Name: Easily Indulgent Marry Me Chicken Pasta for Romantic Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken (Diced for easy cooking); 10 ounces Penne Pasta (Can substitute with any preferred pasta); 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 0.25 teaspoon Pepper; 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (For sautéing); 3 tablespoons Butter (Adds richness to the sauce); 2 teaspoons Garlic (Minced); 3 tablespoons Flour; 2 cups Chicken Broth; 1 cup Heavy Cream; 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Grated); 1 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes (Well-drained); 1 teaspoon Paprika; 2 teaspoons Dried Italian Seasoning; Fresh Basil (For garnish)

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When the dinner bell rings, and I want to create an unforgettable evening, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is my go-to dish. The moment I begin to sauté garlic in olive oil, the delightful aroma fills the kitchen, enticing everyone nearby. This creamy, dreamy pasta recipe combines succulent chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich sauce that clings to every tender penne piece, making it a true crowd-pleaser.

Perfect for romantic dinners or treasured family gatherings, this sumptuous dish comes together in just 40 minutes, meaning you can impress without the stress. Plus, the one-pan cooking method means less cleanup and more quality time with loved ones. So, whether it’s a special date night or a cozy family dinner, whip up this Marry Me Chicken Pasta and watch it steal the spotlight at your table!

Why is marry me chicken pasta irresistible?

Creamy Comfort: This dish boasts a velvety sauce that wraps around every bite, making it feel indulgent yet approachable.

Time-Saving Delight: With a total cooking time of just 40 minutes, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying dinner with loved ones.

One-Pan Wonder: The easy cleanup means you can relax after dinner, letting the flavors of a romantic meal linger without worrying about the mess!

Versatile and Customizable: Have fun swapping ingredients based on your preferences, whether it’s using shrimp instead of chicken or adding fresh veggies like spinach.

Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: Perfect for date nights or family gatherings, this dish dazzles palates and creates lasting memories, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.

If you’re looking for more ideas, try pairing it with a side of Chicken Pesto Pasta for a playful twist to your menu!

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Ingredients

For the Chicken
Chicken (1 ½ pounds) – Boneless, skinless, and diced for easy cooking; essential for a hearty dish. Feel free to substitute shrimp or tofu for a different protein.
For the Pasta
Penne Pasta (10 ounces) – This pasta shape provides structure and holds the sauce beautifully. You can switch to any preferred pasta shape like fusilli or farfalle.
For the Seasoning
Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances the flavors of the chicken and sauce.
Pepper (¼ teaspoon) – Adds a comforting hint of spice.
For Cooking
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – Perfect for sautéing the chicken; adds flavor and prevents sticking.
Butter (3 tablespoons) – Contributes richness to the sauce, creating a deliciously creamy texture.
For the Sauce
Garlic (2 teaspoons, minced) – Offers an aromatic depth; it’s a must for flavoring the sauce.
Flour (3 tablespoons) – Helps thicken the sauce by creating a roux.
Chicken Broth (2 cups) – Infuses the dish with moisture and depth of flavor.
Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Provides a luxuriously creamy texture that makes every bite heavenly.
Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated) – Adds a salty, nutty flavor while also helping to thicken the sauce.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes (1 cup, well-drained) – These add a burst of sweet, tangy flavor to the mix.
Paprika (1 teaspoon) – Enhances color and depth, bringing out the rich flavors.
Dried Italian Seasoning (2 teaspoons) – This blend adds herbaceous notes that make the dish sing.
For the Garnish
Fresh Basil – A lovely touch that not only enhances presentation but adds a fresh flavor contrast to the dish.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Prepare Chicken: Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Make the Roux: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then, whisk in the flour to form a roux, stirring continuously.
Create the Sauce: Gradually pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking to achieve a smooth consistency. Cook until the mixture thickens, which should take around 3-5 minutes.
Add Flavor: Stir in the grated Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Combine well until the flavors meld beautifully.
Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, cooking until it’s tender, about 5 more minutes. Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta al dente according to package instructions; then mix it with the sauce.
Serve: Toss everything together over low heat for a minute or so. Garnish with fresh basil for a lovely presentation, and serve hot for a truly enchanting meal!

Optional: Drizzle with a bit of extra olive oil for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality chicken and cream to enhance the overall flavor of your marry me chicken pasta. Better ingredients always lead to a more delightful dish.
Avoid Overcooking: When sautéing the chicken, remember to keep an eye on cooking time. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough, detracting from the creamy experience.
Stir Constantly: While adding the chicken broth and cream, whisk continuously. This practice helps prevent lumps, ensuring your sauce remains velvety and smooth throughout.
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add veggies like spinach or broccoli for a pop of color and nutrition. Just toss them in during the sauce creation step for perfectly cooked additions.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before adding the pasta, and adjust seasonings as needed. A little extra salt or pepper can elevate the final result of your marry me chicken pasta.

What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

A delicious meal deserves delightful companions to elevate the experience and satisfaction.

Crisp Caesar Salad: A fresh salad with crunchy romaine and tangy dressing complements the creamy pasta perfectly.
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is a classic pairing, allowing you to savor every bit of that luscious sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring a warm, caramelized sweetness that balances the richness of the chicken pasta.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances the dish’s flavors, making your romantic dinner feel truly special.

For dessert, consider serving a light sorbet. It offers a refreshing end to your meal, cleansing the palate after the creamy indulgence. These pairings not only round out the flavors but also create a beautiful dining atmosphere that will impress friends and family alike!

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Variations

Feel free to get creative with this dish and make it uniquely yours—your dinner guests will love the surprise!

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a flavorful alternative that still feels rich.
Add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast to mimic cheesy flavors, and you’ll be surprised at how creamy it can still be!
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta such as chickpea or brown rice pasta as a delicious swap for the traditional penne.
Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as gluten-free varieties may have different cooked consistencies!
Vegetable Boost: Stir in fresh spinach or diced bell peppers to the sauce for added nutrition and a splash of color.
Not only does this enhance the dish’s visual appeal, but it also brings a delicate crunch that complements the pasta beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for those who enjoy a little heat in their meal.
Just a sprinkle will do, allowing your guests to enjoy a flavorful adventure without overwhelming their taste buds!
Italian Classic: Incorporate kalamata olives and capers into the sauce for a Mediterranean twist that adds a briny contrast.
These ingredients deepen the flavor profile while creating a delightful combination that transports you straight to Italy!
Sun-Dried Tomato Alternatives: If sun-dried tomatoes aren’t your thing, try adding roasted red peppers for a different but delicious sweet pepper flavor.
They offer a similarly rich experience but with a fresh, zingy element that brightens the dish.
Protein Swap: Switch out chicken for shrimp or even grilled salmon to give this dish a seafood-inspired twist.
Cooking times will vary slightly, so make sure to adjust accordingly for perfectly tender seafood!
Herbal Infusion: Swap dried Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano to elevate the dish with vibrant flavors.
Fresh herbs add a burst of aromatic freshness that makes every spoonful sing!

How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Fridge: Store any leftover marry me chicken pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring the sauce retains its creamy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Consider portioning it out for easy reheating later.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or use the microwave in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between for even heating.

Airtight Sealing: If freezing, wrap the container tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn, preserving the delicious flavors of your marry me chicken pasta.

Make Ahead Options

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can prepare the chicken and sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the chicken, make the sauce, and combine (but keep the cooked penne pasta separate to prevent sogginess). Store everything in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dish, just reheat the sauce and chicken together over low heat until warmed through; then add your freshly cooked pasta to combine. This way, you’ll enjoy all the delicious flavors of Marry Me Chicken Pasta with minimal effort on the day of serving!

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken?
When choosing chicken for your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, look for boneless, skinless breasts that are fresh and have a bright pink color. Avoid chicken with dark spots or an off smell. If you can, opt for organic or free-range chicken for superior flavor.

How long can I store leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing it up to maintain its creamy texture.

Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! For freezing, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s tightly sealed. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating, it’s best to thaw in the fridge overnight before warming it in the oven or microwave.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find that your sauce is too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream while stirring over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. This will help create that luscious, creamy sauce you want.

Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Yes! If you need to cater to dietary restrictions, you can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative. Lastly, be mindful of allergies; the recipe contains gluten, lactose, and possible allergens from the chicken or substitute proteins.

How can I make sure my pasta doesn’t stick together?
To prevent your pasta from sticking, make sure to stir it while it cooks, and avoid overcooking. Adding a drizzle of olive oil to the boiling water can also help. Once drained, mix the pasta with the sauce immediately for a perfect, non-sticky finish.