Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a creamy, flavorful, and downright irresistible pasta dish, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is just what you need! It’s rich, comforting, and packed with bold flavors that will make anyone fall in love with the first bite.

But why is it called Marry Me Chicken Pasta? Legend has it that this dish is so delicious that it could inspire a marriage proposal! With its creamy Parmesan sauce, juicy chicken, and sun-dried tomatoes, it’s a meal that feels like love on a plate.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through an easy step-by-step guide to making this delicious pasta dish, plus helpful tips, variations, and serving suggestions. Get ready to cook a meal that will impress your loved ones!

Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

To make this delicious Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe, you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1 pound pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite)

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor:

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
• ½ cup mushrooms or spinach for added texture
• A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Chicken

To get the best flavor, start by seasoning the chicken.

• Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
• Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet—it will finish cooking in the sauce.
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

2. Making the Creamy Sauce

Now, it’s time to make the creamy, dreamy sauce that makes this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe unforgettable.

• In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add the sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using), stirring for another minute.
• Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
• Slowly add the Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
• Return the chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce for 10 minutes, or until fully cooked.

3. Cooking the Pasta

The right pasta makes all the difference!

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add your pasta of choice and cook according to the package instructions.
• Once cooked, reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. This can be used to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

4. Combining Everything

• Slice the cooked chicken into strips or cubes.
• Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce, tossing everything together.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
• Top with extra Parmesan and fresh basil for garnish.

Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Choose the right chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great, but you can also use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
• Make it creamier: Add a bit more heavy cream or even a spoonful of cream cheese.
• Adjust the spice: If you love a little heat, increase the red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder dish, omit them.
• Dietary swaps: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version or swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

Serving Suggestions

Wondering what to serve with this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe? Here are some great ideas:

• Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• A simple side salad – A fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables – Broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini complement the dish well.

Drink Pairings

• Herbal Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea with lemon, mint, or berry infusion enhances the dish’s flavors.
• Fresh Lemonade: A slightly tangy homemade lemonade balances the creamy richness.
• Sparkling Water: Plain or infused with citrus slices for a crisp, refreshing touch.
• Milk or Creamy Beverages: A glass of cold milk or a dairy-free alternative pairs well with the dish’s creamy texture.
• Light Vegetable or Chicken Broth: A warm, mild broth can complement the flavors for a cozy meal experience.

Variations of Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Want to put your own spin on this recipe? Try these fun variations:

• Mushroom & Spinach Twist: Sauté mushrooms and spinach before adding the cream for extra flavor.
• Baked Pasta Version: Transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and broil until bubbly.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Store them separately, then reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

Can I use a different type of protein?

Absolutely! Try using shrimp, salmon, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is a must-try for any pasta lover. With its rich, creamy sauce and perfectly seasoned chicken, it’s no surprise that people say it’s proposal-worthy!

Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out! Did you add any special twists? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us if you post your dish online. Happy cooking!

If you love creamy, flavorful chicken dishes, you might also enjoy trying Grilled Chicken Margherita, another irresistible meal packed with fresh, bold flavors.

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