It’s 6 PM, and you’re wondering what to make for dinner. Then, you think of Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe.. It’s a creamy, cheesy dish ready in under 30 minutes.
Imagine tender penne pasta in a sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and smoky paprika. Add juicy chicken that’s perfectly seasoned. This dish makes any night special.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Cook a hearty, 646-calorie meal in 30 minutes with 1.5 pounds of chicken and 10 ounces of penne pasta.
- Uses 1 cup heavy cream and sun-dried tomatoes for rich flavor, plus 5 spices like Italian seasoning and paprika.
- Perfect for customization: swap pasta types or add veggies to suit your taste.
- Stores up to 4 days, making leftovers a quick fix for busy days.
- Under 30 minutes from pan to plate—ideal for weeknights or date night surprises.
What Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Imagine a dish so delicious it feels like a love letter to your taste buds. Marry Me Chicken Pasta isn’t just a meal—it’s a flavorful chicken pasta experience. It makes every bite feel like a hug from your favorite kitchen. Its playful name hints at the joy it brings, and its creamy, tangy flavors have turned it into a comfort food recipe staple.
The Story Behind the Name
“You’ll want to propose after one bite!”
The name started as a joke among home cooks. They swore this pasta’s richness and bold flavors were worth proposing over. The dish’s viral appeal comes from its cheeky moniker and the promise of a meal so good, it feels like a celebration.
Why This Dish Has Become So Popular
- Instagram-ready presentation: glossy sauce and vibrant basil make it perfect for sharing.
- Quick 30-minute prep with pantry staples like penne and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Balance of tangy, creamy, and savory notes that satisfy cravings instantly.
Main Flavor Components
The magic starts with a creamy base of parmesan and heavy cream. Sun-dried tomatoes add a punch of umami acidity. Fresh basil and garlic deepen the aroma, while a touch of crushed red pepper keeps things exciting.
Each bite blends flavorful chicken pasta elements: al dente pasta, tender shredded chicken, and a sauce so rich you’ll crave seconds.
Ready to fall in love with dinner? Let’s break down how to make it next.
The Origin Story of This Beloved Dish
The homemade pasta dish known as Marry Me Chicken Pasta started as a simple Italian-American chicken recipe. Home cooks then added pasta, making it a hearty meal. They mixed classic flavors like sun-dried tomatoes and basil with everyday ingredients. This made the dish both comforting and special.
“One bite of this Marry Me Chicken Pasta and you will be in heaven. The sauce in this recipe could not be more of a hit! It’s perfectly rich and creamy, and the sun-dried tomatoes really take it to the next level.”
Its popularity grew when home chefs shared their versions online. They showed how busy cooks could make its creamy sauce and pasta pairing. The dish became a favorite because it felt like a restaurant-quality meal that anyone could make. Families started using it for date nights or cozy dinners, blending simplicity with indulgence.
Today, this homemade pasta dish remains popular. It’s a testament to creativity in the kitchen. Its journey from a basic recipe to a beloved meal shows how food adapts to what home cooks love most—flavor, ease, and the joy of sharing something homemade that feels special.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Every ingredient in this dish is key to its flavor and texture. Let’s look at the main parts you’ll need:
Chicken Selection and Preparation
Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes. Season with salt and pepper before searing in olive oil. This makes sure the chicken is tender and evenly cooked.
Creating the Signature creamy tomato basil sauce
The creamy tomato basil sauce is the heart of this dish. Start by melting 3 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan. Add 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, then mix in 3 tablespoons flour to make a roux.
Slowly add 2 cups chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream. Stir in ¾ cup grated parmesan, ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, and a pinch of paprika. As it simmers, the sauce thickens, becoming tangy and rich.
- 3 tbsp butter + 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 3 tbsp flour for thickening
- 2 cups chicken broth + 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup freshly grated parmesan
- ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 tsp paprika + 2 tsp Italian seasoning
Pasta Options That Work Best
Choose pasta with ridges or hollow tubes like penne, rigatoni, or ziti. These shapes hold onto the sauce better than flat noodles. Cook pasta in salted water (½ tbsp salt) until it’s al dente.
Fresh Herbs and Seasonings
- Italian seasoning blend (oregano, thyme, basil)
- Finely chopped fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Extra black pepper to taste
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil and a dash of red pepper flakes for heat. Fresh herbs make a big difference in the dish’s aroma.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Preparing this weeknight meal idea is easy. You only need basic kitchen tools you likely have. No need for fancy gadgets—just the basics to make cooking simpler.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large pot or skillet | For browning chicken and simmering sauce |
| Sharp chef’s knife | Cuts chicken evenly and safely |
| Cutting board | Essential for prepping ingredients |
| Measuring spoons/cups | Ensures accurate sauce measurements |
| Spatula/tongs | Mixes ingredients and flips chicken pieces |
A sharp knife makes cutting chicken faster, saving up to 50% time. Tongs are great for stirring sauce without spills, perfect for busy nights. A slotted spoon helps remove pasta from boiling water quickly.
While a silicone spatula can prevent sticking, basic tools work well. Using store-bought measuring cups saves time over guessing. The recipe is straightforward, needing no mandolines or immersion blenders.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s break down the steps to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. This recipe is perfect for a quick 30-minute dinner. It’s easy to follow and makes a delicious meal.
First, we need to prepare the chicken. Cut it into 1-inch pieces and season with salt and pepper. Then, heat some olive oil in a skillet and cook the chicken until it’s golden and fully cooked. This takes about 6-8 minutes.
Next, we make the creamy sauce. Start by melting butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, whisk in flour to make a roux and cook for 1 minute. Pour in white wine, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir in parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and seasonings. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes until it thickens.
While the sauce is cooking, cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta for 2-3 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain the pasta and keep it warm.
Now, it’s time to combine everything. Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the sauce. Toss until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. Stir in some fresh basil and serve with extra parmesan and red pepper flakes.
This recipe is quick, delicious, and perfect for a 30-minute dinner. Adjust the seasoning to taste before serving. Enjoy your Marry Me Chicken Pasta!
Secrets to Making the Sauce Extra Creamy and Flavorful
Want to make your creamy tomato basil sauce truly special? Follow these expert tips. Each step is crucial for perfect flavor and texture:
The Right Cheese Blend
- Grate Parmesan cheese fresh for the best melt. Pre-shredded can clump.
- Mix ½ cup heavy cream with 2 tbsp cream cheese for a silky feel.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the savory taste.
Sun-Dried Tomato Tips
| Oil-Packed | Dried |
|---|---|
| Chop finely for even distribution | Rehydrate in warm water first |
| Reserve 1 tbsp oil for sauce base | No added oil needed |
Pro tip: Use 2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes for the best umami without overpowering the basil.
Balancing Acidity and Richness
“The perfect ratio is 1 part acidity to 3 parts richness”
- Too tart? Stir in ¼ tsp sugar.
- Too heavy? Add 1 tsp lemon juice.
- Use ¼ cup fresh basil leaves torn at the end for brightness.
Remember to taste often as you add layers. These small changes can turn simple creamy tomato basil sauce into a dish worthy of the 2023 NYT “Recipe of the Year” award. Even small tweaks can elevate your home-cooked meals to restaurant quality!
How to Transform This Into a One-Pot Meal
Make your Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe into a one pot meal with just a few steps. This way, you keep the flavors strong and clean up is easier. Here’s how to make a creamy, all-in-one dish:
- Heat sun-dried tomato oil in a big pot. Cook 1 lb chicken (pounded ¼-inch thick) with 2 tsp Italian seasoning until it’s done. Take it out and set it aside.
- Melt 2 tbsp butter in the same pot. Cook 2 minced garlic cloves and 2 tsp Italian seasoning until it smells good. Add ¾–1 lb pasta and 2 cups water. Stir often until the pasta is just right (8–10 mins).
- Stir in 2 cups milk, 2 oz cream cheese, and ½ cup Parmesan. Mix until it’s smooth. Put the chicken back in, add 2 cups spinach and drained sun-dried tomatoes. Toss gently and cook until the spinach wilts.
Cooking pasta in the sauce makes it taste better. If it gets too dry, add ¼ cup water. Serve with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. This one pot meal feeds 6 in 35 minutes, with each serving at 544 kcal. For even more richness, use 1¾ cups heavy cream instead of milk.
Customization Options for Dietary Needs
Love this easy dinner recipe but need adjustments? Adapt this creamy pasta to suit your dietary preferences without losing flavor. Here’s how to make it work for you:
Gluten-Free Adaptations
Swap regular pasta for Banza chickpea shells or a corn-rice blend. Cook Banza 2 minutes less than package instructions to keep it firm. For thickening, use 1 tbsp arrowroot powder instead of flour. Pro tip: Stir it in after sauce simmers to avoid lumps.
Dairy-Free Alternatives
Replace heavy cream with canned full-fat coconut milk for a velvety texture. Use Follow Your Heart shreds or nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor. Try Daiya mozzarella for melty goodness—just add it last to prevent clumping.
Add More Veggies
Sauté mushrooms or roasted red peppers before mixing in sauce. Toss in baby spinach at the end for a nutrient boost. For extra fiber, add peas or zucchini during pasta’s last 5 minutes of cook time.
This easy dinner recipe stays family-friendly no matter the swap. Whether gluten-free, dairy-free, or veggie-packed, it’s still ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for diverse diets!
Perfect Side Dishes and Wine Pairings
The flavorful chicken pasta is great on its own. But, adding sides and drinks makes it even better. These extras balance flavors and textures for a memorable meal.
Complementary Salads
Light salads help balance the pasta’s richness. Try these:
- Arugula with lemon vinaigrette: Peppery greens and citrus brightness.
- Classic Caesar salad: Crispy lettuce and Parmesan contrast the creamy sauce.
- Roasted vegetable medley: Roasted zucchini or cherry tomatoes add earthy depth.
Bread Options
Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up sauce. Here are some choices:
- Garlic bread: Brush store-bought Italian bread with butter, minced garlic, and parsley before toasting.
- Focaccia: Herb-infused with a soft center and crispy crust.
- Whole grain rolls: A hearty option for extra fiber.
Wine and Beverage Recommendations
Choose wines that match the dish’s tomato and herb flavors:
- Medium Chardonnay: Oaky notes mirror the sauce’s creaminess.
- Pinot Noir: Light-bodied red to match the dish’s acidity.
- Sparkling water with lemon or Italian soda for a non-alcoholic option.
With these additions, your flavorful chicken pasta becomes a complete feast in under 35 minutes.
Storing and Reheating Your Leftover Pasta
Turn leftovers into a quick weeknight meal idea! Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep it in an airtight container, separating pasta and sauce to avoid sogginess. When reheating, do it gently to keep the sauce creamy.
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking.
- Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth for moisture.
- Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between intervals.
For a fresh twist, turn leftovers into a frittata or pasta salad. Add veggies like spinach or bell peppers to boost nutrition. Freezing isn’t recommended as the sauce separates when thawed. But refrigeration keeps it perfect for up to 4 days.
Need a fast fix? Leftovers make a 15-minute weekday lunch. Stir in extra Parmesan or basil before serving. Pair with a green salad for balance.
Remember: Never reheat more than once. Discard leftovers older than 4 days. Always use clean containers to avoid contamination.
Conclusion: Why This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe Deserves a Place in Your Recipe Collection
The marry me chicken pasta recipe is truly special. It combines creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta in under 30 minutes. It’s both comforting and impressive, making it perfect for any occasion.
This dish uses just 1 pound of chicken, 12 ounces of pasta, and some pantry staples. It has bold flavors without being too much for your kitchen. The sauce, made with 1 cup of heavy cream and Italian seasonings, adds richness. It’s also healthy, with 465 calories per serving, 30g protein, and 7g fiber.
As a comfort food recipe, it’s easy to customize. You can swap pasta for gluten-free options or use plant-based cream for dairy-free versions. It’s great for busy weeknights or special occasions. The name says it all—it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug.
Creating this meal is easy and memorable. With just 2 tablespoons of olive oil and simple seasonings, you’re only 30 minutes away from a dish loved by many. Share it, tweak it, and make it your go-to for any moment. The best recipes bring people together, one delicious bite at a time.