If you are looking for a comfort dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. This creamy, dreamy pasta blends tender chicken, vibrant sundried tomatoes, and a luscious sauce that comes together quickly but tastes like it’s been simmering all day. Its beautiful balance of flavors will have you coming back for seconds, and maybe even thinking about that perfect moment when you want to share a meal so good it almost asks for a lifetime commitment.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to this dish’s magic. Each component plays its part beautifully, from the tender chicken that soaks up every flavor, to the creamy sauce that coats the pasta in indulgence, right down to the bright pop of fresh basil that finishes it off with a zing.
- 1 lb. Pasta: Choose your favorite shape to soak up all that sauce – penne, fettuccine, or even bowties work wonderfully.
- 2 Tablespoons Butter: Adds richness and helps soften the onions while cooking.
- 1/2 Onion, finely diced: Provides a subtle sweetness and base flavor to the sauce.
- 1 1/2 lbs. Chicken Breast, cubed: Protein-packed and tender, it makes the dish hearty and satisfying.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Essential for seasoning both chicken and pasta water for balanced flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Pepper: Adds just the right hint of heat and depth.
- 4 Garlic Cloves, finely minced: A fragrant punch that elevates the sauce’s savory complexity.
- 1 1/2 cups Chicken Broth: The perfect liquid base that enriches the sauce.
- 2 cups Heavy Cream: Brings that silky, indulgent texture that makes this dish irresistible.
- 2/3 cup Sundried Tomatoes (in oil), chopped: These punchy, tangy bits add bright, sun-kissed flavor and a lovely color contrast.
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a subtle kick without overwhelming the dish.
- 1 cup Fresh Baby Spinach: Adds fresh green color and a mild, leafy note.
- 4 ounces Parmesan Cheese, grated: Melts into the sauce, lending a nutty and salty depth.
- 5-6 Fresh Basil Leaves: Chopped or torn, these fresh herbs tie the entire dish together with their fragrant aroma.
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (optional): Adds additional herby layers if you want a touch more complexity.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Begin by boiling your pasta in well-salted water until it’s perfectly al dente. The seasoning in the water gives your noodles a subtle flavor that resonates throughout the dish. Don’t forget to save about half a cup of that silky pasta water before draining – it’s pure gold for loosening your sauce later if needed.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Onions
While the pasta cooks, heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook it slowly until soft and translucent. This gentle caramelization brings out the onion’s sweetness, building a flavor base. Season the cubed chicken breast with salt and pepper before adding it to the pan. Cook the chicken until it develops a gorgeous golden exterior and is cooked through, about five minutes per side—this step ensures tender, juicy bites in every forkful.
Step 3: Create the Rich Sauce
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté just 30 seconds to awaken the aroma without burning it. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan with your spoon — those little bits are where all the concentrated flavor hides. Let the broth reduce and thicken gently for a few minutes, then stir in chopped sundried tomatoes, heavy cream, and red pepper flakes. Simmer everything together for five minutes to marry the flavors beautifully and let the sauce thicken just so.
Step 4: Bring in the Greens and Cheese
Now toss in the fresh baby spinach – chopping it ahead of time will make your sauce extra creamy and evenly green throughout. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and let it melt into the velvety sauce, adding a nutty richness that makes this step absolutely dreamy. The heat from the sauce wilts the spinach just right and incorporates the cheese so smoothly you’ll want to dive in immediately.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Here comes the best part: stirring the cooked pasta into your luscious sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, loosen it with some of the reserved pasta water, allowing you to control the perfect consistency. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or add that optional teaspoon of Italian seasoning for an extra herby touch. Finish with fresh basil for a pop of color and fragrant brightness that makes this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe taste like a restaurant-quality indulgence right in your own kitchen.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon generous portions onto plates, topping each with extra Parmesan shreds and ribbons of basil if you like. The creamy, garlicky sauce coating every piece of pasta and chicken will have you savoring each bite as if it’s your last.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate presentation and flavor, sprinkle additional freshly grated Parmesan cheese and scatter some fresh basil leaves or ribbons on top. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add that gourmet touch that makes every bite exciting. Garnishes aren’t just for looks here—they bring freshness and balance to the creamy richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
The creamy richness of this pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp, green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also makes a fantastic accompaniment to soak up every bit of the luscious sauce. For a vegetable side, roasted asparagus or steamed green beans with a squeeze of lemon balance the richness and add vibrant texture and color.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests or family? Serve the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe in individual shallow bowls, garnished with a small sprig of basil and a light dusting of Parmesan. For casual gatherings, transfer it to a warm, beautiful serving dish so everyone can help themselves. Adding edible flowers or colorful microgreens on top can bring a stunning, restaurant-style vibe right to your dinner table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this scrumptious Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce thickens as it cools, so you may want to loosen it with a splash of broth or cream when reheating. This dish holds its flavor wonderfully, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
While freshly made is best for this creamy pasta, you can freeze leftovers for up to two months. Use a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion. When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge. Keep in mind that the texture of the cream sauce may slightly change after freezing, but reheating gently will keep it delicious.
Reheating
Warm your leftovers over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. Add a little chicken broth, cream, or even reserved pasta water to achieve that fresh-from-the-pan smoothness. Be patient and gentle with reheating to avoid breaking the sauce or drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne, fettuccine, or bowties are wonderful choices, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand. Just make sure it holds the creamy sauce well, and cook it to al dente for the best texture.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk to reduce richness, though the sauce won’t be quite as thick or creamy. Using less butter and adding more fresh vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can also lighten the dish while keeping it flavorful.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative and replace Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast. Butter can be swapped for olive oil or a vegan butter substitute. Adjust seasonings to taste, and the dish will still be delicious.
How spicy is the red pepper flakes addition?
The amount of red pepper flakes is subtle and adds a mild warmth to balance the creaminess. If you prefer more heat, you can increase the quantity, or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I prepare parts of the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe in advance?
Yes! You can chop onions, garlic, and sundried tomatoes ahead of time and even cook the chicken in advance. Just keep the sauce and pasta components separate until just before serving for the freshest taste and best texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe that makes it a go-to for cozy nights, special occasions, or whenever you need a meal that feels both indulgent and satisfying. It’s easy to make, hard to forget, and has that perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors that strike a chord with everyone at the table. Don’t wait to try this recipe—it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your culinary repertoire.
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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 one-pan dish featuring tender chicken breast, sundried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and parmesan cheese tossed with your choice of pasta. With a rich and slightly spicy sauce made from heavy cream, chicken broth, and red pepper flakes, this 30-minute recipe promises a comforting and elegant meal perfect for family dinners or date night.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 lb. Pasta (your choice of shape)
Chicken and Sauce
- 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 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
- 1 cup Fresh Baby Spinach
- 4 ounces Parmesan Cheese (grated)
- 5–6 Fresh Basil Leaves
- 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 pasta water before draining the pasta. Set pasta aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, approximately 5 minutes. Season the cubed chicken breast with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook the chicken until lightly golden on the outside and fully cooked through, about 5 minutes per side. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan to incorporate that rich flavor. Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes to allow it to thicken slightly. Stir in the chopped sundried tomatoes, heavy cream, and red pepper flakes. Continue to simmer the sauce for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add Greens and Cheese: Stir in the chopped baby spinach and grated parmesan cheese. Allow the parmesan to fully melt into the sauce, enriching it with creamy texture and savory depth.
- Combine Pasta and Finish: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to combine everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, incorporate some of the reserved pasta water until your desired sauce consistency is reached. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if using. Finally, add fresh basil leaves and gently stir through.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and chicken, garnishing with extra parmesan cheese and basil ribbons for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water before draining; it helps loosen the sauce without watering down flavor.
- Chop the spinach ahead of time for easier incorporation and even distribution.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control spice level; start with less and add more if desired.
- Italian seasoning is optional but adds a nice herbal depth.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.
- Use fresh parmesan for best melting and flavor.
