extra sprinkle of parmesan at the table to let guests customize richness.
• Drizzle with a little reserved pasta water or broth if the sauce thickens while sitting.
• For a special presentation, plate with tongs and gently twist pasta into a nest shape in the center of the plate.

This recipe serves well as a standalone meal, but you can build a complete dinner experience with the right sides.

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8 Perfect Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Balance out the creaminess with these light or flavorful sides. Each complements the dish without overpowering it.

1. Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is a timeless pasta companion. Its texture contrasts the creamy sauce, and the flavor pairs perfectly with garlic and parmesan notes.

2. Caesar Salad

Romaine, croutons, parmesan, and Caesar dressing add crispness and tang. A chilled salad before or alongside the pasta balances the dish’s richness.

3. Roasted Asparagus

Lightly roasted asparagus with olive oil and lemon zest brings brightness and a healthy contrast to the dish.

4. Caprese Salad

Sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, finished with balsamic glaze, echo the Italian-inspired flavors of marry me chicken pasta while adding freshness.

5. Steamed Broccoli

Mild and nutrient-rich, broccoli holds up well next to the pasta. A squeeze of lemon over the top enhances flavor without heaviness.

6. Bruschetta

Fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil served over toasted baguette slices add a vibrant texture and acidity that balances the creamy pasta.

7. Zucchini Noodles

For a low-carb addition or lighter pairing, zucchini noodles sautéed in olive oil offer a refreshing vegetable twist.

8. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

Simple but flavorful, sautéed spinach cooked with olive oil and garlic complements the pasta without competing for attention.

Choose one or two of these sides based on your audience and occasion. For a casual meal, garlic bread and Caesar salad work well. For a romantic dinner, roasted asparagus and caprese salad feel elegant and intentional.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid with Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To keep your dish creamy and flavorful, avoid these common pitfalls.

Overcooking the Chicken

Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough.
Fix: Cut chicken into equal-sized pieces and cook just until golden and done—about 6–8 minutes.

Letting the Sauce Break or Separate

Cream-based sauces can break when overheated or not stirred correctly.
Fix: Cook sauce over medium heat, and whisk continuously when adding liquids and cheese.

Skipping the Roux Step

The flour and butter roux helps thicken the sauce. Without it, the texture becomes thin or uneven.
Fix: Don’t rush the roux—cook it until it smells slightly nutty and the flour is golden before adding broth and cream.

Using Pre-Shredded Parmesan

Bagged parmesan contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Fix: Grate your own cheese for the best melting quality and flavor.

Undercooking or Overcooking the Pasta

Mushy or too-firm pasta ruins the texture.
Fix: Cook the pasta until just al dente, then toss with the sauce where it will finish cooking and absorb flavor.

Not Seasoning at Each Step

Layered seasoning makes a huge difference.
Fix: Taste and adjust seasoning after adding chicken broth, then again before serving.

Pro Recipe Tips for Perfect Results

These tips will help you customize the dish while avoiding common pitfalls:

Use Freshly Grated Parmesan

Pre-shredded cheese contains fillers that prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated parmesan gives the sauce a creamier consistency and stronger flavor.

Don’t Skip the Roux

The butter and flour mixture is key for thickening the sauce without it becoming clumpy. Take time to whisk it well before adding the liquids.

Add Heat for Extra Depth

If you enjoy a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. It balances the richness and adds dimension to the sauce.

Make it Vegetarian

Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein. The sauce still holds its creamy, savory appeal with these variations.

Use Oil-Packed Sun-Dried Tomatoes

They’re more flavorful than dry-packed versions. Just drain them well before adding to the sauce.

Save Pasta Water

If your sauce becomes too thick, a splash of pasta water brings it back to a silky texture without diluting flavor.

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How to Store Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Proper storage makes this dish ideal for leftovers or meal prep. The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day.

Refrigeration

• Let the pasta cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Avoid letting the pasta sit out too long, as the creamy sauce can spoil quickly.

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How to Reheat Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency, reheat gently and avoid high heat.

Stovetop Method (Recommended)

1. Add a splash of chicken broth, cream, or milk to a skillet.
2. Add the pasta and reheat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
3. If needed, add more liquid a tablespoon at a time to loosen the sauce.

Microwave Method

1. Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish.
2. Add a splash of cream or broth and loosely cover.
3. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

Avoid overheating, which can cause the sauce to break or dry out the chicken.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Marry me chicken pasta is a creamy chicken and pasta dish made with parmesan, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. It’s named for its rich, “love at first bite” flavor that’s said to be marriage proposal-worthy.

Why is it called “Marry Me Chicken”?

The name originated from a version of the dish so flavorful that it was jokingly said to inspire marriage proposals. The creamy, comforting flavor profile makes it perfect for romantic occasions.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free penne pasta and replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the sauce.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half and half, whole milk with a bit of butter, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. Keep in mind that substitutions may slightly alter the texture and richness.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the dish fully, then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving. The flavors often deepen when made ahead.

Can I freeze marry me chicken pasta?

Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy-based sauce, which may separate when thawed. For best results, enjoy within 3 days of preparation.

What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?

Penne holds the sauce well, but you can also use rigatoni, rotini, or fettuccine. Choose a shape with grooves or ridges to catch the creamy sauce.

How can I make it spicier?

Add ¼ to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes to the sauce, or stir in a bit of hot sauce. Taste and adjust to your heat preference.

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Final Thoughts

Marry me chicken pasta is more than a viral sensation—it’s a rich, creamy, and satisfying meal that feels like a celebration in every bite. Its balance of tender chicken, bold sun-dried tomatoes, and velvety parmesan sauce makes it a go-to for both casual nights and special occasions.

This recipe invites flexibility. You can tailor it to your diet, spice preference, or schedule. Whether you’re impressing a guest or enjoying a solo comfort meal, this dish delivers. Try it once, and you may find yourself returning to it again and again.

For more pasta dishes and creamy chicken recipes, explore our recipe archive or check out how to make garlic parmesan chicken alfredo for a similar flavor profile.