How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta – A Creamy, Flavorful Dish

When it comes to cooking for someone special, you want a dish that’s rich in flavor, visually appealing, and absolutely unforgettable. Enter Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This recipe has quickly become a favorite for dinner parties, weeknight meals, and even special occasions. It’s a meal that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s so good, it might just make someone say “Yes!”

But what makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta stand out from the rest? It’s all about the balance of flavors and textures. The creamy sauce clings to each piece of pasta and chicken, while the sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy kick that cuts through the richness of the cream. Add in the sharpness of parmesan and the freshness of basil, and you’ve got yourself a dish that’s both indulgent and fresh.

Let’s break down everything you need to know to make this recipe your new go-to for impressing friends, family, or your significant other. Plus, we’ll provide some helpful tips and modifications to ensure success every time you make it!

Ingredients and intruction You’ll Need for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

The beauty of Marry Me Chicken Pasta is that it uses common ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s a quick rundown of everything you need:

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 Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Penne Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken:
   While the pasta is cooking, cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.

3. Sear the Chicken:
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and is cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

4. Make the Sauce:
   In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to create a roux (paste).

5. Add the Liquids and Cheese:
   Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the grated parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

6. Stir in the Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Seasonings:
   Add the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning to the sauce. Stir well and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

7. Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce:
   Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained penne pasta. Stir everything together until the chicken and pasta are well coated with the creamy sauce.

8. Garnish and Serve:
   Serve the dish immediately, garnished with fresh chopped basil and extra parmesan cheese, if desired.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Step-by-Step

Now that we have all the ingredients prepped, let’s walk through the simple steps to make this delectable dish. While it looks and tastes like a meal fit for a special occasion, it’s incredibly easy to prepare.

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt to the water and cook your penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and set it aside. Tip: Draining the pasta a little earlier than usual ensures it doesn’t overcook when combined with the sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Season them with a pinch of salt and pepper. This is where the seasoning starts, so don’t skip this step!

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding). Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s no longer pink and fully cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set it aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant. Now, add the flour and stir it into a paste, forming a roux.

Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream. As you whisk, the sauce will begin to thicken. Add the grated parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce, creating a silky smooth texture. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to thicken further. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed.

Step 5: Combine the Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce

Once the sauce is thick and flavorful, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked penne pasta and gently toss to coat everything evenly in the sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

To finish off your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, and prepare for everyone to fall in love with this dish!

Pro Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta

While the steps above are straightforward, here are a few tips to elevate your dish and ensure it’s restaurant-quality:

• Check the Chicken’s Temperature: Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure your chicken is cooked properly. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Add a Touch of Heat: If you like a little spice, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated parmesan might be convenient, but freshly grated cheese will melt more smoothly and add a richer flavor to your sauce.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a bit more chicken broth or cream until it reaches your desired consistency.

How to Store and Reheat Marry Me Chicken Pasta

We know that Marry Me Chicken Pasta is irresistible, but if you happen to have leftovers, don’t worry—you’ll be able to enjoy this dish again the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat it without compromising on flavor or texture:

Storing Leftovers:

1. In the Refrigerator: Place any leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta into an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it in the container.
2. In the Freezer: While not recommended for long-term storage (as pasta can become mushy when frozen), if you need to store leftovers for a longer period, you can freeze the pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Leftovers:

• In the Microwave: When reheating in the microwave, add a splash of cream or chicken broth to keep the sauce moist. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure it heats evenly.
• On the Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Again, add a splash of cream or broth to maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency. This method helps prevent the pasta from drying out.

Variations and Substitutes

One of the best things about Marry Me Chicken Pasta is that it’s highly adaptable to different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some suggestions if you’d like to switch things up or have specific dietary needs:

For a Lighter Version:

• Use Half-and-Half or Milk: Instead of heavy cream, opt for half-and-half or milk to lighten the dish. While it won’t be as rich, it will still provide a creamy texture.
• Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They stay juicy and tender and provide a slightly different flavor profile.

For a Vegetarian Twist:

• Swap Chicken for Tofu: Firm tofu can be marinated and sautéed as a substitute for chicken. It’s a great plant-based option for vegetarians and vegans.
• Add Vegetables: You can incorporate other veggies, such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini, into the sauce for a more robust, vegetable-filled dish.

For Gluten-Free Version:

• Gluten-Free Pasta: Simply swap the penne pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Many gluten-free pasta brands offer penne or similar shapes, so you won’t miss the classic texture.
• Cornstarch: If you need a gluten-free option for thickening the sauce, cornstarch can be used in place of flour. Just make sure to create a slurry with a bit of water before adding it to the sauce.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Dish Worth Saying Yes To

If you’ve been looking for a show-stopping meal that will impress anyone who tries it, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the answer. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, this dish is as heartwarming as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving something comforting, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Don’t forget the personal touches—like freshly grated parmesan, a touch of red pepper flakes, or a sprinkle of fresh basil—that elevate this dish from good to extraordinary. Marry Me Chicken Pasta is versatile, easy to make, and guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table.

Why You Should Make This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner parties.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its combination of flavors, it’s sure to please a wide range of tastes—everyone will love it!
• Comforting Yet Elegant: It’s a hearty meal that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. The creamy sauce and sun-dried tomatoes bring sophistication to the table, making it ideal for a date night or family dinner.
• Customizable: Whether you prefer chicken, tofu, or a vegetable-filled version, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is easily adaptable to your preferences.

Nutritional Breakdown

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content per serving of Marry Me Chicken Pasta to help you stay mindful of your intake while enjoying this delicious meal:

Why Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a Must-Try Recipe

If you’re still wondering why Marry Me Chicken Pasta has become a beloved favorite, consider the following:

1. Quick & Easy: The entire dish comes together in 30 minutes or less—perfect for busy evenings or unexpected guests.
2. Perfect for Special Occasions: The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and savory parmesan make it feel indulgent, making it an ideal choice for date nights, anniversaries, or dinner parties.
3. Simple Ingredients: The recipe calls for basic ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, making it a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
4. Versatile: You can modify the recipe to fit different dietary needs, such as gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegetarian.