Name: Irresistible Marry Me Chicken Pasta for Romantic Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.); 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing chicken; adds a subtle flavor.); 1 lb pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne) (choose according to your preference.); Salt for pasta water (essential for flavoring the pasta.); 2 tbsp olive oil (for making the sauce.); 4 cloves garlic, minced (provides robust flavor.); 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed (adds sweetness and umami.); 1/2 cup chicken broth (enriches the sauce with depth.); 1 cup heavy cream (creates a rich, creamy sauce.); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds savory richness.); 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (offers freshness and aroma.); 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (introduces heat; optional.); 1 tsp garlic powder (enhances flavor profile.); 1 tsp onion powder (adds sweetness and depth.); 1/2 tsp paprika (provides color and mild heat.); 1/4 tsp salt (enhances overall taste.); 1/4 tsp black pepper (introduces spice and warmth.)

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“Have you ever cooked a meal so divine that it could sweep someone off their feet?” That’s the magic of Marry Me Chicken Pasta—a creamy, dreamy dish that truly lives up to its name. Picture tender chicken mingling with perfectly cooked pasta, all wrapped in a luscious sun-dried tomato Parmesan sauce. This recipe is not only a quick weeknight wonder but also a romance-inspiring delight that guarantees to impress your loved ones. Whether you’re creating a cozy dinner at home or planning a special date night, this dish will be a crowd-pleaser. Best of all, it’s adaptable—you can easily make it gluten-free or dairy-free, catering to different dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor. Curiosity piqued? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Why Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta So Special?

Heavenly Flavors: This dish features a decadent creamy sauce that coats every bite of pasta, marrying the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan for a taste sensation that dances on your palate.

Quick and Easy: You can have this delicious dinner ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous romantic evenings.

Versatile Options: Whether you prefer chicken, shrimp, or tofu, this adaptable recipe allows you to switch up proteins to suit your tastes.

Crowd-Pleaser: Friends and family will rave about this meal; it’s bound to become a staple at your dinner table! Pair it with a refreshing green salad to complete the experience, or serve alongside a selection of crusty bread for the ultimate sauce-sopping indulgence. For other quick chicken delights, check out my Cheesy Garlic Chicken or BBQ Chicken Mac for more inspiration.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Ingredients

For the Chicken

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Main protein; cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Shrimp or Italian sausage are excellent substitutes.
1 tbsp olive oil – For searing chicken; adds a subtle flavor.

For the Pasta

1 lb pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne) – Base of the dish; choose according to your preference or what’s available.
Salt for pasta water – Essential for flavoring the pasta while cooking.

For the Sauce

2 tbsp olive oil – For making the sauce; it enhances the overall taste.
4 cloves garlic, minced – Provides robust flavor; fresh garlic is recommended for an extra kick.
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed – Adds sweetness and umami; substitute with fresh tomatoes if needed.
1/2 cup chicken broth – Enriches the sauce with depth.
1 cup heavy cream – Creates a rich, creamy sauce; feel free to replace with half-and-half for a lighter option.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds savory richness; use more for serving.
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil – Offers freshness and aroma; parsley can be a suitable alternative.
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – Introduces heat; adjust according to taste.

Extras

Seasoning:
1 tsp garlic powder – Enhances flavor profile; fresh garlic can be used for a bolder taste.
1 tsp onion powder – Adds sweetness and depth.
1/2 tsp paprika – Provides color and mild heat.
1/4 tsp salt – Enhances overall taste; adjust to your liking.
1/4 tsp black pepper – Introduces spice and warmth.

Enjoy creating your Marry Me Chicken Pasta! It’s a dish that promises to impress, thanks to its delightful blend of flavors and comforting texture.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Season the Chicken
In a large bowl, toss 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Ensure each piece is well-coated to enhance the flavor of your Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta
In a pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add 1 lb of your choice of pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne) and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water to adjust the sauce later, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Garlic
Return the same skillet to medium heat and add 2 tbsp of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, stirring continuously to prevent burning. This step will infuse the oil with delicious garlicky goodness for your Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Step 5: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Mix in 1/4 cup of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes to the garlic in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their flavors into the oil, ensuring your sauce will be rich and full of depth.

Step 6: Build the Sauce
Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Lower the heat slightly and simmer for 1 minute before stirring in 1 cup of heavy cream. Let this simmer gently for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes luxuriously creamy.

Step 7: Incorporate Parmesan Cheese
Add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the simmering sauce, stirring continuously until it melts and combines with the cream. Adjust the seasoning of the sauce with additional salt, pepper, and 1/4 tsp of red pepper flakes if you’d like a touch of heat for your Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Step 8: Combine Ingredients
Return the seared chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss gently to coat everything evenly, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired sauce consistency. The sauce should cling lovingly to the chicken and pasta, creating a harmonious dish.

Step 9: Finish and Serve
Finally, stir in 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil for an aromatic touch. Serve your Marry Me Chicken Pasta immediately, garnished with more grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh basil on top. The dish is best enjoyed fresh, allowing the flavors to shine through!

Storage Tips for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Fridge: Store leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the dish sealed to prevent moisture loss and preserve the creamy texture.

Freezer: If you’d like to keep it longer, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing to maintain quality.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore creaminess.

Airtight Storage: Always use airtight containers for both refrigeration and freezing to prevent freezer burn and maintain flavor integrity.

Expert Tips for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Perfect Pasta: Always salt your water generously before adding the pasta. This step enhances the overall flavor of your Marry Me Chicken Pasta.
Watch the Garlic: Sauté garlic until fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can add a bitter taste.
Coat Evenly: Toss chicken pieces well with seasonings to ensure each bite is flavorful. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to guarantee even cooking.
Creamy Consistency: If your sauce becomes too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach the desired creamy texture.
Vegetable Boost: For added nutrition, throw in spinach or bell peppers while simmering the sauce. This not only elevates the dish but also makes it visually appealing.

What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the rich and creamy goodness of this irresistible dish.

Simple Green Salad: A refreshing blend of mixed greens with a light lemon vinaigrette balances the creamy sauce beautifully, adding a crisp contrast.
Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up every drop of the creamy sauce, while its warm and toasty flavor enhances the meal’s overall decadence.
Roasted Vegetables: Vibrant veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus provide a textural crunch and a sweet flavor to round out the dish, making it colorful and nutritious.
Seared Spinach: Tender spinach sautéed with garlic offers earthiness and brightness. Its freshness helps cleanse the palate, making each bite of Marry Me Chicken Pasta even more enjoyable.
Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio pairs effortlessly, as its zesty notes accentuate the dish’s flavors while complementing its creamy texture.
Decadent Tiramisu: For dessert, this classic Italian treat is a perfect ending. Its coffee and cocoa notes provide a delightful contrast, leaving your guests enchanted long after the meal.
Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy with fresh herbs, couscous adds an interesting textural layer while harmonizing with the dish’s Mediterranean roots.
Asparagus with Hollandaise: This elegant side dishes combines the richness of hollandaise with the bright crunch of asparagus, making it an indulgent pairing for date night.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing sparkling beverage keeps the meal light while the citrus adds a lovely flair that complements the sun-dried tomatoes.

Make Ahead Options

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a fantastic recipe for meal prep, allowing you to save valuable time on busy weeknights! You can season and sear the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container after cooking. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce (without adding the cream or cheese) and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply warm the sauce, stir in the cream and Parmesan, and then add the chicken and cooked pasta. This way, you enjoy restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort on your part.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Variations

Feel free to make this dish your own with these delightful variations that will tantalize your taste buds!

Shrimp Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist. Just sauté until pink for a delicious alternative.
Italian Sausage: Use Italian sausage for a heartier flavor. The spicy kick complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Vegetable Boost: Add zucchini or bell peppers to the sauce for a colorful veggie infusion. These ingredients enhance both nutrition and texture.
Coconut Cream: For a lighter, dairy-free version, swap heavy cream with coconut cream. This adds a subtle sweetness to your dish.
Gluten-Free option: Use gluten-free pasta varieties to cater to dietary needs; enjoy the same great flavors without the gluten.
Fresh Tomato Twist: Swap out sun-dried tomatoes with fresh cherry tomatoes. Just stir them in for vibrant color and freshness.
Herb Variations: Mix fresh thyme or oregano instead of basil for a different herbal note. This can elevate your dish in unexpected ways.
Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes for a bolder flavor profile. Craving heat? Go ahead and make it spicy!

For more delightful chicken recipes, don’t miss out on my Garlic Chicken Thighs or tempt your palate with Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken. Customize and create the version that speaks to you!

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! When selecting tomatoes, look for vibrant sun-dried tomatoes that are plump and not overly hard. Fresh herbs should be bright and fragrant, indicating freshness. For pasta, pick the shape that you love, but ensure there’s no breakage in the packaging.

How should I store leftovers of Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to seal it well to retain that luscious creaminess. When reheating, a gentle approach is best—try adding a splash of broth or milk to restore the sauce’s silky texture.

Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Certainly! To freeze, let the dish cool completely before portioning it into airtight containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently in a skillet. Adding a bit of liquid will help revive the creamy sauce.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find that your sauce has turned out thicker than expected, simply stir in some reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. This method works wonders, maintaining the creaminess without compromising flavor!

Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to cater to different diets, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free option like cashew cream for a dairy-free variant. You can also make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta varieties. Just ensure to check labels for any allergens if serving to others.