Picture this: creamy, garlicky pasta with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sauce so good it could propose marriage. Spoiler alert—you’ll say yes. The internet lost its collective mind over “Marry Me Chicken,” and for good reason.
This dish isn’t just dinner; it’s a commitment. One bite and you’ll understand why people are naming meals after life milestones. No exaggeration.
Want to know the best part? It’s stupidly easy to make. No Michelin-star skills required.
Just flavor, comfort, and a guaranteed way to impress anyone, including yourself.
What Makes This Recipe So Good
This isn’t just another pasta dish. It’s a flavor bomb with layers of savory, creamy, and slightly sweet notes. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy punch, while the Parmesan and cream create a luxe sauce.
Garlic? Obviously. And the chicken?
Perfectly juicy. It’s the kind of meal that makes you forget about your phone. IMO, the magic lies in the balance—rich but not heavy, fancy but approachable.
Plus, it’s versatile. Serve it for date night, meal prep, or when you need to bribe your roommate to do the dishes.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts (2, boneless and skinless)
- Olive oil (2 tbsp)
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
- Chicken broth (1 cup)
- Heavy cream (1 cup)
- Sun-dried tomatoes (½ cup, chopped)
- Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated)
- Italian seasoning (1 tsp)
- Red pepper flakes (½ tsp, optional)
- Pasta (8 oz, fettuccine or penne)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Sear in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden (about 5-6 minutes per side). Remove and slice.
- Sauté the garlic in the same pan for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add red pepper flakes if you like heat.
- Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits.
Stir in sun-dried tomatoes.
- Add heavy cream and simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan until melted.
- Toss in the pasta and chicken, coating everything in the sauce. Garnish with fresh basil.
Serve immediately.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce. Freezing?
I wouldn’t. Cream-based sauces tend to separate when thawed, and nobody wants grainy pasta. FYI, this dish tastes best fresh—but let’s be real, leftovers rarely last long.
Benefits of This Recipe
Beyond being delicious, this recipe is a weeknight hero.
It’s quick (under 30 minutes), uses simple ingredients, and feels indulgent without breaking the bank. The protein-packed chicken and hearty pasta make it a balanced meal. Plus, it’s customizable—swap the protein, adjust the spice level, or add veggies.
It’s also a crowd-pleaser. Serve it to picky eaters, in-laws, or your cat (okay, maybe not the cat).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken. Dry chicken = sad pasta.
Use a meat thermometer (165°F is the magic number).
- Skimping on sauce. The sauce is the star. If it looks too thick, add a splash of broth.
- Using pre-shredded Parmesan.
It contains anti-caking agents and won’t melt as smoothly. Grating fresh is worth it.
- Ignoring the pasta water. Reserve a cup before draining.
It’s liquid gold for adjusting sauce consistency.
Alternatives
No heavy cream? Use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter (or dairy-free) version. Vegetarian?
Swap chicken for mushrooms or tofu. Gluten-free? Use your favorite GF pasta.
Hate sun-dried tomatoes? Roasted red peppers work too. The recipe is forgiving—make it yours.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely.
Thighs are juicier and more forgiving if you accidentally overcook them. Adjust cooking time as needed.
What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
Roasted red peppers or even cherry tomatoes (sautéed until soft) can sub in. The dish will be different but still tasty.
How do I make it spicier?
Double the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Feeling extra? Top with chili oil before serving.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead, but combine with pasta fresh to avoid mush. Nobody likes soggy noodles.
Final Thoughts
This isn’t just pasta.
It’s a culinary love letter. Whether you’re cooking for one, a date, or a hungry mob, Marry Me Chicken Pasta delivers. Easy, flavorful, and borderline addictive—it’s the dish that earns a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
Pro tip: Make extra. You’ll want seconds.