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Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta – Rich, Romantic & Crowd-Favorite Dinner

Some dinners are so good they earn a legendary name—and Marry Me Chicken Pasta is one of them. This dish brings together juicy chicken, tender pasta, and a luxuriously creamy parmesan sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and sun-dried tomatoes. Every bite is comforting, indulgent, and unforgettable. Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or anytime you want a meal that feels special without being complicated, this creamy chicken pasta is made entirely without alcohol or pork, while still delivering deep, restaurant-style flavor. It’s rich, cozy, and guaranteed to impress.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Simple ingredients layered for maximum creamy flavor.
Protein
  • 1½ lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs
Pasta
  • 12 oz pasta penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine
Cooking Fat
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Aromatics & Flavor
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste
Sauce Base
  • ¾ cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 3 oz sun-dried tomatoes sliced
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Fresh Finish
  • ¼ cup fresh basil chopped

Equipment

  • Large pot (for pasta)
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Tongs or spatula

Method
 

  1. Follow these steps for perfectly creamy marry me chicken pasta.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions.
  3. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
  1. Season chicken with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.
  4. Remove chicken, slice, and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
  1. Reduce heat to medium.
  2. Add minced garlic to the same skillet and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up browned bits.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
  1. Add heavy cream and sun-dried tomatoes.
  2. Simmer 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. Stir in parmesan cheese until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Everything
  1. Add cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce.
  2. Toss gently to coat.
  3. Add reserved pasta water if needed for a silky texture.
Step 6: Finish
  1. Remove from heat.
  2. Fold in fresh basil.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Freezing
Not recommended due to the cream sauce.
🥄 Variations
Customize your marry me chicken pasta:
Extra Creamy
Add an additional ¼ cup heavy cream.
Spinach Addition
Stir in fresh spinach until wilted.
Chicken Thigh Version
Use thighs for extra juiciness.
Milder Flavor
Reduce garlic slightly.
One-Pan Option
Cook pasta separately, then finish everything in one skillet.
❓ 10 FAQs
Why is it called Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Because it’s so delicious it wins hearts instantly.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it’s rich and savory with mild warmth.
Can I use another pasta shape?
Yes, any short or long pasta works.
Does parmesan thicken the sauce?
Yes, it adds richness and body.
Is this kid-friendly?
Absolutely—creamy and comforting.
Can I make it ahead?
Best fresh, but reheats well.
What makes the sauce silky?
Cream, parmesan, and pasta water.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger pan.
Is this a full meal?
Yes, hearty and satisfying on its own.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, spinach or mushrooms work well.
🏁 Conclusion
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort-meets-romance dinner. Creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a dish that feels luxurious yet easy. Whether you’re cooking for someone special or treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Once you make it, don’t be surprised if it becomes one of your most requested dinners.