If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, comfort, and a little touch of romance, then the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is an absolute must-try. This creamy, garlicky, and sun-dried tomato-infused pasta paired with tender, perfectly seasoned chicken is exactly the kind of meal that has everyone asking for seconds, and maybe even proposing at the dinner table. It’s a beautiful balance of rich textures and vibrant flavors that come together effortlessly in one skillet, making it as easy as it is impressive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe plays a key role, whether it’s building the creamy sauce, infusing the chicken with spice, or adding bursts of color and freshness. The list is straightforward, yet thoughtfully combined to create a dish that’s simple to prepare but packed with delicious layers of taste.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (1 lb): Cubed for even cooking and tender bites throughout the pasta.
- Sea salt (1 tsp): Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing all flavors.
- Paprika (1 tsp): Adds a mild smokiness and vibrant color to the chicken.
- Onion powder (1 tsp): Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the meat.
- Black pepper (½ tsp): Provides a gentle, warming spice that wakes up the palate.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Used for searing the chicken to a golden crisp.
- Penne pasta (14 oz): Perfectly sturdy pasta that holds the luscious sauce beautifully.
- Water for boiling: To cook the pasta al dente.
- Salted butter (2 tbsp): Adds richness and a silky base for sautéing aromatics.
- Garlic (6 cloves, minced): Infuses the sauce with its unmistakable aromatic punch.
- Red onion (1 small, thinly sliced): Offers a slight sweetness and lovely color contrast.
- Dry white wine (¼ cup): Deglazes the pan, adding depth and a subtle tang to the sauce.
- Chicken stock (¼ cup): Enriches the sauce and keeps it flavorful.
- Sun-dried tomatoes (⅔ cup): Bursts of sweet and tangy that elevate the dish’s complexity.
- Heavy cream (1 ½ cups): Creates that irresistible, velvety sauce that coats every bite.
- Parmesan cheese (½ cup, finely grated): Melts into the sauce for an umami boost and creamy texture.
- Baby spinach leaves (3 cups): Adds freshness and vibrant green color, wilting perfectly into the sauce.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A bright garnish that lifts the entire dish.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little gentle heat.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cooking the penne pasta to al dente is crucial because it ensures your pasta will hold its shape and have the perfect bite when tossed in the rich sauce later on. Once cooked, drain it thoughtfully and set aside while you prepare the rest.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
Grab your cubed chicken and toss it with sea salt, paprika, onion powder, and black pepper. These spices season every savory bite and give the chicken that warm, inviting color. Heat your olive oil in a skillet on medium-high, then add the chicken pieces. Cook each side until golden brown and cooked through, roughly eight minutes, flipping occasionally for even crispness. Once done, remove and set the chicken aside safely—it’s about to reunite with the sauce for the grand finale.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics for the Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the salted butter. This base holds so much flavor and is perfect for softening your thinly sliced red onions. Let them sauté for about three minutes until they become sweet and tender. Add your minced garlic next, stirring for just about 30 seconds until it releases its fragrant aroma, signaling that the sauce is coming together beautifully.
Step 4: Deglaze and Build the Sauce
Pour in the dry white wine and chicken stock, making sure to scrape the bottom of your skillet to lift all those browned, flavorful bits left behind by the chicken. This step is pure magic and adds richness to your sauce. Let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until reduced slightly, concentrating those flavors.
Step 5: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream
Next, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes. Their chewy, tangy sweetness takes the sauce to another level. Let everything meld for a few more minutes before lowering the heat and pouring in the heavy cream. The sauce starts to thicken and swirl into a dreamy, luscious texture. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts completely, leaving behind that unmistakably creamy, cheesy goodness.
Step 6: Combine Spinach, Chicken, and Pasta
Toss in the baby spinach leaves and let them wilt naturally in the warm sauce, adding freshness and a vibrant pop of color. Return your cooked chicken and the al dente penne to the skillet, gently tossing everything together so each bite is coated with that rich, velvety sauce.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Finish your dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and, if you like a touch of heat, crushed red pepper flakes. Serve immediately while it’s hot and enjoy all that creamy, comforting goodness in every mouthful.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley adds a lovely herbal brightness that cuts through the richness of the sauce, making everything feel a little lighter and even more appealing. The optional red pepper flakes bring an exciting kick that balances all the creaminess, but feel free to adjust based on your heat preference.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is also fabulous for mopping up every drop of that delectable sauce. Roasted or steamed veggies like asparagus or green beans can add a nice crunch and freshness to complete the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive touch, serve the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe in warmed shallow bowls, garnished with a few extra sun-dried tomatoes and a twist of fresh lemon zest for brightness. You can also plate the chicken on top of the pasta for a restaurant-worthy look. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil and a scattering of Parmesan shards can elevate the dish’s visual appeal even further.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Be sure to cool it before refrigerating to keep the textures fresh. The chicken and pasta absorb the sauce beautifully, making for even tastier leftovers!
Freezing
Freezing this creamy pasta dish isn’t ideal because the heavy cream and spinach can change texture when thawed. However, if you must freeze, place portions in freezer-safe containers and consume within one month for best quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from breaking. Add a splash of chicken stock or milk if it seems too thick. Microwaving is possible but do so in short bursts and stir in between to keep the sauce smooth.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even more forgiving with heat and remain super juicy, adding a slightly richer flavor to the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe.
What type of wine works best for the sauce?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works beautifully here, providing acidity and brightness to balance the creaminess without overpowering the dish.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
It’s possible to substitute heavy cream and butter with plant-based alternatives, but the sauce texture will vary. Use coconut cream or cashew cream along with a dairy-free cheese substitute to keep that creamy richness.
Is it okay to use dried tomatoes packed in oil instead of sun-dried?
Yes! Just drain them well before adding, and if they’re packed in oil with herbs, those flavors will add a tasty twist to your sauce.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes while cooking the chicken or finish with a sprinkle on top when serving. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for an extra heat boost.
Final Thoughts
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is truly a showstopper, perfect for date night, special occasions, or even a comforting weeknight meal when you want to treat yourself. It’s creamy, flavorful, and surprisingly straightforward to make, proving that sometimes the best dishes come from simple ingredients brought together with love and care. Give it a try and watch as it wins hearts and appetites alike.
Print
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, penne pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach all enveloped in a rich parmesan and heavy cream sauce. This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a comforting yet elegant meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Pasta
- 14 oz penne pasta
- Water for boiling
Sauce and Vegetables
- 2 tbsp salted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup dry white wine
- ¼ cup chicken stock
- â…” cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 3 cups baby spinach leaves
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season & Sear the Chicken: Toss cubed chicken with sea salt, paprika, onion powder, and black pepper to coat evenly. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 8 minutes, flipping occasionally until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the salted butter. Add thinly sliced red onions and sauté for 3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Deglaze & Build the Sauce: Pour in the dry white wine and chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the pan to release browned bits. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes to infuse flavor.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Lower heat to low and pour in heavy cream. Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add Spinach & Combine Everything: Stir in baby spinach leaves until wilted. Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to coat well in the sauce.
- Serve & Garnish: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your Marry Me Chicken Pasta.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use a reduced-fat cheese.
- You can omit the white wine and substitute with additional chicken stock for a non-alcoholic version.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil can add more richness; if using dry-packed, consider rehydrating in warm water before adding.
- Feel free to use gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid breaking the cream sauce.
