If you are searching for a dish that will impress both your taste buds and your loved ones, the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is your answer. This creamy, savory, and utterly comforting pasta combines tender chicken, rich sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, all wrapped around perfectly cooked penne. Each bite is layered with flavors guaranteed to make you feel like you’re indulging in something truly special—this is one recipe that’s worthy of the bold claim in its name!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem straightforward, but each one is crucial in building the soulful depth of this crowd-pleaser. From the juicy chicken to the creamy cheese and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, every item contributes to the dish’s texture, color, and incredible flavor profile.
- 12 ounces penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape for holding onto the creamy sauce in every bite.
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch pieces for quick and even cooking.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning the pasta water and chicken to boost flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle, warm spice to the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Gives the chicken a mild smoky aroma and beautiful color.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sear the chicken to golden perfection.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Creates a rich base for the sauce alongside garlic.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with that irresistible savory zing.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce for that creamy consistency.
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth: Adds depth and savory flavor to the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a velvety, smooth texture that coats the pasta gorgeously.
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and umami that elevates the whole dish.
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped: Provide bursts of tangy sweetness and chewy texture.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Brings Mediterranean herbs to tie all the flavors together.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: A little extra for the sauce to deepen the flavor.
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped: For a bright, fresh finish garnish.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling your penne pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until just al dente. This is key because the pasta will continue to cook slightly when you toss it later in the sauce. Once done, drain and set aside, ready to soak up that signature creamy sauce.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
Next, season your chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add your chicken, cooking it until every piece is golden brown and cooked through. This step locks in flavor and texture. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm as you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Build the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low and add the butter. Once it melts, toss in the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant – it only takes about 30 seconds. This gentle cooking releases the garlic’s aroma without burning it, which is essential for an inviting sauce.
Step 4: Create the Roux and Add Broth
Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and butter mixture, stirring well to coat the garlic and cook the flour slightly. This roux will thicken your sauce. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps, resulting in a smooth, luscious base.
Step 5: Finish the Cream Sauce
Once the broth has thickened a little, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and the remaining paprika. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until it reaches the creamy, thick consistency that clings beautifully to the pasta and chicken.
Step 6: Combine All Ingredients
Return the chicken to the skillet along with the cooked penne pasta. Toss everything together with care to coat every piece evenly in the rich sauce. This step brings the whole dish together, making it comforting and visually appealing.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Give your pasta a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—perhaps a pinch more salt or pepper—to make sure every flavor shines just right.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped fresh basil and extra grated Parmesan on top. These final touches add vibrant color and freshness that elevate this already sensational dish. Now, serve and prepare to be delighted!
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing your Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe with freshly chopped basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich sauce. For an extra touch, consider a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a few red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
Side Dishes
This dish stands proudly on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables. These sides provide crunch and freshness that balance the creamy pasta, making your meal feel complete and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, try plating the pasta in shallow bowls and scattering basil leaves artistically on top. Alternatively, serve family-style in a large rustic skillet placed right on the table for a cozy, convivial vibe that encourages sharing and conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because the sauce is creamy, it might thicken as it cools, but a quick stir or gentle reheating will restore its luscious texture.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, it’s best to do so in freezer-safe containers, where it can last up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of the pasta might soften after freezing, so this option is perfect for convenience rather than optimal texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce feels too thick. Avoid microwaving directly without stirring, as the sauce could separate or become unevenly heated.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring extra juiciness and flavor. Just be sure to cut them into uniform pieces and adjust cooking time slightly if needed for even doneness.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese as alternatives, but heavy cream gives the sauce the signature richness and smoothness that defines the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe.
Are sun-dried tomatoes necessary?
While they add a beautiful tang and chewiness to the dish, you can substitute with cherry tomatoes for freshness or omit if you prefer a milder sauce.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce, ensuring the same creamy goodness without gluten.
How spicy is the dish?
The dish is mildly spiced due to the paprika and Italian seasoning, but it’s not spicy hot. You can always add crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer more heat.
Final Thoughts
If you want to dive into a dish that feels like a warm, flavorful hug, you simply must try the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s an irresistible combination of creamy goodness, tender chicken, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes that will have you coming back for seconds. Whether for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this recipe promises to deliver bold flavors and happy smiles all around.
Print
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish featuring tender chicken pieces and penne pasta tossed in a rich sun-dried tomato Parmesan sauce, finished with fresh basil for a flavorful and easy dinner that serves four.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces penne pasta
Chicken
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves (chopped)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside for later.
- Season and Cook Chicken: Season the cut chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add butter to the same skillet and melt it. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Create Roux and Add Broth: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the garlic and stir well for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps, forming a smooth sauce base.
- Add Cream and Flavorings: When the mixture thickens slightly, stir in heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens to desired consistency.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken and drained penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together carefully until the chicken and pasta are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust salt, pepper, or seasoning as needed to balance the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped basil and additional grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Marry Me Chicken Pasta!
Notes
- For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated.
- You can substitute penne with other pasta types such as rigatoni or fusilli.
- If sun-dried tomatoes are oil-packed, drain well to prevent excess oiliness.
- Adjust cream thickness by simmering longer for a thicker sauce or adding a splash of milk for thinner consistency.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop.
