Name: Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: Pasta:; 8 oz (225g) dry pasta; Chicken and Seasoning:; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; ½ tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp red pepper flakes; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; Sauce:; 1 tbsp butter; ½ cup finely chopped onion; 3-4 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Garnish:; Fresh basil leaves

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If you’re looking for a recipe that combines comfort food with a touch of elegance, the “Marry Me Chicken Pasta” is the perfect choice. This creamy, flavorful dish has earned its romantic nickname for a reason—it’s so irresistible that it’s rumored to inspire marriage proposals! Whether you’re cooking for a special date night, a family dinner, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Let’s dive into the details of how to make this mouthwatering dish that blends tender chicken, a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta.

Why Is It Called “Marry Me Chicken Pasta”?

The name “Marry Me Chicken” comes from the idea that this dish is so delectable, it could make someone fall head over heels in love with you—or at least with your cooking! The combination of rich flavors and creamy textures makes it a memorable meal that’s perfect for romantic occasions or just to show off your culinary skills.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this irresistible dish:

8 oz (225g) dry pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti works well)
1 tbsp olive oil
½ cup finely chopped onion
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp butter
1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
½ tsp each: Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water—this will help adjust the sauce consistency later.

2. Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce

Using the same skillet (don’t wash it—you want those flavorful bits!), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Next, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens slightly.

4. Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

5. Garnish and Serve

Top your Marry Me Chicken Pasta with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch. Serve immediately and watch as everyone falls in love with this incredible dish!

Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Adjust the Spice Level: If you enjoy a spicier kick, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
Choose Your Favorite Pasta: While penne is a popular choice, you can use any pasta you love—fettuccine, spaghetti, or even bowtie pasta will work beautifully.
Make It Ahead: You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time. When ready to serve, simply cook fresh pasta and combine everything.
Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use a non-dairy alternative for the heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream alternative. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor profile.

Q: What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

You can substitute sun-dried tomatoes with cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a similar burst of flavor.

Q: Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shrimp or turkey breast can be great alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure your protein is fully cooked.

Q: How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply swap out regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Q: Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to help restore its creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

The Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that brings people together with its rich flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re trying to impress someone special or just want to treat yourself to an indulgent dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit.

So why not give it a try? Who knows—this might just become your go-to recipe for creating unforgettable memories around the dinner table!