Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, it’s one of those recipes that really impresses without taking forever to make. Trust me, it’s perfect for date nights, cozy dinners, or anytime you want to elevate a simple pasta dish without breaking a sweat.

I first tried making this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe on a chilly evening when I wanted something comforting but special. The silky sauce combining sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and creamy parmesan had me hooked instantly. Plus, it’s a forgiving recipe — you can easily swap ingredients or jazz it up, which always makes me feel confident in the kitchen. You’re going to love how satisfying and versatile this pasta is.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe brings something unique to the table, blending creamy, tangy, and savory notes beautifully. When you’re grocery shopping, look for good-quality sun-dried tomatoes and freshly grated parmesan to really make a difference.

• Uncooked pasta: I usually go with penne or rigatoni because they hold the sauce so well, but feel free to pick your favorite shape.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth sauce base.
• Flour: Just a little to thicken the sauce without any lumps — a quick sprinkle goes a long way.
• Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic gives this dish its aromatic punch—don’t skip it!
• Tomato paste: This intensifies the tomato flavor for a deeper, more savory sauce.
• Dry white wine or chicken broth: I prefer white wine for a touch of acidity, but broth works great if you want to keep it non-alcoholic.
• Heavy/whipping cream: The key to that luscious, velvety sauce you’ll want to dive into.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: These little bursts of concentrated sweetness and tang balance the cream perfectly.
• Dried oregano: Adds subtle herbaceous warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Just a pinch for a gentle kick—you can always add more based on your spice tolerance.
• Cooked/rotisserie chicken: Using shredded rotisserie chicken makes this recipe a breeze on busy nights.
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese: I keep some extra on hand to sprinkle on top for that irresistible umami burst.
• Fresh basil: Torn or chopped—this herb brightens up the dish and adds a fresh finish.
• Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

Variations

One of the best things about this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is how easy it is to tweak, so you can personalize it to your taste or what you have on hand. I love trying small swaps to keep it interesting without losing the essence of that creamy, comforting dish.

• Variation: Swap chicken for shrimp if I’m in the mood for seafood — the sauce pairs beautifully with it and cooks up quickly.
• Variation: Use gluten-free pasta to keep it gluten-conscious without missing out on flavor or texture.
• Variation: Add a handful of spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an easy veggie boost — it adds color and nutrition without overpowering the sauce.
• Variation: For a lighter version, I sometimes substitute half the cream with half-and-half or whole milk.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the pasta just right

Start by boiling your pasta in salted water according to the package directions until it’s al dente — you want it tender but still with a slight bite since it will finish cooking in the sauce later. I like to save about half a cup of pasta water before draining; that starchy water can be a lifesaver if your sauce needs loosening up.

Step 2: Build the sauce base

In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat and whisk in the flour, stirring constantly to make a roux without lumps. Cook this for about a minute to get rid of that raw flour taste. Then, add minced garlic and tomato paste, stirring until fragrant — this is where the magic begins.

Step 3: Deglaze and add creaminess

Pour in the dry white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer until the liquid reduces slightly, concentrating those flavors. Now, stir in the heavy cream along with the sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Let the sauce bubble gently while it thickens — it should coat the back of a spoon nicely.

Step 4: Bring it all together with chicken and cheese

Add the shredded cooked chicken and grated parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until the cheese melts and everything is heated through. Taste and season with salt and pepper — this is where you make it your own. Finally, toss in the cooked pasta and fresh basil, mixing gently to ensure every bite is saucy and flavorful.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

I usually finish with a generous sprinkle of extra parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves on top — it looks inviting and adds a fresh lift right before you dig in. A little cracked black pepper over the top is my go-to, too, for that subtle pop of spice.

Side Dishes

To keep things balanced, I love serving Marry Me Chicken Pasta alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that creamy sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also complement the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, I’ve plated this pasta in shallow bowls topped with edible flowers and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. It always makes my guests feel like they’re eating something truly fancy while being cozy and comforting at the same time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I love making extra of this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe because it reheats so well. To store leftovers, I pop them into an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce might thicken, but a splash of cream or broth while reheating brings it back to silky perfection.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this dish a couple of times, but I recommend freezing the sauce and cooked chicken separately from the pasta when you can. This prevents the pasta from getting mushy. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw and reheat gently, then toss with freshly cooked pasta for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheating on the stovetop over low heat works best for me. Adding a splash of broth or cream keeps the sauce from drying out or becoming grainy. If you’re in a rush, microwave in short bursts stirring in between usually does the trick, just be careful not to overheat.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it strikes that perfect balance between comforting and fancy. It’s easy to whip up on a weeknight yet impressive enough for guests or date night dinners. I truly hope you give it a try—it’s one recipe that friends keep asking me for, and I’m confident you’ll love how it turns out just as much as I do!

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