A rich and creamy pasta dish with tender chicken cooked in a flavorful sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a touch of Parmesan—this is the dish you’ll want to make for a special night in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken with a luxurious sun-dried tomato cream sauce that’s utterly irresistible. The name comes from the idea that it’s so delicious, serving it might just lead to a marriage proposal! Perfect for date nights, special occasions, or when you want to impress your family with minimal effort, this pasta dish strikes the perfect balance between elegant and comforting. The creamy sauce with bursts of sun-dried tomato flavor coats each piece of pasta beautifully, while the herbs and Parmesan add depth that makes every bite memorable.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide the protein foundation for this dish. They cook quickly and remain tender when sliced, making them perfect for absorbing the flavors of the sauce.
Olive oil is used to sauté the chicken to golden perfection. Its mild flavor complements the other ingredients without overpowering them.
Salt and pepper are essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken and balancing the richness of the cream sauce.
Garlic adds aromatic depth to the dish. Fresh minced garlic provides the best flavor, but pre-minced garlic from a jar can work in a pinch.
Sun-dried tomatoes are the star ingredient that gives this dish its distinctive flavor. They provide intense, sweet-tart tomato flavor and beautiful color contrast. You can use oil-packed or dry varieties, just make sure to chop them well.
Heavy cream creates the luxurious base for the sauce. Its high fat content ensures a silky texture that won’t separate during cooking.
Chicken broth adds savory depth to the sauce while thinning the cream to the perfect consistency. Use low-sodium if you’re watching salt intake.
Parmesan cheese contributes nuttiness and saltiness while helping to thicken the sauce. Freshly grated works best as it melts more smoothly than pre-packaged options.
Dried oregano and basil infuse the sauce with classic Italian herb flavors that complement the tomatoes perfectly. These dried herbs hold up well in cooking.
Red pepper flakes add a subtle heat that balances the richness of the cream sauce. They’re optional but highly recommended for the perfect flavor balance.
Pasta serves as the vehicle for the incredible sauce. Penne catches sauce in its tubes, while spaghetti offers a more twirl-able experience.
Fresh basil or parsley brightens the finished dish with color and fresh flavor, making for an appetizing presentation.
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to cook until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips and return it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes 4 generous servings, perfect for a family dinner or a dinner for two with leftovers for lunch the next day. The dish takes just 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, for a total time of 35 minutes from start to finish. Each serving contains approximately 550 calories, making it a satisfying main course.
Variations
Vegetable Additions: Add spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers to incorporate more vegetables.
Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp or salmon for a seafood version.
Lightened Up: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and increase the chicken broth slightly for a lighter sauce.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Spicy Version: Double the red pepper flakes and add a dash of cayenne for those who enjoy heat.
Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an earthier flavor profile.
Creamy Pesto Variation: Stir in 2 tablespoons of pesto sauce into the cream mixture for a basil-forward flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigeration: Store leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: While cream-based sauces don’t typically freeze well, you can freeze this dish if necessary. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. The sauce may separate slightly upon thawing.
Reheating on Stovetop: For best results, reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of cream or chicken broth to revive the sauce if it seems too thick.
Microwave Method: Reheat in the microwave at 70% power, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through. This helps prevent the sauce from separating.
Refreshing: Add a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan and herbs after reheating to brighten up the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They tend to be more forgiving and stay juicier than breasts. Adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half can work as a lighter alternative, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich. For a dairy-free option, full-fat coconut milk provides similar creaminess, though it will impart a subtle coconut flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but for best results, prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time but cook and add the pasta just before serving. Refresh the sauce with a splash of cream or broth when reheating.
My sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it?
Allow the sauce to simmer a bit longer uncovered, which will reduce and thicken it naturally. Alternatively, you can add an extra tablespoon or two of Parmesan cheese, which helps thicken the sauce.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and substitute nutritional yeast for the Parmesan cheese. The flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious.
What sides pair well with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments. The rich sauce pairs particularly well with lemony or vinegar-dressed sides that cut through the creaminess.
Can I use sun-dried tomato paste instead of chopped sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, you can substitute 1-2 tablespoons of sun-dried tomato paste for the chopped tomatoes. This will distribute the flavor more evenly throughout the sauce, though you’ll miss the textural element.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken to save time?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken can be added directly to the sauce after it’s thickened. This cuts down cooking time significantly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?
With the recommended 1 teaspoon, the dish has a mild warmth rather than significant heat. Adjust according to your preference—omit completely for no spice or double for a more pronounced kick.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken Pasta deserves its romantic name, combining tender chicken with a crave-worthy sauce that’s both sophisticated and comforting. The sun-dried tomatoes provide bursts of intense flavor against the creamy backdrop, while herbs and Parmesan add depth and complexity. What makes this dish truly special is its balance—rich yet not overwhelming, flavorful yet not complicated.
Whether you’re cooking to impress someone special or simply treating yourself to an elevated pasta night, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The versatility of the dish also means you can adapt it to what you have on hand or your dietary preferences without losing its signature appeal. Give this Marry Me Chicken Pasta a try, and it might just become your new go-to dish for occasions worth celebrating.
Print
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A rich and creamy pasta dish with tender chicken cooked in a flavorful sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a touch of Parmesan—perfect for a special night in!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 oz pasta (penne or spaghetti)
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to cook until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips and return it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- You can adjust the spice level by adding or omitting the red pepper flakes.
- Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape for this recipe.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
