Go Back
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Pin Recipe Print Recipe

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This creamy and flavorful Marry Me Chicken Pasta blends tender chicken, rich parmesan cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly cooked penne for a dish that’s as comforting as it is crave-worthy. It’s fast enough for busy weeknights but elegant enough for a romantic dinner, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Keyword: creamy chicken pasta, date night pasta, marry me chicken pasta, sun-dried tomato pasta
Servings: 6
Calories: 646kcal

Ingredients

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 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

Instructions

  • Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, until fully cooked. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
  • Slowly whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
  • Add sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Taste and adjust with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  • Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
  • Return the chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.
  • Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

For extra flavor, use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained well.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta water or extra chicken broth.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a bit of broth or cream.