Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Name: Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: – 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts; – 10 ounces penne pasta; – ½ teaspoon salt; – ¼ teaspoon pepper; – 1 tablespoon olive oil; – 3 tablespoons butter; – 2 teaspoons minced garlic; – 3 tablespoons flour; – 2 cups chicken broth; – 1 cup heavy cream; – 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; – 1 cup drained sun-dried tomatoes; – 1 teaspoon paprika; – 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning; – Fresh basil; – Extra parmesan cheese

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Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta

If you are looking for a dinner recipe that impresses everyone at the table without requiring hours of work, this is the one for you. This Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is quick and simple to prepare, featuring straightforward steps and minimal cooking time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious meal without hassle. The name itself suggests how irresistible it is, promising a flavor profile so rich and comforting that it might just spark a proposal.

Beyond its incredible taste, this dish is packed with nutritious ingredients, offering a balanced combination of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, supporting overall wellness while delivering a satisfying meal. It strikes the perfect balance between indulgent creaminess and wholesome nutrition. Whether you are cooking for a special date night or just trying to get a healthy meal on the table for your family, this pasta fits the bill perfectly.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. The recipe adapts easily to different dietary needs, including vegan, gluten-free, and low-calorie diets, allowing everyone to enjoy a tailored version of Marry Me Chicken Pasta. If you love pasta dishes as much as I do, you might also enjoy my crack chicken penne for another creamy, flavor-packed option. The rich blend of herbs, spices, and a unique sauce creates a flavorful experience that distinguishes this dish from typical chicken pasta recipes, perfect for impressing at dinner or special occasions.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta
2. Essential Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Marry Me Chicken Pasta
5. Mastering Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. Nutritional Information
7. How to Store Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Best Practices
8. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Me Chicken Pasta
9. Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Essential Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To make this dish come to life, you will need a mix of fresh ingredients and pantry staples. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a sun-dried tomato cream sauce is what makes this recipe legendary. Below is the complete list of ingredients you will need to gather before you start cooking.

1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
10 ounces penne pasta
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons minced garlic
3 tablespoons flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 cup drained sun-dried tomatoes
1 teaspoon paprika
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
Fresh basil
Extra parmesan cheese

Main Ingredient Highlights

The boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide lean protein and serve as the dish’s main ingredient. It is important to cut them into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. The penne pasta offers a hearty base that pairs well with the creamy sauce, as its ridges are perfect for holding onto the thick, rich garlic sauce. Heavy cream adds richness and a creamy texture to the sauce, while grated Parmesan cheese enhances flavor and thickens the sauce as it melts.

Aromatics and Flavor Boosters

Minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic depth, while the drained sun-dried tomatoes contribute a sweet and tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the cream. Olive oil is used for sautéing and adds healthy fats to the dish. The paprika and Italian seasoning work together to provide a savory, herbal backbone that ties all the flavors together. Chicken is not only delicious but also a great source of lean protein for your diet.

How to Prepare the Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Step-by-Step Guide

This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those busy nights when you crave something hearty but do not have all day to cook. Preparation takes about 10 minutes with a cooking time of 20 minutes. Follow these steps to ensure your pasta turns out perfectly every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

First, prepare all ingredients by dicing the 1 ½ pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Mince the 2 teaspoons of garlic, drain the 1 cup of sun-dried tomatoes, and measure out your cream, cheese, and spices. Pre-cook the 10 ounces of penne pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain it and set it aside. Having everything ready before you turn on the heat makes the cooking process much smoother.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. For best results, a meat thermometer can be used to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Start the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, add 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of flour over the butter and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for another minute to remove the raw flour taste. This mixture will thicken your sauce beautifully.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Simmer

Slowly whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and add 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 2 teaspoons of dried Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce begins to thicken. Add the 1 cup of drained sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce. Let the sauce simmer gently until it reaches your desired consistency. Sun-dried tomatoes are a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition in this dish.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked chicken and the drained pasta back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir everything together to coat the chicken and pasta evenly. Let it cook for a minute or two so the pasta absorbs some of the sauce. The dish is garnished with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese before serving. Serve immediately while warm to enjoy the creamiest texture possible.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Cooking should be flexible and adaptable to what you have on hand and your specific dietary needs. This recipe is highly versatile, allowing you to swap ingredients without sacrificing the delicious taste. Here are several ways you can customize this meal to fit vegan, gluten-free, or low-calorie preferences.

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

Vegan Option: Swap the chicken breasts with tofu or tempeh for a vegan-friendly protein. Use almond or oat cream instead of heavy cream to keep the sauce rich and dairy-free.
Other Proteins: If you aren’t a fan of chicken, you can use shrimp or turkey breast as alternative lean proteins that cook quickly and taste great in the garlic sauce.
Gluten-Free: Replace the regular penne pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative, such as rice pasta, chickpea pasta, or lentil pasta. Just be sure to check the cooking time as gluten-free pasta can cook faster.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Tomato Alternatives: Replace sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes depending on availability and your flavor preference. Roasted red peppers offer a sweeter, smokier profile.
Dairy-Free Sauce: Opt for dairy-free cream alternatives like cashew cream or coconut milk for a lighter sauce. Note that coconut milk will add a slight coconut flavor to the dish.
Low-Calorie: Substitute heavy cream with light cream, half-and-half, or a blend of chicken broth and a little Greek yogurt. You can also use spiralized zucchini instead of pasta to cut down on carbohydrates significantly.
Seasoning Tweaks: Adjust seasoning using fresh herbs such as thyme, oregano, or smoked paprika to alter flavor profiles. Fresh herbs always provide a brighter taste compared to dried ones.

These substitutions ensure the Marry Me Chicken Pasta remains customizable while maintaining flavor and nutritional balance, so everyone at your table can enjoy a version they love.

Mastering Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you have mastered the basic recipe, you can start experimenting with professional techniques and flavor twists to take this dish to the next level. These expert pointers will help you refine your cooking skills and impress your guests with restaurant-quality results right at home.

Pro Cooking Techniques

For the best texture, use a cast-iron skillet for evenly cooked chicken. The cast iron retains heat well and helps create a nice sear on the meat. To develop a richer sauce, try deglazing the pan with a splash of white wine after cooking the chicken and before adding the cream. This step picks up the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan, adding depth to the sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer gently rather than boil vigorously to meld flavors properly and prevent the dairy from separating.

Flavor Variations

If you like a bit of heat, introduce red pepper flakes to the sauce along with the garlic. Fresh basil is a classic garnish, but you can also try sun-dried tomato pesto for an even more intense tomato flavor. For a sharper, saltier taste, substitute the Parmesan with Pecorino Romano cheese. You can also add spinach or kale to the sauce during the last few minutes of simmering to sneak in some extra greens. If you are looking for more chicken pasta inspiration, my creamy chicken and broccoli pasta is another family favorite.

Presentation and Make-Ahead Options

They say we eat with our eyes first, so presentation matters. Serve pasta twirled in nests on warm plates using a fork and a ladle. Garnish with finely chopped fresh herbs and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a balsamic glaze for a pop of color and acidity. If you need to save time, you can prepare the sauce and chicken separately and refrigerate them. Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop and cook fresh pasta just before serving. This prevents the pasta from getting soggy and ensures the dish tastes as fresh as if you made it right then.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content of your meals is important for maintaining a balanced diet. This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich dish, but it also provides substantial protein and essential vitamins. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving, which helps you keep track of your intake while enjoying this delicious comfort food.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	646 kcal
Carbohydrates	51 grams
Protein	41 grams
Fat	31 grams
Vitamin A	1260 IU
Vitamin C	9 mg
Calcium	278 mg
Iron	3 mg

How to Store Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Best Practices

Sometimes we make more than we can eat in one sitting, or perhaps we are intentionally meal prepping for the week ahead. Knowing how to properly store your leftovers ensures that your Marry Me Chicken Pasta remains safe, flavorful, and enjoyable for later meals. Here are the best practices for storing, freezing, and reheating this dish.

Refrigeration

Store leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Make sure the pasta has cooled down to room temperature before sealing the container to prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy. Proper cooling also prevents bacterial growth that can occur when food is left out too long.

Freezing

For long-term storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label them with the date so you know when to use them. You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture. It is best to freeze the sauce and chicken separately from the pasta if possible, as pasta can become mushy in the freezer.

Reheating

When you are ready to eat your leftovers, warm them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The sauce tends to thicken up in the fridge, so add a splash of cream, water, or chicken broth while reheating to bring it back to the right consistency. This prevents the sauce from drying out and separates the starches for a creamy finish. Heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Meal Prep Considerations

Cook pasta and sauce separately when batch preparing. Combine them just before serving to avoid sogginess and maintain flavor integrity. If you are taking this for lunch, pack the sauce and chicken in one container and the pasta in another, then mix them together when you are ready to eat. This little extra step makes a huge difference in the quality of the meal.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Me Chicken Pasta

What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta and how is it made?

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and Italian seasonings. It typically includes penne pasta that is tossed in this flavorful sauce. The combination of tangy sun-dried tomatoes and creamy cheese creates a balanced and satisfying meal that can be prepared in about 30 minutes.

How long does it take to cook Marry Me Chicken Pasta from start to finish?

Preparing Marry Me Chicken Pasta generally takes around 30 minutes. This includes about 10 minutes for prepping ingredients such as chopping chicken and garlic, and 20 minutes for cooking the chicken, making the sauce, and combining everything with the cooked pasta. It’s a quick and convenient dish suitable for weeknight dinners.

Can Marry Me Chicken Pasta be made ahead of time and reheated?

Yes, Marry Me Chicken Pasta can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Adding a splash of cream or chicken broth while reheating helps keep the sauce smooth and creamy, preventing it from drying out.

How can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta spicier?

If you prefer a spicier version, you can add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce while cooking. Start with small amounts and adjust to taste so the heat complements the creamy sauce without overpowering it. Fresh chili slices can also be sautéed with the garlic for a natural spicy kick.

What tips help ensure the chicken in Marry Me Chicken Pasta is cooked perfectly?

To cook chicken properly for this dish, cut it into evenly sized bite-sized pieces so they cook uniformly. Sauté the chicken until it’s no longer pink in the center and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to confirm doneness and avoid overcooking, which can make the chicken dry.