Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, savory dish that combines tender chicken with a rich Parmesan sauce and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. This recipe creates a perfect harmony of flavors, making it ideal for date nights, family meals, or when you just want to indulge in something comforting and flavorful. Easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, this pasta dish will quickly become a favorite. Serve with fresh basil for garnish and pair it with a green salad or garlic bread for the ultimate dining experience.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, dreamy dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. With tender chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a luxurious Parmesan sauce, it’s perfect for romantic dinners or comforting weeknight meals.
INGREDIENTS
- Dried pasta: 8 oz of your choice, cooked al dente.
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp for sautéing the onion and chicken.
- Onion: 1/2 cup finely chopped for added flavor.
- Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced for aromatic depth.
- Unsalted butter: 1 tbsp, melted into the sauce base.
- Chicken breasts: 1 lb, cut into bite-size pieces and seasoned.
- Italian seasoning: 1/2 tsp, for herbaceous notes.
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp, for a subtle smoky flavor.
- Red pepper flakes: 1/2 tsp, for a hint of heat.
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp, to enhance the garlic flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: 1/2 tsp each, for seasoning.
- Heavy cream: 1 cup, for a rich and creamy sauce.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, melted into the sauce.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: 1/2 cup, chopped for a tangy-sweet bite.
- Fresh basil leaves: For garnish and a fresh aroma.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
- Step 2:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Step 3:
- Sauté onions until softened (2-3 minutes), then add minced garlic and butter. Cook until fragrant (30 seconds).
- Step 4:
- Add chicken pieces. Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes until browned.
- Step 5:
- Stir in heavy cream, reserved pasta water, and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Step 6:
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir.
- Step 7:
- Toss cooked pasta in the sauce, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Step 8:
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve with a green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed.
Helpful Notes
- Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for a softer texture and richer flavor.
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Always reserve pasta water—it helps the sauce adhere to the pasta better.
- Fresh basil is key for a burst of flavor and aroma. Add just before serving for the best results.