Marry Me Chicken Pasta : Creamy & Flavorful

If you’re looking for a rich, creamy, and absolutely irresistible pasta dinner recipe, then this Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the dish for you! This flavorful meal is packed with tender, juicy chicken, a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, making it a great option for easy pasta dinner nights, romantic meals, or even special occasions.

The name Marry Me Chicken comes from the idea that this dish is so delicious it could inspire a marriage proposal! Whether you’re cooking for your family, impressing your partner, or simply craving pastas recipes that feel restaurant-quality, this meal is perfect.

Best of all, this is one of the fast dinner recipes you can whip up in just 30–40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into this creamy, flavorful pasta with chicken recipe that might just become one of your favorite recipes for dinner!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy – A fast dinner recipe that takes under 45 minutes to prepare.
Rich & Creamy Sauce – A luxurious mix of garlic, parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether for date night, family dinner, or a special meal, this recipe is always a hit.
Customizable – Works with different pasta types, proteins, or spice levels.

Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

For the Chicken & Pasta

2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
10 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)

For the Creamy Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon fresh basil (for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large skillet or sauté pan
Pasta pot
Cutting board and sharp knife
Tongs for flipping chicken
Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add your preferred pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Season & Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits for extra flavor.
Stir in heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning.
Reduce heat and let simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add Parmesan & Combine

Stir in parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce is smooth.
Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the pan.
Add the cooked pasta, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce.
If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately and enjoy your Marry Me Chicken Pasta!

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Pasta – Cook only until al dente to prevent mushy pasta.
Skipping the Chicken Rest Time – Letting it rest helps retain juices for more tender bites.
Not Deglazing the Pan – Scraping up browned bits from the pan enhances the sauce’s depth.

Variations & Substitutions

Spicy Version – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
Dairy-Free Alternative – Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream.
Vegetarian Option – Swap the chicken for mushrooms, tofu, or zucchini.
Different Pasta Choices – Works well with fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serve with garlic bread or a fresh Caesar salad.
Garnish with extra parmesan and basil for a restaurant-style finish.
For an elegant touch, serve in pasta bowls with lemon wedges on the side.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months (without pasta for best texture).
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.

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FAQs About Marry Me Chicken Pasta

1. Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! This recipe works well with penne, fettuccine, spaghetti, or rigatoni.

2. How do I thicken the sauce?
If the sauce is too thin, simmer for a few extra minutes, or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the sauce and chicken in advance, then reheat and toss with fresh pasta before serving.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the ultimate easy pasta dinner—rich, creamy, and bursting with bold flavors. Whether you’re making it for a romantic dinner or a fast dinner recipe for busy nights, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Try it today and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to share this recipe and subscribe for more favorite recipes for dinner!