A Romantic, One-Pan Dinner That Lives Up to Its Name!
Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate — rich, comforting, and absolutely packed with flavor. It’s no surprise that it gets its name from the legend that this meal is so good, it just might earn you a marriage proposal!
Whether you’re cooking for someone special or want to impress your family with a deliciously creamy pasta, this recipe has everything: juicy seared chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan-laced cream sauce, and tender penne pasta all in one skillet.
⭐ Why You’ll Love It
- Quick & easy – Ready in just 30 minutes!
- Perfect for date night or weeknight – Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for a Tuesday.
- One-skillet comfort food – Fewer dishes, more flavor.
- Customizable – Add spinach, mushrooms, or a dash of heat to make it your own.
📝 Ingredients
- 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts – Sliced or halved if thick.
- 10 oz penne pasta – Or substitute rigatoni, fettuccine, or gluten-free pasta.
- 3 tbsp butter – For sautéing and building the roux.
- 2 cups chicken broth – Low sodium if possible.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Creates that rich, velvety texture.
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese – Freshly grated for best flavor and melt.
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes – Packed in oil or rehydrated if dried.
- 2 tsp minced garlic – Adds depth and aroma.
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour – To thicken the sauce.
- 1 tsp paprika – Adds subtle smokiness and color.
- 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning – Or use a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Olive oil – For cooking the chicken.
- Optional garnish: Fresh basil and extra parmesan.
🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Tip: Drizzle a little olive oil over the cooked pasta to prevent it from sticking while you make the sauce.
2. Sear the Chicken
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken and sear for about 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and slice or dice into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet (don’t wipe it clean – those browned bits add flavor!), melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously until the sauce begins to thicken.
Add the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy.
4. Add Flavor & Simmer
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, Italian seasoning, and more salt and pepper to taste.
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken further.
5. Combine Chicken & Pasta
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Toss gently to coat everything in the luscious sauce.
Heat through for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is hot and well coated.
6. Serve & Enjoy
Plate your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta and garnish with fresh chopped basil and a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately for the best creamy texture. Pair with a glass of white wine and a crisp side salad for a full restaurant-quality experience at home.
🔄 Recipe Variations
- Add veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli during the final step.
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or swap paprika for smoked paprika or cayenne.
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and swap flour for a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch.
- Dairy-free option: Substitute with coconut cream and nutritional yeast (flavor will change slightly).
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This pasta is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic bread or crusty sourdough
- Simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables (asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts)
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.
- Not freezer-friendly due to the creamy sauce.
📊 Nutrition Facts (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 650
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
💬 Final Thoughts
This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a delicious dinner — it’s a recipe full of love, warmth, and the kind of flavor that brings people together around the table. Whether you’re sharing it with someone special or simply treating yourself, it’s guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds — and maybe even a ring! 💍