The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe Everyone’s Talking About

If you’re looking for a recipe that is both easy and impressive enough to win someone over, look no further than Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This dish is a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors, with tender chicken, a rich sauce, and the comforting warmth of pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a romantic dinner or preparing a family meal, this dish is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds (or even thirds!).

Here’s everything you need to know about making Marry Me Chicken Pasta, step by step, so you can create this mouthwatering meal that just might lead to an unforgettable proposal—or at least some rave reviews.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine, for added flavor)
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta (or pasta of your choice)
• Salt (for pasta water)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, and dried basil.
• Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
• Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest. Once rested, slice the chicken into thin strips.

2. Cook the Pasta

• Boil the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, save about 1 cup of pasta water, which can be added to the sauce to help adjust its consistency.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

• Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: In the same skillet you used for the chicken, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
• Add the Liquid Ingredients: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth (or white wine). Stir to combine, and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
• Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Parmesan: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese. Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the cheese melts into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Adjust Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

4. Combine the Pasta and Chicken

• Add the Pasta to the Sauce: Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it directly to the creamy sauce, tossing to coat. You can also add a bit more pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly.
• Add the Chicken: Place the sliced chicken on top of the pasta, or toss the chicken into the pasta if you prefer. Stir to combine everything and let the flavors meld together for another minute or two.

5. Serve and Garnish

• Garnish: Serve the pasta in individual bowls or on a large platter. Top with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
• Optional: Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese for that irresistible cheesy finish.

Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Choose the Right Chicken: If you prefer a more juicy and flavorful chicken, consider pan-searing the chicken until golden and then finishing it in the oven. This will ensure the chicken stays moist and tender.
• Add Veggies: You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. Spinach wilts beautifully in the sauce, while mushrooms add an earthy depth.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat to your liking by adding more or less crushed red pepper flakes or even a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Use High-Quality Sun-Dried Tomatoes: The quality of your sun-dried tomatoes can really elevate the dish. Opt for sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, as they are much more flavorful than the dry variety.
• Make it Ahead: The chicken and sauce can be prepared ahead of time, and the dish reheats beautifully. If you’re prepping for a busy evening, cook the chicken and sauce earlier in the day, then simply cook the pasta and combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

Variations

1. Chicken and Shrimp Marry Me Pasta: Add some shrimp to the mix! Simply cook shrimp in the same way you did the chicken, or sauté them separately and combine them with the chicken in the final steps.
2. Vegan or Vegetarian Version: To make this dish vegetarian, replace the chicken with grilled or roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant. You can also use a plant-based cream alternative, such as coconut milk or cashew cream.
3. Spicy Marry Me Chicken Pasta: For a more intense kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of hot sauce into the sauce for an extra layer of heat.

Why It’s Called “Marry Me” Chicken

Why the name “Marry Me Chicken”? It’s said that the flavor combination in this dish is so irresistible, it’s bound to leave a lasting impression—so much so that you might get a marriage proposal after making it! Whether or not you’re planning a wedding, this dish is perfect for any romantic occasion or special dinner. The creamy, tangy, and savory sauce paired with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta makes for a combination that will certainly get your guests asking for the recipe.

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This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a crowd-pleaser that combines all the best elements of comfort food with a gourmet twist. Whether it’s a cozy dinner date or a special family gathering, it’s a dish that’s guaranteed to impress. Now, grab your apron, start cooking, and watch everyone fall in love with your culinary skills!