Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

This hearty Marry Me Chicken Pasta has become my go-to recipe for impressing guests with minimal effort. The creamy sauce, tender chicken chunks, and sun-dried tomatoes create a restaurant-worthy dish that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen when it really comes together in just 30 minutes.

I first made this for my partner on our anniversary when I was running late and needed something impressive fast. The name proved fitting as they jokingly proposed after the first bite. Now it's our tradition for special celebrations.

Ingredients

• Dried pasta of choice: The foundation of this dish. I recommend penne or fettuccine as they hold the creamy sauce beautifully
• Olive oil: Adds a subtle flavor that complements the Mediterranean ingredients
• Onion: Creates an aromatic base that enriches the entire sauce
• Garlic: Fresh minced cloves provide essential flavor that bottled versions cannot match
• Butter: Creates richness and helps brown the chicken perfectly
• Chicken breasts: Provides lean protein. Look for hormone-free varieties for best flavor
• Italian seasoning: A time-saving blend that adds depth without requiring multiple dried herbs
• Smoked paprika: Adds subtle smoky flavor that elevates the dish beyond basic cream sauce
• Red pepper flakes: Provides a gentle heat that balances the richness
• Heavy cream: The luxurious base of the sauce. Choose high quality for best results
• Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty flavor and thickens the sauce naturally. Always grate fresh
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Sweet tangy bursts that brighten each bite. Oil-packed varieties work best
• Fresh basil: Adds color and aromatic freshness that dried simply cannot provide

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add generous salt until it tastes like sea water. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining which can help thin the sauce if needed later.

Sauté Aromatics:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. Add chopped onions and cook for 3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned which can create bitterness.

Cook the Chicken:

Add butter to the pan and allow it to melt completely. Add chicken pieces and all seasonings. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until chicken is golden brown on the outside and no longer pink inside. The fond developing on the pan bottom will add tremendous flavor.

Create the Sauce:

Pour in heavy cream and scrape the bottom of the pan to incorporate all the flavorful bits. Reduce heat to medium low and add Parmesan cheese gradually while stirring. Allow sauce to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it coats the back of a spoon.

Combine and Finish:

Add sun-dried tomatoes and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together using tongs until every strand is coated with sauce. If sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Serve and Garnish:

Transfer to serving plates or a large platter. Top with torn fresh basil leaves and additional freshly grated Parmesan. Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor experience.

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You Must Know

The sun-dried tomatoes are truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered their importance when I ran out once and made it without them. While still good, it lacked that special something that makes this dish memorable. Their concentrated sweet tanginess cuts through the richness of the cream and creates perfect balance.

Make Ahead Tips

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta reheats beautifully which makes it perfect for busy households. Prepare the entire dish up to 2 days ahead, store in an airtight container, and refrigerate. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to revitalize the sauce as it will thicken considerably in the refrigerator. Warm over medium low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching the cream sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

Not everyone keeps the same ingredients on hand, so I've tested several variations over the years. Chicken thighs work wonderfully as a substitute for breasts, offering even more flavor and tenderness. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream provides similar richness though it does add a subtle coconut flavor. Half and half can replace heavy cream for a lighter version, though the sauce won't be quite as rich. Fresh cherry tomatoes can stand in for sun-dried in a pinch, but cook them down for a few extra minutes to concentrate their flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

Turn this hearty pasta into a complete meal with thoughtful accompaniments. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil provides a peppery contrast to the rich pasta. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette offers the perfect vehicle for soaking up extra sauce. For wine pairing, opt for a medium-bodied white like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay that won't overpower the delicate cream sauce but has enough body to stand up to the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I lighten the sauce?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce calories and fat while maintaining creaminess.

→ Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use your favorite pasta, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti, based on your preference.

→ What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

You can use cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a similar texture and flavor profile.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to enhance the heat level.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce separately and cook the pasta fresh before serving. Mix them together when ready to serve.