Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

I am so excited to share this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe with you because it truly feels like a special dish that brings comfort and a touch of elegance to your dinner table. The creamy sauce combined with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta creates an irresistible flavor that I just can’t get enough of. It’s one of those meals I turn to when I want something that feels cozy yet impressive, and I know it’ll win hearts every time I make it.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

What really makes this recipe stand out to me is the explosion of flavors in the sauce. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy-sweet depth that pairs amazingly well with the creamy Parmesan and heavy cream base. There’s just the right amount of garlic and oregano to make it aromatic and comforting without overpowering the chicken or pasta. Every bite feels like a perfect balance of richness and freshness that keeps me coming back for more.

I also love how approachable this recipe is. It doesn’t require any fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients, yet the results feel so indulgent and restaurant-worthy. It’s great for weeknight dinners when I want something quick but satisfying, but honestly, it’s also perfect for date nights or special occasions where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta is just perfection in my book.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a key role in delivering the final taste and texture. From the cornstarch that gives the chicken a crispy coating to the sun-dried tomato oil that infuses everything with a subtle, savory richness, these ingredients come together to create a truly unforgettable meal.

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced: The main protein, tender and juicy when cooked right.
• 10 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine): Choose your favorite shape to soak up that creamy sauce beautifully.
• 2 tbsp seasoned oil from sun-dried tomatoes: Adds a complex, savory flavor that elevates the dish.
• 2 tbsp cornstarch: Perfect for coating the chicken to get a great golden crust.
• 1 tbsp butter: Used to sauté garlic and bring richness to the sauce base.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds warmth and depth to the sauce.
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, thinly diced: Brings tanginess and vibrant color to every bite.
• 1¼ cup heavy cream: The creamy heart of the sauce, making it luxuriously smooth.
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Melts in perfectly adding sharp, salty flavor and thickening the sauce.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and richness while balancing the cream.
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle hint of heat and extra depth if you’re feeling adventurous.
• 2 tsp dried oregano: Provides an herbal note that complements the tomatoes and chicken.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for amplifying all the flavors.
• ½ oz torn fresh basil (for garnish): Gives a fresh, bright finish for both color and flavor.

Directions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta of your choice for about 8-10 minutes, or until it’s cooked al dente. Don’t forget to reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining, as this will help loosen the sauce later if needed. Set the pasta aside once drained.

Step 2: In a mixing bowl, toss your diced chicken breasts with the cornstarch, oregano, a generous pinch of salt, freshly ground pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. This coating helps build that tasty golden crust we want on the chicken pieces.

Step 3: Heat the sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes until it’s golden on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside so you can build the sauce in the same pan.

Step 4: In that same skillet, melt the butter and add minced garlic along with the diced sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the tomatoes have softened, which releases their beautiful flavor into the butter.

Step 5: Pour in ¾ cup of chicken broth and follow with the heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 3 to 5 minutes, stirring often so it doesn’t stick. When it starts to thicken, add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and luscious.

Step 6: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce. Simmer everything together for another 5 minutes so the chicken soaks up all those delicious flavors.

Step 7: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the rich sauce. Use the reserved pasta water little by little if you need to thin the sauce to your preferred consistency. It’s a great trick to get it just right.

Step 8: To finish, sprinkle fresh torn basil on top along with extra Parmesan cheese for garnish. Serve the dish warm and watch it disappear fast!

Servings and Timing

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe makes about 4 generous servings, perfect for family dinners or sharing with friends. The prep time is around 10 minutes to dice the chicken and gather your ingredients. Cooking time is approximately 30 minutes, which includes cooking the pasta, searing the chicken, and simmering the sauce to perfection. Altogether, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish, with no additional resting or cooling time required—making it a fantastic weeknight meal option.

How to Serve This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

I love serving this pasta hot, right off the stove, with a little extra Parmesan on top for that perfect finishing touch. The creamy sauce clings to every piece of pasta and chicken, so keeping it warm ensures every bite is as indulgent as the first. For garnishing, fresh basil gives a pop of color and a fragrant herbal note that balances the richness beautifully. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if we’re in the mood for a little spice kick.

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple green sides like a crisp Caesar salad or a garlic sautéed spinach for brightness that contrasts the creamy sauce. If I want to keep things light but delicious, I’ll whip up a lemony arugula salad with shaved Parmesan and toasted pine nuts on the side. For a touch of crunch, garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is my go-to; it’s perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on the plate.

When it comes to drinks, I often reach for a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio since they complement the creaminess without overwhelming the palate. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a squeeze of fresh lemon works beautifully to refresh the palate. This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe shines at casual family dinners but also feels special enough for birthdays, date nights, or a cozy weekend meal that you want to savor.

Variations

I’ve experimented with a few twists on this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe that are fun to try depending on your tastes or dietary needs. For instance, swapping the boneless chicken breasts for skinless thighs gives a slightly richer, more tender bite, thanks to their natural juiciness. If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half – just be sure to simmer gently to avoid curdling.

For gluten-free friends, just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your chicken broth is gluten-free as well. To make this dish vegan, I recommend using plant-based cream alternatives and dairy-free Parmesan substitutes, while swapping chicken for tofu or seitan, which can be dredged in cornstarch and seared similarly. It’s an exciting way to keep that creamy texture while accommodating different diets.

If you love a smoky flavor, adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the chicken coating before cooking elevates the dish beautifully. Another variation I enjoy is stirring in some roasted red peppers along with the sun-dried tomatoes for an extra layer of sweetness and color. You can also finish with a splash of white wine in the sauce for added complexity—just let it reduce well before adding the cream and cheese.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying this delightful meal, if you have leftovers, they store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I like to use glass containers to keep the flavors fresh and avoid any lingering odors from your fridge. Make sure the pasta is fully cooled before sealing and refrigerating to maintain the sauce’s best texture.

Freezing

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe can be frozen, though the creamy sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. If you want to freeze it, place portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty resealable bags, removing as much air as possible. It’s best consumed within 1 to 2 months for optimal taste. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator rather than using the microwave directly from frozen, as slow thawing helps preserve the dish’s luscious texture.

Reheating

When reheating, I recommend doing so gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce as it warms back up. Stir frequently to prevent scorching and help the sauce come back together smoothly. Avoid reheating at too high a temperature or for too long, as this can cause the cream to separate and the chicken to dry out. If using a microwave, reheat in short bursts at medium power, stirring between intervals.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! I love the flexibility of this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. While penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work beautifully because their shapes catch the sauce well, you can also use farfalle, rotini, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to cook it al dente to avoid mushiness when tossed with the sauce.

Is the red pepper flakes ingredient necessary?

Not at all! The red pepper flakes are optional and add a subtle heat and warmth that some people love. If you prefer a milder dish or cooking for kids, feel free to leave them out. The sauce is flavorful and rich enough without the extra spice, so it’s totally up to your taste preferences.

What can I substitute if I don’t have sun-dried tomato oil?

If you don’t have oil from the sun-dried tomatoes, you can use extra virgin olive oil or a mild vegetable oil instead. To keep the flavor profile close, add a small amount of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce or with the garlic to infuse that lovely tomato savoriness without the oil specifically.

Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce components in advance and refrigerate them separately from the pasta to keep the texture just right. When you’re ready to eat, simply warm up the sauce and chicken together then toss with freshly cooked pasta or reheat the pre-cooked pasta gently. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or hosting when you want less last-minute kitchen time.

What if I want a lighter version of this creamy dish?

For a lighter take, I sometimes swap half or all of the heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk, which reduces calories and richness while still maintaining good creaminess. Just be gentle with cooking temperature to avoid curdling the dairy. You can also cut back on butter or cheese slightly, depending on your preference, while still keeping the flavors vibrant with sun-dried tomatoes and garlic.

Conclusion

I genuinely believe this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is a winner for any occasion where you want to impress without stress. It combines comforting creaminess with bold flavors and simple ingredients, resulting in a dish that feels both luxurious and approachable. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do—it’s one of those meals that truly makes me smile every time I serve it.

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