Introduction
Marry Me Chicken with Pasta is a creamy, flavorful, and utterly irresistible dish that is said to be so good, it might just inspire a marriage proposal! This dish features tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, served over perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to make at home, perfect for date nights, family dinners, or any special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Rich & Creamy Sauce – Made with heavy cream, parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes
- Easy Yet Impressive – Looks and tastes gourmet but is simple to prepare
- Comforting & Satisfying – A hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion
- Customizable – Works with different pasta types and proteins
- Crowd-Pleaser – Loved by both kids and adults alike
Origin of Marry Me Chicken
Marry Me Chicken is believed to have originated from a test kitchen recipe that went viral, earning its name because of its indulgent, romantic flavors. The creamy parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes gives it a Tuscan-inspired flair, making it a fusion of Italian and American flavors.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- Water for boiling
- 1 tbsp salt
How to Make Marry Me Chicken with Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat
- Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In the same pan, add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, sauté for 1 minute
- Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes
- Lower the heat and add heavy cream, parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes
- Stir until the sauce thickens slightly (about 3-4 minutes)
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente
- Drain and set aside
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it with the creamy sauce
- Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked
- Add the cooked pasta, tossing to coat evenly
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with extra parmesan and fresh basil
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Tips
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and smooth sauce
- Sear the chicken well for a rich, golden crust
- Let the sauce simmer gently to thicken properly
- Use sun-dried tomatoes in oil for extra flavor
Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken – It will turn dry; cook until just done
- Boiling the sauce too fast – This can cause separation
- Not seasoning properly – Taste and adjust salt and spices as needed
- Adding cold cream directly – Let it come to room temperature before adding
Serving Tips
- Serve with garlic bread or a fresh side salad
- Garnish with extra basil and red pepper flakes for more flavor
- Pair with a glass of white wine like Chardonnay
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh touch
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Chicken – High in protein, essential for muscle growth
- Garlic – Boosts immunity and heart health
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Rich in antioxidants and vitamins
- Olive Oil – A healthy fat that supports heart health
- Parmesan Cheese – Provides calcium for strong bones
Interesting Facts About Marry Me Chicken
- The dish gained fame due to its romantic name and viral popularity
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a deep umami flavor that enhances the dish
- Many variations exist, including adding spinach or mushrooms
Summarized Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Chicken, pasta, heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, parmesan cheese, chicken broth, olive oil, spices
Instructions
- Season and sear the chicken, then set aside
- Sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, add broth and simmer
- Stir in cream, parmesan, and spices to create a creamy sauce
- Cook pasta until al dente, then drain
- Return chicken to the pan, coat with sauce, and simmer
- Add pasta, toss well, and serve warm with garnishes
Final Thoughts
Marry Me Chicken with Pasta is a luxurious, comforting meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for a date night. With rich flavors and a creamy texture, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home!
