March 14 2025

Marry Me Chicken Recipe With Pasta

Name: Marry Me Chicken Recipe With Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise (or use boneless, skinless thighs for extra juiciness)); 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, but adds a nice color and flavor); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic (minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic paste)); 1 cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra depth of flavor); 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated melts best); ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick); ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped (oil-packed is best for flavor)); 1 tablespoon butter; 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work best); Salt (for boiling water); Fresh basil or parsley (chopped); Extra Parmesan cheese; Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you like extra tender meat.; Use Greek yogurt or cream cheese instead of heavy cream for a slight twist.; Can’t find sun-dried tomatoes? Try cherry tomatoes (but cook them down a bit for flavor.); Want a gluten-free version? Use your favorite gluten-free pasta!

Khemit Dinner Recipes 0

Hey there, friend! Let me tell you about a dish so good, it might just lead to a marriage proposal— I am talking about Marry Me Chicken with Pasta!

Now, I’m not saying this is guaranteed to make someone fall head over heels, but let’s just say… it has a reputation.

I mean, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes—it’s basically a love story on a plate. And the best part of it? You don’t have to be a pro in the kitchen to pull this off. If you can stir a spoon and boil some pasta, you’re golden.

Now, I know life gets busy, and sometimes the last thing you want to do is spend hours cooking. Trust me, I totally get it. And that’s why I love this unique recipe—it’s easy, fast, and makes you feel like a total chef without all the effort.

Besides, it’s the kind of meal that makes people think you spent all day cooking. (Shhh, we won’t tell them it only took 30 minutes.)

And let’s talk about that first bite—oh wow. The creamy, garlicky sauce clings to the pasta, the chicken is tender and packed with flavor, and those little bursts of sun-dried tomato? Chef’s kiss. I bet you’ll be going back for seconds before you even finish your first plate.

So, whether you’re cooking for someone special or just treating yourself (because you deserve it), this Marry Me Chicken with Pasta is about to be your new go-to comfort meal. Now, let’s get cooking!

But first,

Why You Need to Make This Recipe

Alright, let’s talk about why this Marry Me Chicken with Pasta needs to happen in your kitchen—like, ASAP.

First, the flavor. We’re talking creamy, garlicky, cheesy goodness with a little tang from the sun-dried tomatoes. The chicken? Juicy and packed with herbs.

And when all that rich, savory sauce wraps around the pasta? Pure magic. It’s the kind of meal that makes you close your eyes after the first bite.

Now, let’s talk ease. I know some recipes look amazing but come with a laundry list of steps and ingredients—no thanks. This one? Just a handful of simple ingredients and 30 minutes from start to finish.

No fancy techniques, no stress, just ridiculously good food in less time than it takes to scroll through TikTok.

And if you’re looking to impress someone? Oh, this is the recipe. Whether you’re cooking for date night, a family dinner, or just treating yourself, this dish looks and tastes like something straight out of a fancy restaurant. But only you and I will know how easy it actually is. 😉

So, if you’re craving (oops, wanting) a meal that’s creamy, flavorful, and ridiculously simple, you have to give this Marry Me Chicken with Pasta a try. Trust me, once you do, you’ll be making it on repeat.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

2 large chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise (or use boneless, skinless thighs for extra juiciness)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika (optional, but adds a nice color and flavor)
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic paste)
1 cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra depth of flavor)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated melts best)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed is best for flavor)
1 tablespoon butter

For the Pasta:

8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work best)
Salt (for boiling water)

For Garnish:

Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese

Substitutions & Tips:

Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you like extra tender meat.
Use Greek yogurt or cream cheese instead of heavy cream for a slight twist.
Can’t find sun-dried tomatoes? Try cherry tomatoes, but cook them down a bit for flavor.
Want a gluten-free version? Use your favorite gluten-free pasta!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prep Like a Pro

Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise so they cook evenly. (Think of it as giving them a little spa treatment before their big moment.)
Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Let them sit while you heat the pan.

Step 2: Sizzle That Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. (No pink in the middle, please!)
Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Make That Creamy, Dreamy Sauce

In the same pan, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. (You know that smell—heaven.)
Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine if you’re feeling fancy) and scrape up those flavorful brown bits from the pan. Let it simmer for a minute.
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and sun-dried tomatoes. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is doing its thing, cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the chicken to the pan, spooning some of that creamy sauce over the top. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to soak up the flavors.
Toss in the cooked pasta and gently mix everything together. (This is where the magic happens.)

Step 6: Serve & Impress

Plate it up, sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley, and add extra Parmesan because, well… cheese.
Now enjoy! Bonus points if someone at the table looks at you and says, “Wow, did you really make this?”

How to Cook Marry Me Chicken with Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start, make sure you have everything ready. This will save you from running around the kitchen like a contestant on a cooking show.

Step 2: Prep the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. (No raw chicken here—165°F is the safe zone!)
Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in 1 cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra depth) and scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Stir in 1 cup heavy cream, ½ cup grated Parmesan, ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, and ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is coming together, boil water in a large pot and add salt.
Cook 8 ounces of pasta according to the package instructions.
Drain and set aside.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some sauce over it.
Let it simmer for 2 minutes so the flavors soak in.
Add the cooked pasta and toss gently to coat everything in that creamy sauce.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley and more Parmesan cheese because, honestly, there’s no such thing as too much cheese.
Serve immediately and enjoy the compliments!

Calories & Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Estimated per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: ~650-750 kcal
Protein: ~40g (thanks to the chicken and Parmesan)
Carbohydrates: ~50g (depends on the pasta choice)
Fat: ~35g (mostly from the heavy cream, olive oil, and cheese)
Saturated Fat: ~18g (hello, creamy goodness!)
Fiber: ~3-5g (if using whole wheat pasta, even more!)
Sugar: ~4g (from sun-dried tomatoes)
Sodium: ~800-1000mg (depends on how much salt and Parmesan you use)

Nutritional Notes:

High in protein – Great for muscle recovery and keeping you full.
Rich in healthy fats – Olive oil and cream add creaminess and satisfaction.
Can be made lighter – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half, or use less Parmesan.
Gluten-free option – Use gluten-free pasta or serve over zucchini noodles.
Lower-carb option – Skip the pasta and serve with steamed veggies or cauliflower rice.

This meal is indulgent but balanced with protein and healthy fats. Want to make it even healthier? Load up on veggies or use whole wheat pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid (And How to Fix Them!)

❌ Overcooking the Chicken

🔹 Nobody wants dry, rubbery chicken! Cook it just until golden brown and 165°F inside—use a meat thermometer if you’re not sure.

❌ Not Seasoning Enough

🔹 Boring food is a crime. Salt, pepper, and paprika are your best friends. Don’t be shy—season both sides of the chicken!

❌ Burning the Garlic

🔹 Garlic goes from golden to burnt in 10 seconds flat. Keep the heat on medium, stir it constantly, and only cook for about 30 seconds before adding liquid.

❌ Skipping the “Scrape Up the Brown Bits” Step

🔹 Those browned bits at the bottom of the pan? Liquid gold. Deglazing with chicken broth (or wine) lifts all that flavor into your sauce.

❌ Using Pre-Shredded Parmesan

🔹 It might save time, but it won’t melt right! Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly and tastes way better.

❌ Forgetting to Save Pasta Water

🔹 A splash of starchy pasta water can make the sauce extra silky. If your sauce looks too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

❌ Not Letting the Chicken Rest

🔹 Slicing it too soon means losing all those juices. Let it sit for 3-5 minutes before cutting into it.

❌ Drowning the Pasta in Sauce

🔹 Yes, the sauce is amazing, but the pasta shouldn’t be swimming in it. Toss it gently so everything gets evenly coated.

Follow these tips, and your Marry Me Chicken will be flavorful, juicy, and completely irresistible. Want to impress someone? Now you’re ready.

Variations & Customizations

Want to mix things up? Here are some fun ways to tweak your Marry Me Chicken with Pasta!

Spicy Version (Turn Up the Heat!)

Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Swap sun-dried tomatoes for fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a smoky kick.
Finish with chopped jalapeños or sliced chili peppers for extra heat!

Keto-Friendly (Low-Carb Swap)

Skip the pasta and serve it over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or spaghetti squash.
Use heavy cream and extra cheese for a rich, keto-friendly sauce.
Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to bulk it up without the carbs.

Vegetarian Twist (Yes, You Can!)

Swap chicken for thick slices of portobello mushrooms or tofu, seasoned the same way.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in the sauce.
Add in roasted red peppers and spinach for extra flavor and texture.

Extra Creamy Garlic Lover’s Version

Double the garlic (because why not?).
Stir in a little cream cheese for an even silkier sauce.
Add roasted garlic cloves on top for a fancy touch.

No matter how you tweak it, this dish is pure comfort food with a twist. Try one of these versions, and let me know which one’s your favorite!

Serving & Presentation Tips

You’ve cooked up a masterpiece—now let’s make it look just as amazing as it tastes! Here’s how to serve and plate your Marry Me Chicken with Pasta like a pro:

Choose the Right Plate

Go for a wide, shallow bowl or a large dinner plate. This helps show off the creamy sauce and keeps the pasta from piling up like a mountain.

Plate the Pasta First

Use tongs to swirl a portion of pasta onto the plate.
If the sauce is extra thick, toss the pasta with a bit of sauce before plating—this helps coat every bite evenly.

Place the Chicken on Top

Slice the chicken at an angle for a restaurant-style look.
Fan out the slices slightly on top of the pasta, or leave the fillet whole for a bold presentation.

Spoon Over That Dreamy Sauce

Drizzle the creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce over the chicken and pasta. Don’t drown it—just enough to keep it glossy and tempting.

Garnish Like a Pro

Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan for a melty, salty finish.
Add a few chopped fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
A little cracked black pepper or red pepper flakes makes it look fancy and adds a kick.

The Final Touch (Optional but Awesome)

If you really want to impress, add a small drizzle of high-quality olive oil for extra richness.
Serve with a side of crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad to round out the meal.

Boom! You’ve just plated a dish that looks straight out of a restaurant. Now grab your fork and enjoy! 😋🍽️

Storage & Freezing Instructions

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat them so they taste just as amazing the next day.

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerator:
- Let the chicken and pasta cool to room temperature before storing.
- Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Keep the sauce separate (if possible):
- The sauce thickens in the fridge, so storing it separately makes reheating easier.

Freezing Instructions

Can you freeze it? Yes! But pasta doesn’t always freeze well, so here’s the best way:
- Freeze the chicken and sauce together in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
- Do not freeze the pasta—it gets mushy. Instead, make fresh pasta when you reheat the chicken.

How to Reheat

Stovetop (Best Method!)
- Add the chicken and sauce to a pan over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Heat until warm.
- If reheating pasta, toss it in the pan for a minute or two.
Microwave (Quick & Easy)
- Place in a microwave-safe dish, add a little broth or cream, and cover loosely. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each one, until warmed through.
Oven (For Larger Portions)
- Preheat to 350°F, place everything in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes.

And that’s it! Now you’re set for round two of deliciousness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is it called “Marry Me Chicken”?

Because it’s that good! The story goes that after one bite, someone might just propose. It’s creamy, flavorful, and totally irresistible—perfect for impressing someone special.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay extra juicy and add more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time—thighs take a bit longer to cook through.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

No problem! You can substitute cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even a bit of tomato paste for a similar rich, slightly sweet taste.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute. It will have a slight coconut flavor but still be creamy and delicious.

What’s the best pasta to serve with this?

Fettuccine, linguine, or penne work great because they hold onto the sauce beautifully. But honestly, any pasta will do—you could even serve it over rice or mashed potatoes!

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

Let it simmer a little longer so it reduces. If you need it thicker fast, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 2 teaspoons water, then stir it into the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the chicken and sauce, store them separately, and reheat when ready to serve. Fresh pasta is always best, so cook that just before serving.

Got more questions? Drop them in the comments—I’ve got you! 😊

Conclusion

And there you have it—Marry Me Chicken with Pasta, a dish so good it might just spark a proposal!

Whether you’re making this for date night, family dinner, or just because you deserve something delicious, I promise it’ll be a hit.

Now, here’s the real question: Are you ever going back to boring, store-bought Alfredo sauce? (Didn’t think so. 😉)

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out! Did you add your own twist? Did someone actually propose? Drop a comment or share your masterpiece—I’d love to hear about it! 🍽️💖

Now you may want to try out these similar DELICIOUS:

Easy Black Pepper Chicken with Sauce

Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Potatoes