Looking for a dinner recipe that’s guaranteed to impress? Enter Marry Me Chicken Pasta—a creamy, dreamy dish so irresistible it’s rumored to spark proposals! With tender chicken, a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is packed with rich, comforting flavors. Whether you’re cooking for date night, family dinner, or just treating yourself, this recipe is a winner every single time.
Why Is It Called “Marry Me” Chicken?
Legend has it that this dish is so delicious, it could inspire someone to drop to one knee and propose. While we can’t promise a wedding, we can promise that this creamy, savory pasta will win hearts—and empty plates—in no time.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
To whip up this romantic (or self-indulgent) dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces of pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne work great!)
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Directions for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a shallow dish, mix the flour, garlic powder, and paprika. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
4. Cook the Pasta
- While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
5. Combine Everything
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, coating it evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy the “oohs” and “aahs” at the table.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6 people
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Low-Carb Option: Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lighter version.
- Protein Alternatives: Use boneless pork chops or shrimp instead of chicken.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a hearty meat-free option.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in shredded mozzarella or Asiago cheese for an extra creamy sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Reheat over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to revive the creamy texture.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
Pro Tip: Avoid freezing this dish, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.
10 FAQs About Marry Me Chicken Pasta
1. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce may be slightly thinner. You can thicken it with a bit of cornstarch if needed.
2. What pasta works best for this recipe?
Fettuccine, penne, or linguine are ideal, but any pasta you have on hand will work.
3. Do I have to use sun-dried tomatoes?
While they add a burst of flavor, you can skip them or substitute roasted red peppers.
4. Is this dish spicy?
It’s mildly spicy from the red pepper flakes. Omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.
5. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute gluten-free flour for dredging the chicken.
6. Can I make this ahead of time?
The sauce can be prepared ahead and reheated. Cook the pasta fresh for the best texture.
7. What’s a good side dish for this?
Pair it with garlic bread, roasted asparagus, or a crisp Caesar salad.
8. Can I add wine to the sauce?
Yes, replace 1/4 cup of chicken broth with white wine for extra depth of flavor.
9. How do I know the chicken is cooked?
The internal temperature should read 165°F when measured with a meat thermometer.
10. What if my sauce is too thick?
Add a splash of reserved pasta water or chicken broth to loosen it up.
Conclusion
There’s a reason people rave about Marry Me Chicken Pasta—it’s rich, flavorful, and the perfect way to say “I love you” with food. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this dish never disappoints. So grab your skillet, cook up this creamy masterpiece, and get ready to hear, “This is the best thing I’ve ever eaten!”
Who knows, it might even lead to a proposal—or at least a second helping!