Marry Me Chicken Pasta

If you’ve ever thought that the path to someone’s heart is through their stomach, get ready to be swept off your feet by our Marry Me Chicken Pasta. A word of caution: prepare this indulgent sun-dried tomato chicken pasta, and you might find yourself on the receiving end of a proposal!

This Marry Me Chicken recipe with pasta features juicy chicken thighs loaded with a sun-dried tomato luscious sauce infused with aromatic garlic, herbs, and parmesan cheese. Trust me: you will love this pasta recipe since it’s quick and super easy to make.

This chicken pasta recipe is an absolute winner in my family when it comes to pasta and chicken recipes. The flavors are incredible, and the best part is it’s a breeze to make. Plus, you’ll likely find most of the ingredients right in your pantry – just cook the chicken and make the sauce while your pasta is cooking, and you’re in for a delicious treat!”

I’m a huge fan of comforting, heartwarming, creamy pasta recipes such as Creamy Beef Pasta, Chicken Alfredo, or Tuscan Gnocchi. Our easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is no exception. 

The luscious creaminess of this dish is simply irresistible. Whether a special date night or a simple weeknight, it’s a crowd-pleaser. And the best part? It’s budget-friendly but tastes like a dish straight from your favorite restaurant!

Why This Recipe Will Win Your Heart

• Creamy: enjoy one of the best velvety, creamy, sun-dried tomato sauces that wrap your taste buds in creamy goodness.
• Tender Chicken: The chicken in the recipe is cooked to perfection, ensuring it’s juicy and flavorful.
• Easy To Make: It’s a quick recipe, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced cooks.
• Budget-Friendly: this recipe doesn’t require expensive or hard-to-find ingredients, so it’s budget-friendly.
• Versatile Recipe: feel free to adapt the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your preferences.
• Restaurant-Quality: Despite being homemade, the Marry Me Chicken Pasta tastes like something you’d order in a fine dining restaurant.
• Family Favorite: A dish loved by kids and adults, making it a crowd-pleaser.
• Perfect For Meal Prep: You can make it ahead of time. It’s perfect for meal planning and stays fresh for several days in the fridge.

What Is Marry Me Chicken?

Marry Me Chicken is a popular and delicious chicken recipe known for its rich, creamy, and flavorful sauce. 

It typically consists of pan-seared or sautéed chicken breasts simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and often, grated parmesan cheese. The name “Marry Me Chicken” comes from the idea that this dish is so irresistibly delicious that it might inspire someone to propose marriage after tasting it.

The chicken in this dish is usually cooked until tender and juicy, and the sauce is infused with the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and herbs, creating a harmonious and indulgent flavor profile. 

Marry Me Chicken is often served over pasta (as we did in this recipe) or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delectable sauce. It has become a favorite among home cooks and is commonly found on the menus of some Italian and American restaurants.

Ingredients and Substitutions 

Here is the list of the ingredients that we need to make this comforting and creamy marry-me chicken pasta recipe:

• Butter – This is the secret to a velvety and creamy pasta sauce. 
• Chicken Thighs –  The MVP for their juiciness and flavor. But hey, if you’re more of a breast person, chicken breasts work just as well. Just keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
• Olive Oil – Choose high-quality olive oil for frying. It’s all about that rich, Mediterranean flavor. No olive oil? No problem! Avocado or grapeseed oil are great substitutes.
• Salt & Pepper – essential for seasoning, enhancing the flavors of the chicken and the overall dish.
• Garlic – It’s all about that aromatic, robust flavor. If fresh garlic isn’t in the cards, garlic powder can step in as a handy backup.
• Chicken Stock – serves as the base for the sauce, infusing it with a deep chicken flavor. Vegetable stock or even water with a bit more seasoning can also do the trick in a pinch.
• Heavy Cream – The key to creamy bliss in your sauce. Out of cream? Mix milk with a bit of butter, or use half-and-half for a close match.
• Parmesan Cheese – use fresh grated parmesan cheese to add a nutty and salty component to the sauce, enhancing its depth of flavor. No Parmesan? Try Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor profile.
• Tomato Paste – contributes to the rich, tomato-based sauce, providing a light tomato flavor.
• Chili Flakes – add a touch of heat and a hint of spiciness to the dish, balancing the sauce’s richness. If you’re out, a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce can do the job.
• Oregano – is used to add depth and complexity to the sauce. Dried basil or marjoram can be used as substitutes.
• Thyme – Offers a woody, earthy touch. If thyme isn’t available, try rosemary or even a bit of dried sage.
• Sun-dried tomatoes – Provide a sweet and tangy contrast to the creamy sauce.
• Pasta – Penne is a superstar for holding onto that creamy sauce, but feel free to use what you’ve got – fusilli, rigatoni, or even farfalle can step up to the plate.

How To Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta 

Get ready to fall head over heels with this absolutely divine Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a love affair on a plate, and I’m here to guide you through creating this masterpiece that’s sure to woo anyone who takes a bite. So, tie on your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Melt the Butter and Sauté Garlic

Heat a large pan over medium heat, add olive oil, and melt the butter.

Now, add your minced garlic. This is where the magic starts! Sauté it for about a minute, just until it’s fragrant. Keep an eye on it – garlic can go from perfect to burnt in a heartbeat!

Cook the Chicken

Toss in those chicken pieces. Season them generously with salt and pepper; this is your flavor foundation.

Cook them until they’re perfectly done, usually around 7-10 minutes, depending on their size. You’re looking for a nice, golden exterior and a juicy inside.

Once done, set the chicken and garlic aside. They’ve done their part for now.

Start Cooking the Pasta

Bring a separate pot of water to a boil for the pasta. Remember, salt the water; it’s the only chance to flavor the pasta itself.

Cook the pasta, but stop 2 minutes shy of the package instructions – it’ll keep cooking in the sauce later.

Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Return the pan with the melted butter and chicken juices to the heat.

Add chicken stock, heavy cream, chili flakes, oregano, and thyme.

Stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is completely melted.

Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium. Give it about 3-5 minutes to thicken into a luscious concoction. Keep stirring to avoid any sticking or burning.

Add tomato paste and those chopped sun-dried tomatoes. They should blend in like they were always meant to be part of the sauce.

Combine Pasta and Chicken

Drain the cooked pasta, then add the cooked chicken bites and the sauce. 

Give everything a good mix. You’re aiming for each piece of pasta and chicken to be lovingly coated in that creamy, tomato-y sauce.

Let it all cook together for another 2 minutes – it’s like a getting-to-know-you session for all the ingredients.

Now, the most important part – the taste test! Season with salt and ground black pepper as needed. Trust your taste buds; they know what they’re doing.

Essential Tips for Success

• Prep Before You Cook: Gather all your ingredients and equipment before cooking to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
• Quality Chicken: Use high-quality chicken thighs for the best flavor and tenderness. Ensure they are evenly seasoned.
• Pasta Timing: Cook the pasta slightly under the recommended time on the package since it will continue cooking in the sauce.
• Creamy Sauce Balance: Be patient when simmering the sauce; this helps it thicken and develop a rich flavor.
• Cheese Incorporation: Ensure the parmesan cheese is completely melted into the sauce for a velvety consistency.
• Simmer Carefully: Be cautious when simmering the sauce to prevent scorching; stir occasionally.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Prep: Drain excess oil from the sun-dried tomatoes to avoid making the dish too oily.
• Combining Ingredients: Mix the pasta, chicken, and sauce thoroughly to coat every bite with the delicious flavors.
• Garnish and Presentation: Top your Marry Me Chicken Pasta with dried basil or fresh herbs for an appealing finishing touch.
• Cook Chicken to Perfection: Sear the chicken bites in a hot skillet with olive oil and butter until it develop a golden-brown crust. Ensure the Chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it’s fully cooked but still juicy.

Recipe Variations

You can add various ingredients to customize your Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe to your taste. Here are some ideas:

• Vegetables: You can incorporate spinach, grilled asparagus, sauteed mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for added color, nutrition, and flavor. Sauté them with the chicken or stir them into the sauce.
• Fresh Herbs: Enhance the dish with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or chives. Add them at the end for a burst of fresh flavor.
• Protein Variations: While the classic recipe uses chicken, you can try it with shrimp, salmon, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest can brighten up the sauce and add a refreshing citrus note.
• Artichoke Hearts: Chopped artichoke hearts bring a delightful salty flavor to the dish and pair well with the creamy sauce.
• Red Bell Peppers: Roasted or sautéed red bell peppers can add sweetness and a vibrant color to the dish.
• Bacon or Pancetta: Crispy bacon or pancetta bits can add a savory, smoky dimension to the dish.
• Red Pepper Flakes: If you enjoy extra heat, add more red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

Troubleshooting

Here are some common issues that may arise when making Marry Me Chicken Pasta and how to troubleshoot them:

• Sauce Too Thin: If the sauce is too thin, continue to simmer it on low heat until it thickens to your desired consistency. You can also add more grated parmesan cheese to help thicken it.
• Sauce Too Thick: If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out by adding a little more chicken stock, heavy cream, or even a splash of milk. Gradually incorporate the liquid until it reaches your desired thickness.
• Overcooked Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pan as soon as it’s cooked through (7-10 minutes) to prevent overcooking. Overcooked chicken can become dry, so watch it closely.
• Sauce Separation: If the sauce appears to separate or curdle, it may be overheating or adding the heavy cream too quickly. Remove the pan from heat and gently whisk the sauce to bring it back together. Be cautious when reheating the sauce.
• Overcooked Pasta: If the pasta is overcooked, it can become mushy. To avoid this, cook it for 2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest, then quickly drain it.

Marry Me Chicken Sides

When serving Marry Me Chicken Pasta, there are several creative and delightful presentation and accompaniment ideas to enhance the dining experience:

• Fresh Salad: Serve a crisp garden salad with a simple vinaigrette on the side to add a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Crusty Bread: Offer a basket of crusty artisan bread or garlic bread for dipping into the luscious sauce.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers can be served as a side or added to the pasta for extra flavor and texture.
• Lemon Wedges: Provide lemon wedges on the side for diners to squeeze over their dish, adding a zesty touch.
• Parmesan Cheese: Offer extra grated parmesan cheese for those who want a cheesy kick.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes can be a bright and flavorful garnish for a pop of color and sweetness.
• Crispy Bacon Bits: Crumbled crispy bacon bits sprinkled on top can add a smoky, savory note.

Storing Ideas

It is essential to properly store this marry me chicken pasta to maintain its flavor and safety. Here are some great ideas for storing the leftovers:

• Fridge: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Ensure they are cooled to room temperature before storing them. It can typically be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days.
• Freezer: The leftovers can be frozen for longer storage. Place them in an airtight, freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags and store them in the freezer for 1-2 months.

Make ahead: If you plan to make this Marry Me chicken pasta recipe ahead of time, I recommend storing the pasta and sauce in different containers. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce and mix it with the warmed pasta, and voilà, a delicious and convenient meal ready in no time!