Ever dreamt of a dish that could win someone over in an instant? Marry Me Chicken Pasta is that delightful bowl of creamy goodness you never knew you needed! This dish combines succulent chicken with pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and a dreamy cream sauce that will have you hearing wedding bells in no time. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder—leaving your kitchen clean while your taste buds are throwing a party!

Why Make This Recipe

Why should you whip up this dish? Here are a couple of reasons to keep your kitchen buzzing:

Effortless Clean-Up: Who wants to spend hours washing dishes? Not you! With just one skillet needed, you’ll be enjoying your meal in no time.
Family Favorite: It’s creamy, it’s savory, and kids love it! Your family will be asking for seconds (and thirds) before you even put the forks down. 👏

Ingredients:

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

1 tablespoon olive oil
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
10 ounces penne pasta
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained (oil-packed for best flavor)
3 tablespoons butter (Kerrygold recommended for richness)
2 cups chicken broth
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon paprika
1 cup heavy cream (at room temperature)
3 tablespoons flour
2 teaspoons minced garlic (preferably fresh)

Directions:

Boil the pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Al dente pasta should be firm to the bite, perfectly holding the sauce’s flavors. Drain the pasta and reserve some pasta water for later.
Sear the chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chicken. Sear for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The aroma of seasoned chicken should fill the kitchen. Remove chicken from skillet, let it rest, then slice it.
Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then add minced garlic. Sauté until garlic is fragrant but not browned, releasing a rich aroma. Stir in flour, creating a smooth paste. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps for a silky texture.
Add the good stuff: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 2-3 minutes. The sauce will thicken, and the tomatoes infuse their sweet-tangy essence.
Cream it up: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream until well combined, then add the Parmesan. Watch as the cheese melts, enriching the sauce with a creamy consistency and savory depth.
Combine everything: Return the sliced chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed for desired sauce consistency. Serve hot, garnished with more Parmesan and fresh basil.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Overview)

Let’s break it down, shall we? First, you’ll cook the pasta to that perfect al dente moment. While that bubbles away, you’ll work your magic on the chicken, getting it golden and flavorful. Next, harness the power of the skillet to whip up a dreamy sauce with buttery garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Finally, toss everything together like it’s a big family reunion, and voilà! Dinner is served. Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic—it truly makes all the difference!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Garnish your gorgeous pasta with extra Parmesan and fresh basil for that pop of color and freshness. Pair it with a crisp side salad or some garlic bread for crunch. The vibrant red of the sun-dried tomatoes and the creamy sauce will make your dish not just mouth-watering, but also Instagram-worthy! 📸

How to Store Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This delectable dish stays fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Need it to last longer? Pop it in the freezer where it can chill for up to 2 months. When it’s time to revisit this culinary delight, simply reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if it needs a moisture boost. Trust me, your future self will thank you.

Tips to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Pasta water magic: Reserve that starchy water! Just a splash can help your sauce adhere better, bringing everything together.
Cheese upgrade: Go bold with your cheese! Mix in some mozzarella or use a blend of different cheeses for an even richer flavor.
Chicken swap: Want to experiment? Try shrimp or even grilled veggies for a tasty twist.

Variation

Feel like trying something different? You can easily switch it up! Make it vegan by using chickpeas instead of chicken, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. The flavor will still be out of this world!

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep everything and combine just before serving for that freshly made taste.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, just ensure it’s in an airtight container. Perfect for quick meals down the line!

What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream can work like a charm for a lighter version.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!