Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe – A Creamy Delight Made for Date Night

Updated on

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Image: Fito Recipes

5.0 from 1 vote

A Pasta Dish That Might Just Seal the Deal

When I first made this dish, my husband looked up from his plate, smiled, and said, “If we weren’t already married, I’d propose right now.” That’s how Marry Me Chicken Pasta got its name in our kitchen. And with its creamy sauce, juicy chicken, and sun-dried tomato magic, it’s easy to see why this has become a favorite for romantic dinners and cozy family nights alike.

It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent, but is surprisingly simple. It comes together in just one pan and under 40 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for two or making a feel-good weeknight meal, this one-pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta delivers rich flavor with minimal fuss.

If you’re wondering how to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta, this recipe has everything you need — and a few fun twists to make it your own.

Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Pasta and Sauce:

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • ¾ cup chicken broth
  • ¾ cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
  • 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
  • Fresh basil, for garnish

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

  1. Sear the Chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  2. Build the Sauce: In the same pan, sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Add chili flakes if using. Pour in chicken broth and let simmer for 2 minutes.
  3. Cream It Up: Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer until slightly thickened.
  4. Cook the Pasta: Add pasta directly into the sauce with extra water or broth if needed. Cook until pasta is al dente and the sauce coats everything.
  5. Finish the Dish: Return chicken to the pan, add spinach if using, and stir until wilted. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.

What Makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta Irresistible

  • One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup, maximum flavor.
  • Romantic Yet Simple: A perfect date night pasta recipe.
  • Versatile: Works with gluten-free pasta, different proteins, or added veggies.
  • Restaurant-Quality at Home: You’ll never crave takeout again.

Variations and Tips

  • Make it without cream: Swap for coconut milk or a mix of broth and cornstarch.
  • Add mushrooms, artichokes, or zucchini for more veggie power.
  • For a gluten-free Marry Me Chicken Pasta, use chickpea or rice pasta.
  • Want extra protein? Try it with grilled shrimp or seared tofu.

Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Grater for Parmesan

Storage Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
  • Not freezer-friendly due to the cream, but you can freeze just the sauce.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

NutrientAmount
Calories520
Protein34 g
Carbs42 g
Fat24 g
Fiber3 g
Sodium710 mg

The information shown is Edamam’s estimate based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

FAQ – Marry Me Chicken

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! Just skip the searing step and add it in during the final stir.

Is it spicy?

Only if you add chili flakes. It’s easy to adjust.

Can I make this ahead?

The sauce can be made a day in advance. Just cook pasta fresh for the best texture.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pastas like penne or rigatoni hold the sauce beautifully.

End with Something Sweet

Pair this creamy, romantic pasta dish with a comforting dessert like our Homemade Brownie Baked Oatmeal, or treat your sweetheart to a slice of Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake.

From my kitchen to yours, may this dish bring joy, comfort, and maybe even a proposal or two. Buon appetito!

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Recipe by Lucia Romano
5.0 from 1 vote
Course: Dessert
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

300

kcal

Creamy, bold, and made with love — this one-pan wonder blends juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and velvety sauce for the ultimate romantic comfort meal.

Ingredients

  • For the Chicken:
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon paprika

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • For the Pasta and Sauce:
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

  • cup teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

  • ¾ cup chicken broth

  • ¾ cup heavy cream (or coconut cream)

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)

  • 1 cup baby spinach (optional)

  • Fresh basil, for garnish

Directions

  • Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Add chili flakes if desired.
  • Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes.
  • Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer until slightly thickened.
  • Add pasta directly into the sauce with extra water or broth if needed. Cook until al dente.
  • Return chicken to the pan, add spinach, and stir until wilted.
  • Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.

Notes

  • == Notes ==
    Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
    Substitute cream with coconut milk or thickened broth for a dairy-free option.
    Great as a date night pasta or meal prep favorite.
  • == Nutrition ==
    Calories: 520
    Protein: 34g
    Carbohydrates: 42g
    Fat: 24g
    Fiber: 3g
    Sodium: 710mg

  • The information shown is estimated based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

You might also like these recipes