If you’re on the lookout for a dish that combines creamy indulgence with the perfect hint of savory charm, look no further than this Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This recipe brings together tender chicken, luscious cream sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes in a way that makes every bite feel like a special occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a meal to impress someone dear, this pasta promises comforting flavors that are rich, vibrant, and utterly delicious.

Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role, whether that’s adding richness, tang, or a pop of color, making the dish balanced and satisfying. The list is simple but powerful, ensuring you get maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast: Cubed or sliced for quick cooking and tender bites.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Basic seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and sauce.
1 tbsp olive oil: Used to sear the chicken, adding a subtle fruitiness and ensuring a golden crust.
3 tbsp unsalted butter: Creates a rich base for the sauce, offering velvety smoothness.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic depth and a flavorful punch to the dish.
2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to the perfect creamy consistency.
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Adds savory moisture and layers of umami.
1 cup heavy cream: The key to that luscious, creamy texture that coats every bite.
½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that enriches the sauce beautifully.
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained, and chopped): Offers a pleasant tang and bursts of intense tomato goodness.
1 tsp smoked paprika: Infuses warmth and a subtle smoky note that elevates the flavor profile.
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning: Brings classic herbaceous accents that tie all the flavors together.
½ lb (8 oz) penne pasta: Perfect pasta shape for holding onto the creamy sauce.
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish): Adds freshness and a bright, herbal finish to the dish.

How to Make Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by giving your chicken a good sprinkle of salt and pepper—seasoning is what brings the flavor alive. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken pieces until they develop a golden-brown crust and cook through, usually about 5 to 7 minutes. This step locks in juicy tenderness and creates a flavorful base for your sauce. Once cooked, set the chicken aside; the magic happens next in the same pan.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Using the same skillet, melt unsalted butter to keep the richness going. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant—this step releases the garlicky aroma that’s essential to the dish’s depth. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for a minute or two, forming a roux that will thicken the sauce to that perfect creamy texture everyone loves in the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Next, slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking steadily to avoid lumps. Follow up with the heavy cream, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens into a smooth, velvety sauce. Then stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese and allow it to melt completely, enriching the sauce with a deliciously salty, nutty character.

Step 4: Add Flavor

Time to build layers of flavor! Add in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, smoked paprika, and dried Italian seasoning. These ingredients bring brightness, warmth, and herbaceous notes that make the sauce irresistibly complex. Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes so all those wonderful flavors meld perfectly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the seared chicken to the skillet and let it warm through in the sauce. While this is happening, cook your penne pasta in salted boiling water until it’s just al dente—tender but with a slight bite. Drain the pasta and toss it directly into the skillet, coating every piece in that creamy, flavorful sauce. This is where everything comes together, creating the signature taste of the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish by generously sprinkling fresh chopped basil over the top. This final touch brightens the dish with herbal freshness and adds a beautiful contrast to the rich cream sauce. Serve immediately while it’s still hot, creamy, and comforting.

How to Serve Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley are my go-to garnishes, bringing a fresh pop of color and flavor that balances the richness perfectly. A light grating of extra parmesan on top also adds an indulgent touch that invites second helpings.

Side Dishes

Because the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta is quite rich, pairing it with simple sides is ideal. Think crisp green salads with a tangy vinaigrette, garlic-roasted vegetables, or a crusty warm bread for scooping up every creamy bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls, garnished with basil leaves and a delicate drizzle of olive oil. If you want to impress, add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or chili flakes to elevate texture and heat. Presentation is all about highlighting the creamy sauce and vibrant colors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce may thicken, so just add a splash of cream or broth when reheating to regain that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Freezing

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it if needed. Place portions in freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. When thawing, do so overnight in the fridge and reheat gently with a little extra liquid to keep the cream sauce smooth and luscious.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of cream or broth as needed to help loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating works too, but stir halfway through for even warming and add liquid if it looks too thick.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding onto the sauce, feel free to use rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine. The creamy sauce clings well to most pasta shapes, so choose your favorite.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of flour, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be quite as rich or thick. For the best creamy texture, heavy cream is recommended in the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Can I prepare this dish without sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, if you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes on hand, cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers are good alternatives, though the flavor profile will be slightly different. The sun-dried tomatoes add a unique tang and intensity that’s signature in this dish.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken is cooked through when the outside is golden and the inside is no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes depending on thickness. To be safe, you can cut a piece to check or use a meat thermometer aiming for 165°F (75°C).

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Certainly! Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour and swap the penne pasta for a gluten-free variety. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it easy to adapt.

Final Thoughts

This Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s comfort on a plate, full of rich, layered flavors that feel like a warm hug. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or treating yourself after a long day, this recipe delivers that satisfying, creamy goodness every time. Give it a try and fall in love with every forkful!