Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Creamy, Cheesy, and Ready in 30 Minutes

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is one of those dishes that makes people stop mid-bite and say, “What is this magic?” With tender chicken, creamy Parmesan sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and pasta all tossed together, it’s no wonder this recipe has earned such a bold name. Whether you’re trying to impress a date, feed the family on a busy weeknight, or just craving comfort food that feels a little fancy, this pasta delivers. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a skillet of love-worthy goodness on the table—and yes, even picky eaters may just say “I do.”

Table of Contents

What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the pasta version of the viral “Marry Me Chicken” dish that swept through kitchens everywhere. The original recipe was so flavorful, creamy, and irresistible that people joked it was good enough to propose over. This pasta take builds on that idea by tossing the same velvety sauce—made with cream, Parmesan, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes—over fettuccine or your pasta of choice. It’s comforting yet a little indulgent, making it the kind of meal that feels like both a cozy weeknight dinner and a special occasion dish rolled into one.

Reasons to Try Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Why should Marry Me Chicken Pasta make it to your dinner table? For starters, it’s fast—ready in about 30 minutes, so you won’t be stuck at the stove all night. Second, the creamy sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, giving every bite a perfect balance of cheesy, tangy, and savory flavors. Third, it’s versatile—you can make it with spinach for extra greens, add a pinch of chili flakes for heat, or swap pasta shapes to suit your cravings. Honestly, it’s one of those recipes that looks impressive but is secretly easy, which makes it a lifesaver for busy moms or anyone needing a no-fuss dinner win.

Ingredients Needed to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Instructions to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

When it comes to making Marry Me Chicken Pasta, the magic truly lies in using fresh, flavorful ingredients that bring out the creamy, cheesy, and slightly tangy notes this recipe is famous for. Every item on the list plays an important role—so don’t skip or skimp! Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

• Chicken breasts (2, boneless and skinless): Tender chicken is the star here. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are quick to cook and slice beautifully into the pasta. If you prefer richer flavor, chicken thighs also work.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: A simple seasoning that lays the foundation for perfectly seasoned chicken and sauce.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Extra virgin olive oil adds a subtle richness and helps the chicken get that golden sear.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Garlic infuses the sauce with bold, savory depth. Freshly minced garlic is best, but pre-minced will do in a pinch.
• Sun-dried tomatoes in oil (1 cup, drained and chopped): The secret ingredient that gives Marry Me Chicken Pasta its irresistible tangy sweetness. They balance the cream beautifully.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): The base of the creamy sauce. Full-fat heavy cream is what makes this dish indulgent, but you can lighten it up with half-and-half.
• Chicken broth (½ cup): Adds a savory backbone and keeps the sauce from being overly heavy.
• Parmesan cheese (1 cup, freshly grated): A must for that nutty, cheesy flavor. Use fresh Parmesan rather than pre-shredded for the best melt.
• Fettuccine or pasta of choice (8 ounces): Fettuccine is classic because its wide noodles soak up the sauce beautifully, but penne or rigatoni would also work if that’s what you have. If you’re a pasta lover, you might also enjoy my Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef for another cozy dinner option.
• Fresh spinach (1 cup): Adds a pop of color and sneaks in some greens without overpowering the dish.
• Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A quick way to add herby, aromatic flavor without pulling out five different spice jars.
• Fresh basil (optional, for garnish): A finishing touch that makes the plate feel restaurant-worthy.
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a little heat and contrast against the creamy sauce.

These ingredients come together to create a dish that feels decadent yet approachable. If you’ve tried creamy favorites like my Chicken Florentine Recipe, you’ll love how this recipe combines the same richness with bold Italian-inspired flavors.

What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Pair Marry Me Chicken Pasta with a simple green salad or roasted veggies for a fresh balance. A side of garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that dreamy sauce. For drinks, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or even sparkling water with lemon pairs beautifully. And if you want dessert, try something light but satisfying, like these No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars—because pasta deserves a sweet ending.

Key Tips for Making Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To make Marry Me Chicken Pasta turn out just right, don’t rush the sauce—let it simmer long enough to thicken slightly before adding the cheese. Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded for the smoothest melt. If your sauce feels too thick, splash in more chicken broth. On the flip side, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes. Want extra flavor? Try seasoning the chicken with a pinch of smoked paprika before searing. Little tweaks like these make a big difference.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Leftovers of Marry Me Chicken Pasta are a gift for tomorrow’s lunch. Store cooled pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s silkiness. If microwaving, cover loosely and stir halfway through to prevent dry spots. While it’s best fresh, this dish holds up well enough that you’ll look forward to round two.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Thighs are juicier and work beautifully here.

Can I make this lighter?
Swap half-and-half for cream, or try Greek yogurt stirred in at the end.

What pasta works best?
Fettuccine is classic, but penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti are great.

Can I make it ahead?
Cook the chicken and sauce in advance, then reheat with fresh pasta before serving.

What if I don’t like sun-dried tomatoes?
You can use roasted red peppers instead for a sweeter flavor.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a trendy recipe name—it’s proof that simple ingredients can create something irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a date night at home, or just to spoil yourself, this creamy pasta never disappoints. And who knows? It may just earn you more than compliments at the table.

Visit our Pinterest for regular slow cooker recipe updates, or join our Facebook discussions where cooking fans exchange their favorite hearty meal ideas.

Print