Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Irresistibly Creamy & Easy To Make

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the kind of dish that wraps you up like a warm hug and whispers, “you’re home.” The first time I made it, I wasn’t chasing trends or thinking about going viral. I was just tired after a long day filming a garden how-to, my boots still muddy and the mountain air crisp with pine.

Back in my cozy kitchen nestled in the foothills outside Asheville, North Carolina, I reached for a few pantry staples: sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and heavy cream. I was feeling nostalgic, missing a dear friend who had just moved out west. So I cooked the way I always do when I need comfort no measuring cups, just instinct. I browned chicken pieces until golden, added broth, poured in cream, and let it all simmer into something velvety. Pasta went in next, then a sprinkle of basil. I sat down at the counter, took a bite, and stopped for a moment.

That first taste? It was bold, creamy, and so full of heart that I actually laughed and said, “Well, someone’s gonna want to marry me if I keep cooking like this.” And just like that, Marry Me Chicken Pasta became a permanent part of my kitchen story.

Why Marry Me Chicken Pasta Deserves the Hype

What makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta so special isn’t just its creamy decadence or the way it looks on a dinner plate. It’s how easily it brings people together. Whether you’re making dinner for someone you love or treating yourself on a random Tuesday, this recipe delivers comfort in every bite.

In this post, I’ll show you how to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta your own. I’ve played with different versions, swapped ingredients, tested herbs, even tried a few unexpected sides. And while I’m all for experimenting, the classic recipe? It’s pure magic.

And if you love knowing what makes a recipe iconic, I’ve got you covered from nutrition tips to the dish’s origin and even a few pro secrets to make your Marry Me Chicken Pasta unforgettable.

Ready to fall in love with your dinner? Let’s get into it.

Craving a lighter, low-carb dinner idea for tomorrow? Try our Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust—it’s crispy, cheesy, and loaded with protein.

Key Ingredients That Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Irresistible

Chicken and Pasta: Choosing the Best Cuts and Types

The stars of any Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe are, of course, the chicken and the pasta. Choosing quality ingredients here makes all the difference in flavor and texture.

Chicken:
The go-to cut is boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They’re lean, quick to cook, and soak up flavor like a dream. Cut them into 1-inch pieces for faster cooking and better sauce coating. You could also use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier bite.

Before searing the chicken, season it with salt and pepper. For added depth, some cooks add smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes to boost flavor during sautéing.

Pasta:
Penne pasta is a top choice for this dish—it’s sturdy, has great texture, and holds onto sauce inside its tubes. Other great options include:

Want a creamy pasta dish with a healthy twist? Try our Spinach Cottage Cheese Pasta—a wholesome, satisfying option packed with flavor.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

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• Author: Lauren Saunders
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

A creamy, sun-dried tomato chicken pasta recipe that’s so delicious, it’s said to inspire marriage proposals. Perfect for a date night or weeknight dinner.

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Ingredients

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For the Chicken & Pasta:

• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 10 ounces penne pasta

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 2 teaspoons minced garlic

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese

• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning

• Fresh basil (for garnish)

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Instructions

• Cook the Pasta: Boil penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

• Cook the Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet, add chicken, and cook for 6–8 minutes until no longer pink. Remove and set aside.

• Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds. Whisk in flour to make a paste.

• Build the Sauce: Gradually add broth and cream while whisking. Stir in parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Simmer until thickened (about 5 minutes).

• Combine: Add cooked chicken and pasta back into the skillet. Stir to coat. Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan.

 

• Serve Immediately and enjoy!

• Prep Time: 10
• Cook Time: 25
• Category: Dinner, Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 646

Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Cream, and Italian Seasoning: Flavor-Packed Essentials

Now, let’s discuss what really sets this pasta apart—the sauce. It’s creamy, cheesy, tangy, and savory all at once, and that comes from a few key ingredients:

• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These are the signature flavor bombs in Marry Me Chicken Pasta. They bring sweetness, umami, and a chewy texture that plays perfectly against the rich sauce.
• Heavy Cream: This is the base of the creamy sauce. For a healthier option, you can substitute it with coconut cream or half-and-half.
• Butter & Garlic: Melted butter forms the fat base of the roux. Sautéed garlic adds a kick of flavor right from the start.
• Flour: A small amount (3 tablespoons) helps create a roux to thicken the sauce naturally without having to reduce it forever.
• Chicken Broth: It lightens the sauce, balances the richness of the cream and butter, and boosts the chicken flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Its salty, nutty taste brings all the elements together. Grate it yourself for the best melting and flavor.
• Paprika & Italian Seasoning: These herbs and spices give the dish its iconic warm and comforting aroma. Italian seasoning typically includes a mix of basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram.

Optional Add-Ons to Boost Flavor or Nutrition

Want to customize your dish? Here are some great add-ins:

• Spinach: For a nutrient boost and color contrast
• Chili flakes: If you want a spicy kick
• Mushrooms: Great for umami and earthy flavor
• Sun-dried tomato oil: Use it instead of olive oil when cooking chicken

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Prep Work: Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce Ingredients

Before diving into the stove-side action, make sure everything is prepped. This recipe is straightforward, but good timing and organization help everything come together seamlessly.

Here’s what you’ll need for the full dish, based on the original viral Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe:

Main Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 10 ounces penne pasta (or your pasta of choice)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Sauce Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil for garnish

Tip: Chop and measure everything ahead of time. Use a deep skillet or sauté pan to make mixing easier later on.

If you love creamy, indulgent meals like this chicken pasta, you’ll also enjoy the healthier side of comfort food with our Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust recipe.

Cooking the Chicken and Building the Creamy Sauce Base

Let’s break this down into two key parts: chicken prep and sauce prep for your homemade Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside. Avoid rinsing the pasta—natural starch helps the sauce cling, which is perfect for Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan.
Let the chicken cook for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until it’s browned on the outside and fully cooked inside.

Step 3: Start the Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. Using the same pan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter.
Sprinkle in the flour while whisking constantly to create a smooth roux.
This forms the base that thickens the sauce naturally—one of the defining traits of great Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Step 4: Pour and Simmer

Gradually mix in the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking steadily to blend.
Bring to a gentle simmer while continuing to stir.

Add the following:

• 1 cup grated parmesan
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

Simmer for 4–5 minutes to let the sauce thicken and the flavors come together. This gives Marry Me Chicken Pasta its signature creamy richness.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked chicken and pasta back into the skillet.
Toss everything gently to ensure the sauce fully coats both the chicken and the pasta.
Taste and adjust the salt or pepper as needed.

Looking for more flavor-packed ideas? Try our Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Stuffed French Toast—perfect if you’re a fan of savory-sweet pairings.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top your dish with chopped fresh basil and a little extra grated parmesan for that restaurant-style finish.
Serve hot and creamy—Marry Me Chicken Pasta is best enjoyed fresh off the stove.

Customizing Your Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Healthier Ingredient Swaps

While the classic Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich and comforting dish, it’s easy to give it a lighter twist without losing flavor.

Here are a few smart substitutions to make your pasta a little healthier:

Adding vegetables is another great way to customize. Stir in fresh spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to boost nutrients and enhance texture. This works especially well for those looking for healthy Marry Me Chicken Pasta or high-protein Marry Me Chicken Pasta variations.

Crockpot, Instant Pot, and One-Pot Versions

If you’re short on time or prefer a more hands-off approach, Marry Me Chicken Pasta adapts well to slow cookers, pressure cookers, and one-pot meals.

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Brown the chicken beforehand.
• Add it to the crockpot along with garlic, broth, cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and seasonings.
• Cook on low for 4–6 hours.
• Stir in cooked pasta and parmesan right before serving.

This is a favorite for busy nights, and commonly searched as “Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta” or “Marry Me Chicken Pasta crock pot.”

Instant Pot / Pressure Cooker Version

• Use the sauté setting to brown the chicken and cook the garlic.
• Add broth, cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and uncooked pasta.
• Pressure cook for 5–7 minutes.
• Use a quick release, stir in the parmesan, and serve.

This version is perfect for fast weeknight meals and ranks high for searches like “Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta” and “One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta.”

One-Pot Skillet Shortcut

No need to boil the pasta separately. Just:

• Add uncooked pasta and a bit of extra broth straight into the skillet.
• Let everything simmer together until the pasta is tender and the sauce is thick and creamy.

This simple method is perfect for beginners, and it’s one reason easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta continues to trend in search engines.

In the mood for a nourishing yet creamy pasta dish? Our Spinach Cottage Cheese Pasta is the perfect blend of comfort and wholesome ingredients.

Best Types of Pasta for Marry Me Chicken Recipes

Why Penne Pasta Is the Go-To for This Dish

When it comes to creamy, hearty sauces like the one in Marry Me Chicken Pasta, penne is the undisputed champ. Its tube shape catches and holds thick sauces beautifully, ensuring you get a rich, flavorful bite every time.

The ridges on penne help the creamy sun-dried tomato and parmesan sauce cling to the pasta rather than slipping off. This makes it an ideal choice not just for texture, but also for presentation and mouthfeel.

Plus, penne cooks quickly, holds its shape well, and doesn’t get mushy—perfect for recipes that require mixing and reheating.

Alternatives: Linguine, Fettuccine, Rigatoni, and Gluten-Free Options

Penne might be the standard, but it’s far from the only option. If you’re experimenting or need to cater to dietary preferences, there are plenty of delicious alternatives.

When using alternative pastas, be sure to adjust cook times. Overcooked pasta won’t hold the creamy sauce as well, and the dish could turn mushy.

What to Avoid

• Angel hair pasta is too thin and delicate for a heavy cream sauce.
• Elbow macaroni may work in a pinch, but lacks the elegant presentation this recipe deserves.

For something out-of-the-box, try adding spinach or protein pasta for a high-protein twist, perfect for queries like high protein marry me chicken pasta or marry me chicken pasta with spinach.

Serving and Garnishing Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Presentation Tips to Wow Your Guests

Marry Me Chicken Pasta isn’t just a creamy, comforting favorite—it’s also a dish that can truly impress when plated right. Whether you’re serving it on date night or at a casual family gathering, a few easy presentation tips can elevate the experience.

How to Plate Like a Pro:

Drizzle with sauce last: A final spoonful of creamy sauce over the top keeps everything glossy and inviting.

Use a shallow white bowl or wide pasta plate: It frames the dish beautifully and gives the sauce room to shine.

Layer chicken on top: Instead of mixing everything together, place chicken pieces over the pasta for a refined, restaurant-style appearance.

Create a pasta swirl: Use tongs to twirl the pasta into a loose nest—it’s an elegant touch that adds visual appeal.

Want to explore other eye-catching meals? Check out our Effortless Veggie Omelette Roll, another dish that balances simplicity with stunning presentation.

Fresh Herbs, Parmesan, and Side Dish Pairings

Great garnishes don’t just add beauty—they finish your Marry Me Chicken Pasta with flavor and texture.

Garnishing Ideas:

• Chopped fresh basil: A fresh, aromatic classic—especially good with sun-dried tomatoes.
• Freshly grated parmesan: Adds salty richness and visual contrast.
• Cracked black pepper: Enhances depth and provides subtle heat.
• Red pepper flakes: Ideal for spice lovers looking to turn up the flavor.
• Lemon zest (optional): Brightens the dish and balances the cream.

Perfect Side Dishes

Balance the richness of Marry Me Chicken Pasta with crisp, fresh, or lightly toasted side dishes. These ideas work beautifully for everything from casual weeknights to romantic dinners.

This section complements trending searches like “what pasta goes with Marry Me Chicken” and “what to serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta”, both popular among readers looking for full meal inspiration.

Craving something creamy and delicious, but still light? Don’t miss our Spinach Cottage Cheese Pasta — a tasty, nutrient-packed twist on classic comfort food.

Nutritional Facts and Calories Breakdown

Full Macro Count per Serving

While Marry Me Chicken Pasta is beloved for its indulgent, creamy richness, it’s also important to understand what you’re putting on your plate. Here’s the full nutritional breakdown for one serving, based on the standard recipe made with penne pasta and heavy cream:

This recipe is relatively high in protein, making it a good option for those on a moderate to high-protein diet. However, the saturated fat content is also significant, mostly due to the heavy cream and parmesan cheese.

Search queries like “how many calories in marry me chicken pasta” are common because people love indulgent dishes but also want to stay mindful of health goals.

How to Make It Lighter Without Losing Flavor

The good news? You can reduce the calorie count while keeping all that creamy satisfaction. Here are simple swaps and strategies:

Swap Ingredients

• Heavy Cream → Half-and-half or evaporated milk: Lowers fat without losing creaminess
• Butter → Olive oil: Healthier fat and still adds richness
• Regular pasta → Chickpea or lentil pasta: Adds fiber and protein
• Parmesan cheese → Reduced-fat parmesan or nutritional yeast: Preserves flavor with fewer calories

Add Vegetables

Bulking up the dish with spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini increases volume without drastically changing calories. This helps you feel full longer.

Watch the Portion Size

Serve with a side salad or steamed veggies to reduce the amount of pasta needed per person. This works great when you’re aiming for healthy marry me chicken pasta or low-carb variations.

Why This Dish Is Perfect for Romantic Dinners or Busy Weeknights

Marry Me Chicken Pasta isn’t just internet-famous—it’s kitchen-tested and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re cooking to impress a date, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving comfort food, this dish checks all the boxes: it’s easy, rich, flavorful, and wildly satisfying.

With minimal prep, pantry-staple ingredients, and flexible cooking options like crockpot, one pot, or healthy variations, it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. If you’re looking to wow someone—or just treat yourself—this is your go-to creamy pasta winner.

For a high-protein, gluten-free meal option that pairs perfectly with your pasta night leftovers, don’t miss our Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust.

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FAQs About Marry Me Chicken Pasta