This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s a heartfelt experience. With its creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish delivers comfort, elegance, and flavor all in one.

The first time I made Marry Me Chicken Pasta, I instantly understood why this dish has such a romantic name. It’s rich, creamy, and indulgent, with a perfect balance of flavors that make it absolutely irresistible.

With tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce, it’s the kind of meal that could win over hearts—and stomachs—in just one bite.

Whether you’re cooking for a special date night, celebrating a milestone, or simply want to treat yourself to an elevated pasta dish, this recipe is sure to impress.

It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for entertaining guests. Let’s dive into the details of creating this unforgettable dish.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Romantic and Impressive: Perfect for date nights or special occasions, but simple enough for everyday meals.
Rich and Creamy Sauce: The sun-dried tomato cream sauce is loaded with flavor and coats the pasta beautifully.
Customizable: Use your favorite type of pasta or add veggies for extra nutrition.
One-Pan Wonder: Most of the cooking happens in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and hearty pasta is a universal favorite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for another minute.Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some sauce over them. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it to your desired consistency.
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over the pasta for a pop of color and flavor. Slice the chicken breasts before serving or leave them whole for a more dramatic presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian version.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets.
Add Protein: Swap the chicken for shrimp, salmon, or even scallops for a seafood twist.
Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by adding more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Cheese Lovers: Add shredded mozzarella or fontina cheese to the sauce for an extra gooey, cheesy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is it called Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
The name comes from the idea that this dish is so good, it could inspire a marriage proposal. Its rich, creamy flavors are universally loved, making it a romantic and impressive meal.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them in separate containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and chicken, then toss with freshly cooked pasta.
What’s the best pasta to use for this recipe?
Fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne are excellent choices because they hold up well to the creamy sauce. However, you can use any pasta you prefer.

How to Serve

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a few sides for an extra-special dinner:

Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to mop up the creamy sauce.
Green Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balance.
Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans make great accompaniments.
Wine Pairing: A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce beautifully.