Looking for a dinner recipe that’s indulgent, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress? Marry Me Chicken Pasta is your answer! This creamy, savory dish features tender, juicy chicken served over pasta, all coated in a rich, decadent sauce that’s flavored with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and a touch of cream. It’s the kind of meal that will have your loved ones asking for seconds (and maybe even a proposal!).
The beauty of this dish lies in the balance of flavors. The creamy sauce is slightly tangy from the sun-dried tomatoes, savory from the garlic, and has just the right amount of depth from the chicken. The dish is quick to make, yet feels indulgent enough for a special occasion. Perfect for date night, family dinners, or a cozy weeknight treat!
Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible Marry Me Chicken Pasta.
Why Marry Me Chicken Pasta Is So Special
What makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta so special is its rich and creamy sauce, combined with the savory goodness of perfectly cooked chicken and al dente pasta. The garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and a touch of cream come together in a sauce that’s both indulgent and comforting.
The name of this dish speaks volumes—it’s the kind of meal that’s so delicious, it could make someone fall in love with you! Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or treating yourself to a luxurious dinner, this dish is sure to make an impression.
Key Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
The ingredients in Marry Me Chicken Pasta come together in perfect harmony to create an irresistible dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Serves 4)
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika (for color and flavor)
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking the pasta)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (julienned, drained if using jarred)
- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for richness)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for flavor)
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh basil (chopped)
- Additional Parmesan cheese
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Making Marry Me Chicken Pasta is easy and quick, with just a few simple steps to create a creamy, indulgent meal. Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Marry Me Chicken Pasta
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 5-6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest while you make the sauce. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken tender.
2. Cook the Pasta:
- While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water to help thicken the sauce later.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
- In the same skillet you used for the chicken, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for another 2 minutes to release their flavor.
- Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and dried oregano (or Italian seasoning). Stir to combine.
- Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing it to reduce and thicken slightly.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, and continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste.
4. Combine the Pasta and Chicken:
- Slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
- Add the sliced chicken on top of the pasta and gently toss again to combine.
5. Serve and Garnish:
- Plate the pasta and chicken, and garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately, and enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness of Marry Me Chicken Pasta!
Serving Suggestions for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This dish is already a full meal on its own, but you can pair it with some delicious sides to round out the experience.
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Garlic Bread: Serve with crispy garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce and make it even more indulgent.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or a simple green salad provide a light, fresh contrast to the richness of the pasta.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and a tangy dressing is a great complement.
Beverage Pairing for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- White Wine: A Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc would pair well with the creaminess of the dish.
- Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, a glass of sparkling water with lemon adds a refreshing touch to balance the richness of the pasta.
Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To keep the chicken juicy and tender, avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Use Heavy Cream for Richness: The heavy cream is key to the creamy texture of the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be as rich.
- Customize the Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and seasonings in the sauce. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or basil can give the sauce a unique flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Step for Chicken: Letting the chicken rest after cooking helps it stay juicy. If you slice it too soon, the juices will escape, making it dry.
- Make It Spicy: For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce, or toss the chicken with some hot sauce before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce and chicken ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce, cook the pasta, and combine everything together.
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are a great alternative to breasts and are even juicier. Cook them in the same way as chicken breasts—just be sure to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. Can I make this recipe without sun-dried tomatoes?
If you’re not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes, you can omit them or replace them with roasted red peppers or even sautéed mushrooms for added flavor.
4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free. Just make sure to check that your chicken broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.
5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can make it dairy-free by using a dairy-free cream (such as coconut cream) and substituting the Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative.
6. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, toss the chicken with hot sauce before cooking or stir in red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also add jalapeños for an extra kick.
7. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. It’s always best to cook chicken that’s been thawed to ensure even cooking.
8. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave it or gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra cream or broth if needed.
9. What other vegetables can I add to the sauce?
You can add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or artichokes to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.
10. How do I know when the pasta is done cooking?
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes for most types of pasta. Be sure to test it by tasting a piece—it should be al dente (firm to the bite).