If you are searching for a dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s a divine combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and sun-kissed sundried tomatoes tossed with your favorite pasta—each bite promising layers of flavor and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or simply indulging yourself, this dish is utterly irresistible and has lit up many weeknights with its rich yet fresh taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe plays a starring role. From the creamy heavy cream that creates that luscious sauce to the fresh baby spinach that adds a pop of color and nutrition, these essentials come together simply but purposefully. Let’s break down what makes this recipe so unforgettable.
- 1 lb. Pasta: Choose your favorite shape to soak up all that creamy goodness beautifully.
- 2 Tablespoons Butter: Adds richness and a silky base for sautéing the onions and chicken.
- 1/2 Onion (finely diced): Brings sweetness and depth once softened.
- 1 1/2 lbs. Chicken Breast (cubed): The protein heart of the dish, tender and juicy when cooked right.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- 1 teaspoon Pepper: Offers just the right bite to balance the creaminess.
- 4 Garlic Cloves (finely minced): Infuses the sauce with an irresistible warmth and aroma.
- 1 1/2 cups Chicken Broth: The savory backbone that helps thin and flavor the sauce.
- 2 cups Heavy Cream: Gives the sauce its luscious, velvety texture you’ll crave.
- 2/3 cup Sundried Tomatoes (in oil, chopped): Offers a bold, tangy burst that elevates the whole dish.
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a gentle kick to keep things exciting.
- 1 cup Fresh Baby Spinach: Brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh, earthy note.
- 4 ounces Parmesan Cheese (grated): Melts into the sauce to bring salty, nutty richness.
- 5-6 Fresh Basil Leaves: A final, fragrant touch giving the dish a garden-fresh finish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (optional): For those who crave a little herby complexity.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start with perfectly al dente pasta by boiling it in generously salted water following the package directions. Saving about half a cup of the starchy pasta water is a little trick that will help you loosen the sauce later if it gets too thick. Once cooked, drain and set it aside while you prepare that dreamy sauce and chicken.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken and Onions
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt your butter and gently saute the finely diced onion until translucent and fragrant. This step is key for a sweet base. Then, season your chicken cubes with salt and pepper and add them to the pan. Cook them until they develop a golden crust on the outside and are cooked through, about five minutes per side. Toss in the minced garlic last for 30 seconds so it doesn’t burn but still infuses the dish with that unmistakable garlic flavor.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and use your spatula to scrape up the browned bits stuck to the pan—those bits hold a ton of flavor. Let the broth simmer gently to reduce slightly. Then stir in the sundried tomatoes, heavy cream, and red pepper flakes. Allow this luscious sauce to simmer for about five minutes, thickening as it bubbles gently.
Step 4: Add Greens and Cheese
Chop your baby spinach and fold it into the skillet along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Watch the cheese melt and mingle into the sauce, transforming it into something decadently rich yet fresh thanks to the spinach. This combo is pure magic in every spoonful.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the cooked pasta into the luxurious sauce, stirring to coat every piece in creamy goodness. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water to reach your ideal consistency. Taste and adjust with more salt, pepper, and if you like, a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for that extra herbal kiss. Finally, tear fresh basil leaves and stir them in for an aromatic finish.
Step 6: Serve with Flair
Dish up this beauty and sprinkle with extra Parmesan and thin basil ribbons just before serving. It’s those small touches that make the dish feel extra special and inviting.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A final sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and vibrant basil ribbons instantly elevate this dish visually and flavor-wise. For a touch of texture, a light drizzle of good olive oil or some toasted pine nuts can be delightful additions that surprise your palate.
Side Dishes
This pasta sings on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for mopping up all that luscious sauce, turning your meal into a feast of comfort and satisfaction.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun spin, serve the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe in individual mini casserole dishes with an extra sprinkle of cheese and broil until golden on top. Or try layering the pasta and sauce in a glass bowl for a pretty, layered look that wows dinner guests before the first bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta stays beautifully creamy and flavorful when stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It’s a perfect next-day lunch that tastes almost as good as fresh.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to keep the pasta and sauce separate if possible, as freezing cooked pasta can sometimes affect texture. Freeze your sauce in airtight containers for up to two months, and reheat gently when ready to serve with freshly cooked pasta for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of milk or pasta water to revive the creamy sauce and prevent it from thickening too much. Microwaving works, but stirring halfway through helps keep it even and luscious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is flexible with pasta shapes. Penne, fettuccine, or even rotini all work wonderfully to hold onto that creamy sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with a coconut cream or cashew cream alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to keep it dairy-free while maintaining that rich, cheesy flavor.
How spicy is this dish?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth that enhances the flavors without overwhelming the creaminess. If you prefer more heat, feel free to increase the amount or serve with crushed chili flakes on the side.
Can this recipe be doubled for a crowd?
Definitely! This recipe scales up nicely for larger gatherings. Just be sure to use a big enough pan to cook the chicken evenly and adjust seasoning as you go.
What’s the best way to chop sundried tomatoes?
Sundried tomatoes packed in oil are softer, making them easy to chop finely with a sharp knife. Doing so ensures their flavor disperses evenly throughout the sauce.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe that makes it more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and bright notes from sundried tomatoes and basil come together like a celebration in your mouth. Don’t hesitate to make it tonight or save it for a moment worth savoring. Trust me, it might just become your go-to favorite.
Print
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breast, sundried tomatoes, and spinach in a rich Parmesan and heavy cream sauce served over your choice of pasta. This comforting and delicious meal comes together quickly, perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 lb. Pasta (your choice of shape)
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 Tablespoons Butter
- 1/2 Onion (finely diced)
- 1 1/2 lbs. Chicken Breast (cut into cubes)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 4 Garlic Cloves (finely minced)
- 1 cup Fresh Baby Spinach (chopped)
- 5–6 Fresh Basil Leaves
Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups Chicken Broth
- 2 cups Heavy Cream
- 2/3 cup Sundried Tomatoes (in oil, chopped)
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
- 4 ounces Parmesan Cheese (grated)
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Cook the chicken and sauté onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add finely diced onions and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Season the cubed chicken breast with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook the chicken about 5 minutes per side, until lightly golden on the outside and fully cooked through. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Make the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to incorporate any browned bits which add flavor. Let the mixture simmer gently for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the chopped sundried tomatoes, heavy cream, and red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add greens and cheese: Stir in the chopped baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the Parmesan melts completely and the spinach wilts.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat it evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and optionally Italian seasoning. Stir in fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and basil ribbons for presentation. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- You can use any pasta shape you prefer such as penne, fusilli, or rigatoni.
- If you like spice, increase red pepper flakes to taste.
- Chopping the spinach beforehand helps it incorporate easily into the sauce.
- Reserved pasta water is a great way to adjust sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
- This recipe can be made dairy-free by substituting heavy cream and parmesan with plant-based alternatives.
