There’s something about sharing a meal that makes life’s moments even more memorable. And when it comes to food that feels special, comforting, and downright swoon-worthy, Marry Me Chicken Pasta takes center stage. This dish has a name as intriguing as its flavor, with a legend that says one bite might just lead to a marriage proposal. While it’s hard to say if the story is true, what’s undeniable is how much this recipe wins over hearts (and taste buds) wherever it’s served.
This pasta recipe has it all: tender, golden chicken, a rich Parmesan cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes adding bursts of tangy sweetness, and just the right amount of spice for warmth. It’s an ideal meal for cozy date nights at home, impressing guests, or even turning an ordinary weeknight into something special. Best of all, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it accessible for even the busiest cooks.
Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible dish and why it’s one that will likely become a go-to in your recipe collection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast and Fuss-Free: This dish delivers gourmet flavors with minimal effort, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its creamy, cheesy goodness appeals to everyone, even picky eaters.
- Romantic Charm: With its indulgent flavors and name, it’s ideal for anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, or any romantic dinner.
- Customizable: You can tweak it to suit your taste—add veggies, adjust the spice, or experiment with your favorite pasta shapes.
- Great for Leftovers: It reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy the creamy goodness even the next day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to recreate this luscious dish:
- 8 oz dried pasta of your choice (penne, rigatoni, or bowtie pasta work great)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook it until al dente, according to the package instructions. Al dente pasta has just the right amount of firmness to pair perfectly with a creamy sauce. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, which you’ll use to adjust the sauce later. Set the cooked pasta aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and butter, letting it cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base that will elevate the entire dish.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Sprinkle them with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir occasionally, letting the chicken cook evenly until golden brown and cooked through—this should take about 5-7 minutes. The chicken pieces should be tender and juicy, ready to soak up the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, which add tangy sweetness and depth to the dish. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your liking. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the sauce until each piece is coated in creamy goodness. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and, if you’d like, an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy every luscious bite of this romantic and hearty dish.
Helpful Tips
- Pasta Choices: Short, sturdy pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni are perfect for holding the sauce, but feel free to use what you have on hand.
- Using Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If you use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, blot off any excess oil before chopping. They add a deliciously concentrated flavor.
- Extra Creaminess: For an even richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or a dollop of sour cream.
- Adjusting Spice: Love heat? Add more red pepper flakes to amp up the spice level. Prefer it milder? Omit the flakes altogether.
- Perfect Garnish: Fresh basil not only adds flavor but also a pop of vibrant color that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for a vegetarian-friendly twist.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time. Reheat them gently on the stovetop, then toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 620
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken for turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative. The sauce might not be as rich, but it will still be delicious.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Spinach, kale, or mushrooms make excellent additions. Stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking to maintain their texture and color.
How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?
Use the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce to your desired consistency. Add it little by little while stirring until it’s just right.
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Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than a meal—it’s an invitation to create memories around the dinner table. The creamy, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes come together to make every bite feel like a celebration. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one, a group of friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to leave everyone smitten. So, grab your skillet, roll up your sleeves, and let the magic of this dish unfold in your kitchen!
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Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Description
There’s something about sharing a meal that makes life’s moments even more memorable. And when it comes to food that feels special, comforting, and downright swoon-worthy, Marry Me Chicken Pasta takes center stage. This dish has a name as intriguing as its flavor, with a legend that says one bite might just lead to a marriage proposal. While it’s hard to say if the story is true, what’s undeniable is how much this recipe wins over hearts (and taste buds) wherever it’s served.
This pasta recipe has it all: tender, golden chicken, a rich Parmesan cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes adding bursts of tangy sweetness, and just the right amount of spice for warmth. It’s an ideal meal for cozy date nights at home, impressing guests, or even turning an ordinary weeknight into something special. Best of all, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it accessible for even the busiest cooks.
Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible dish and why it’s one that will likely become a go-to in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 8 oz dried pasta of your choice (penne, rigatoni, or bowtie pasta work great)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook it until al dente, according to the package instructions. Al dente pasta has just the right amount of firmness to pair perfectly with a creamy sauce. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, which you’ll use to adjust the sauce later. Set the cooked pasta aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and butter, letting it cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base that will elevate the entire dish.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Sprinkle them with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir occasionally, letting the chicken cook evenly until golden brown and cooked through—this should take about 5-7 minutes. The chicken pieces should be tender and juicy, ready to soak up the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, which add tangy sweetness and depth to the dish. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your liking. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the sauce until each piece is coated in creamy goodness. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and, if you’d like, an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy every luscious bite of this romantic and hearty dish.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for a vegetarian-friendly twist.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time. Reheat them gently on the stovetop, then toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.