Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
If you’re looking for a dinner that’s guaranteed to impress, our Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is the answer. With rich cream, sun-dried tomatoes, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish isn’t just a meal—it’s a proposal on a plate. Packed with bold flavors and simple ingredients, it’s no wonder this dish has taken the internet by storm.

What Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, savory pasta dish made with pan-seared chicken breasts, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luxurious parmesan cream sauce tossed with pasta. The name comes from the idea that the flavors are so irresistible, someone might just propose after one bite.
Ingredients for the Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Here are the exact ingredients you’ll need to create this rich and flavorful recipe:
Chicken & Pasta
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni work best)
Creamy Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained and chopped)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh basil
- Extra parmesan
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water for later.
2. Season and Cook the Chicken
- Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken until golden brown and cooked through (about 4-5 minutes per side).
- Remove chicken and let it rest. Then slice into strips.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
- Stir in heavy cream, parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Let it simmer until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Combine Pasta and Chicken
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Use pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Return the sliced chicken to the pan and mix everything gently.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Top with fresh basil, more grated parmesan, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a light green salad.
Why Everyone Loves Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of heavy cream and parmesan gives the dish an ultra-silky consistency.
- Bold, Savory Flavor: The sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs build layers of depth and warmth.
- Restaurant Quality at Home: It feels gourmet but is surprisingly simple to make in just 30 minutes.

Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese can affect the texture of your sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep it juicy by cooking only until just done.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starch helps the sauce cling better to the pasta.
- Double the Sauce: For extra creaminess, increase the cream and broth slightly.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ingredient | Substitute Option |
---|---|
Heavy cream | Half & half or evaporated milk (less rich) |
Parmesan cheese | Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano |
Sun-dried tomatoes | Roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes |
Chicken breasts | Chicken thighs or rotisserie chicken |
Pasta (penne) | Fettuccine, rigatoni, or even spaghetti |
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to rehydrate the sauce.
- Avoid freezing the dish, as the cream sauce may separate and lose texture.
Perfect Occasions to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This dish is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for:
- Date nights
- Family dinners
- Dinner parties
- Meal prepping for the week
- Special occasions
FAQs About Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, cook the pasta and chicken ahead, then combine with sauce just before serving for best texture.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has mild heat from red pepper flakes, which you can omit or increase to taste.
What kind of pasta is best?
Penne, rigatoni, and fettuccine hold the sauce well and provide a satisfying bite.
Final Thoughts
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a trend—it’s a dish that delivers comfort, flavor, and a little bit of romance in every bite. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just want a rich, satisfying dinner, this recipe will never let you down.
