Marry Me Chicken Pasta: 5 Surprising Steps to Amazing Flavor

Picture yourself twisting your fork into a creamy, garlicky sauce that covers the pasta, punctuated by sun-dried tomatoes and tender chicken. Marry Me Chicken Pasta’s magic lies in its irresistibly delicious taste, which could lead to a marriage proposal!

The name isn’t just a catchy title; it’s a testament to the dish’s ability to win hearts. Originating from the viral “Marry Me Chicken” recipe, this pasta variation elevates the concept by combining the beloved creamy Tuscan flavors with the comfort of pasta. It’s a meal that promises indulgence without the hassle, ready in about 30 minutes.

What sets this dish apart is its simplicity and versatility. You can create a restaurant-quality meal at home with pantry staples like pasta, chicken, and cream. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or impressing guests. If you’ve enjoyed our Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, this recipe offers a delightful twist with its unique blend of flavors.

Ready to discover the five surprising steps that make this dish a flavor sensation? Let’s dive into the world of Marry Me Chicken Pasta and bring a touch of culinary romance to your table.

What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

The name “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” might raise eyebrows and curiosity. Is it a dish served at weddings? Does it possess magical proposal-inducing powers? While it may not come with a diamond ring, it’s certainly a gem in the culinary world.

The moniker stems from the original “Marry Me Chicken” recipe—a creamy, flavorful chicken dish so good, it’s said to inspire marriage proposals. The pasta version takes this concept further, marrying the rich, creamy sauce with al dente pasta, creating a harmonious blend that’s hard to resist.

Think of it as the culinary embodiment of the saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” But let’s not be gender-specific—this dish has universal appeal. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or treating yourself, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a surefire way to win hearts and taste buds.

So, why not put on your apron and give it a try? Who knows? You might just fall in love at first bite.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta

1. Creamy, Flavor-Packed Delight

At the heart of this dish is a luxurious sauce made with heavy cream, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. Each bite delivers a symphony of flavors—savory, tangy, and slightly sweet—complemented by tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta.

2. Budget-Friendly Gourmet

Why dine out when you can recreate a gourmet experience at home? With accessible ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe offers a cost-effective way to indulge in a restaurant-quality meal without leaving your kitchen.

3. Versatile and Family-Friendly

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a crowd-pleaser. Its rich flavors appeal to adults, while the creamy sauce and pasta make it a hit with kids. Plus, it’s easily adaptable—swap in your favorite pasta shape or add veggies like spinach for extra nutrition.

If you’re a fan of our Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, this recipe offers a delightful variation that brings new excitement to your dinner table.

How to Make This Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Quick Overview

Marry Me Chicken Pasta combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the comfort of pasta, all brought together in a single dish. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, requiring about 30 minutes from start to finish. The key lies in layering flavors—from searing the chicken to simmering the sauce—resulting in a meal that’s both satisfying and impressive.

Key Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken slices with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Toss to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness.

What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To complement the rich flavors of Marry Me Chicken Pasta, consider these side dishes and beverages:

• Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, perfect for sopping up extra sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers add color and nutrition.
• White Wine: A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Top Tips for Perfecting Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, basil, and Parmesan cheese enhance the dish’s flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente texture to prevent mushiness when combined with the sauce.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: Use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
• Customize to Taste: Add spinach for extra greens, or mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Increase red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

Storing and Reheating Tips

• Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Freezing: While possible, freezing may alter the sauce’s texture. If you choose to freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Note: Quick Instructions

Chicken Pasta

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until no longer pink.
4. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the flour and stir to create a paste.
3. Whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
4. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Simmer the sauce for a few minutes until it thickens.
6. Return the chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat with the sauce.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 646 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Protein: 41g
• Fat: 31g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0.2g
• Cholesterol: 145mg
• Sodium: 962mg
• Potassium: 1248mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 10g
• Vitamin A: 1260 IU
• Vitamin C: 9mg
• Calcium: 278mg
• Iron: 3mg