If you’re searching for a creamy, flavor-packed pasta dish that’s winning hearts all over social media and dinner tables alike, look no further than Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This dish features tender seared chicken nestled in a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and an irresistible sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s comfort food at its absolute best, and I can genuinely say it’s the kind of meal that keeps everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Whether you’re looking to impress someone or just treat yourself, Marry Me Chicken Pasta always delivers.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta so special is the way every simple ingredient shines through and plays a vital role in building layers of flavor. Each item pulls its weight, lending creaminess, zest, or a pop of color you absolutely want in every comforting bite.

Chicken breasts: For maximum tenderness, use thinly sliced boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken cutlets!)
Salt & pepper: Season both sides generously to bring out every delicious nuance in the chicken.
Olive oil: A quick sear in olive oil gives your chicken a golden, flavorful crust.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic deepens the sauce with aromatic richness—don’t skip it!
Red pepper flakes: Just a pinch adds irresistible warmth without overwhelming the dish.
Sun-dried tomatoes: These tangy, chewy gems are a signature twist that sets Marry Me Chicken Pasta apart.
Chicken broth: Enhances the sauce’s depth; low-sodium is great for adjusting the seasoning to your taste.
Heavy cream: Delivers that velvety, dreamy texture that makes the sauce cling beautifully to pasta.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best, melting right into the sauce for that signature savory punch.
Dried Italian herbs: Think basil, oregano, or a blend—these bring a lovely fragrance and herby sparkle.
Pasta: Short shapes like penne or rigatoni work great; cook just to al dente for perfect texture.
Fresh basil (optional): A scattering of fresh basil at the end really brings this dish to life with a pop of green.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken pieces. Sear each side for about 4–5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through—don’t rush this part, as the caramelization adds loads of flavor! Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside while you build your sauce.

Step 2: Create the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring frequently until fragrant—just about 30 seconds. This step unlocks the savory and slightly spicy backbone of your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, setting the stage for major deliciousness.

Step 3: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Deglaze

Stir the chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the garlic oil, letting them sizzle and soften. Next, pour in a splash of chicken broth, scraping up all the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This deglazing step infuses your sauce with fantastic depth you won’t want to miss.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Reduce the heat to low, then slowly pour in the heavy cream. Stir it all together and watch the sauce take on a dreamy, silky texture. Sprinkle in your freshly grated Parmesan cheese and dried Italian herbs; keep stirring until the cheese has melted fully into the sauce.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Slice your cooked chicken and return it to the skillet, letting it soak up the sauce for a few minutes. Meanwhile, cook your pasta according to package directions, just to al dente. Drain the pasta and add it straight to the skillet with the chicken and sauce, tossing until every piece is generously coated.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Taste the Marry Me Chicken Pasta and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Parmesan as needed. If you like, top with chopped fresh basil for a hint of brightness. Serve hot—and prepare for compliments!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

I love showering this pasta with extra Parmesan right before serving—it’s the ultimate finishing touch. For even more color and freshness, a sprinkle of chopped basil or parsley elevates every plate. If you want to impart a little extra kick, a dash of crushed red pepper on top does wonders.

Side Dishes

This indulgent pasta shines when paired with something crisp and light. Try a simple mixed green salad with a zesty vinaigrette, or perhaps some roasted broccoli or asparagus. And, let’s be honest—no one’s ever sad about a warm, crusty piece of garlic bread alongside Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting, try plating the pasta in shallow bowls with chicken fanned across the top and sauce spooned artfully over everything. For weeknights, serve family-style right from the skillet for that cozy, everyone-help-themselves feeling. If you want to impress, drizzle with extra cream and Parmesan at the table for a restaurant-worthy moment.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer them into an airtight container. Marry Me Chicken Pasta will keep beautifully for up to three days in the fridge. The flavors actually seem to deepen overnight, making it a fantastic next-day lunch.

Freezing

While you can freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta, creamy sauces sometimes separate when thawed. For best results, freeze only the chicken and sauce, then cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to enjoy again. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to maintain the lush texture.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or cream over medium-low heat. Stir frequently until warmed through, adding more liquid if needed to revive the luscious sauce. Microwave reheating works too—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to keep it creamy.

FAQs

Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, making them a great swap. Just be sure to adjust cooking time as thighs may need a few extra minutes to cook through.

Is there a lighter version of this recipe?

For a lighter take, use half-and-half in place of heavy cream, and consider using whole wheat pasta. You’ll retain the creamy goodness of Marry Me Chicken Pasta with fewer calories.

Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta gluten free?

Yes—simply use your favorite gluten free pasta, and double check that your chicken broth and sun-dried tomatoes are certified gluten free. The sauce itself is naturally gluten free!

Could I add vegetables to the dish?

Go for it! Baby spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or chopped roasted red peppers would all work beautifully in Marry Me Chicken Pasta, adding extra color and nutrition.

What pasta shapes work best?

Short or tubular shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli cling to the sauce best, but honestly, any pasta you love will soak up those dreamy flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta truly is a showstopper—rich, comforting, and a genuine crowd-pleaser. I hope you treat yourself and your favorite people to a big bowl soon. Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a permanent request at your own dinner table!

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe