As I stirred the creamy sauce, my kitchen was filled with the irresistible aroma of Marry Me Chicken Pasta, a dish that promises to sweep you off your feet. This divine fusion of tender chicken and sun-dried tomatoes, enveloped in a velvety cream sauce, transforms any ordinary meal into a romantic night in. Not only is this Marry Me Chicken Recipe With Pasta an effortless crowd-pleaser, but it also allows for endless customization—swap in chicken thighs, shrimp, or your favorite veggies for a personal touch. Even better, this comforting delight can cater to a variety of dietary needs, offering gluten-free and dairy-free options. So, are you ready to fall in love with cooking all over again? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Will You Adore This Pasta?

Versatile Options: This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also flexible—switch the chicken for shrimp or Italian sausage to mix things up!

Creamy Indulgence: Each bite offers a luxurious, creamy mouthfeel that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

User-Friendly: The simple steps make this meal a breeze, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Impress family and friends with this comforting dish that guarantees smiles all around! Pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for an unforgettable meal.

Health-Conscious Choices: With options for gluten-free and dairy-free adaptions, it’s a recipe that everyone can enjoy, just like my Loaded Chicken Club or Herb Chicken Mashed.

Marry Me Chicken Recipe With Pasta Ingredients

For the Chicken

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – 20 ounces of juicy protein; thighs can be used for a richer flavor.

For the Pasta

Penne – Perfect pasta shape to hold the creamy sauce beautifully.

For the Sauce

Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Adds a rich, tangy flavor; opt for those packed in oil for enhanced taste.
Tomato Paste – Intensifies the sauce with savory richness, making it irresistible.
Half and Half – Key for that creamy sauce, but can be substituted with evaporated milk for a lighter alternative.
Chicken Broth – Helps reduce sodium; using a reduced-sodium variety keeps it healthier.
Chicken Bouillon – Provides depth and richness; available in powder or cube form for easy use.
Flour – Essential for creating a roux that thickens the sauce to perfection.
Shallot – Adds a mild onion flavor; yellow onion can be a substitute if needed.
Garlic – Key flavor component; use 6 cloves for a robust taste, adjust per preference.

For Seasoning

Parsley – Freshness that brightens the dish up.
Oregano – Offers a classic Italian flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
Basil – Adds sweet and slightly peppery notes to the sauce.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for balancing the flavors; season to taste.
Red Pepper Flakes – A touch of heat to elevate the dish’s flavor profile.

This Marry Me Chicken Recipe With Pasta is an emotional journey into the world of comfort food! Enjoy crafting this dish that truly loves you back!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Recipe With Pasta

Step 1: Prep Chicken
Begin by slicing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in half horizontally, creating thinner fillets. Gently pound them to tenderize, ensuring they are an even thickness for uniform cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper, enhancing the flavor profile of your Marry Me Chicken recipe with pasta right from the start.

Step 2: Cook Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken fillets in the skillet, searing for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F. Remove from the skillet and let the chicken rest while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Make Roux
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add finely chopped shallots, sautéing for about 2 minutes until softened. Toss in minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for another minute until fragrant. Then, incorporate tomato paste and flour, stirring continuously for 1 minute to develop a rich base for the sauce, capturing the delicious bits left from the chicken.

Step 4: Finish Sauce
Gradually whisk in chicken broth and half-and-half, mixing until smooth. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and a pinch of the dried herbs, including parsley, oregano, and basil. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes a luscious sauce that envelops your Marry Me Chicken.

Step 5: Add Cheese
Once the sauce has thickened beautifully, reduce the heat to low and stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and integrated into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency that perfectly complements the flavors of the Marry Me Chicken recipe with pasta.

Step 6: Combine
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, along with the sliced chicken. Gently toss everything together, allowing the pasta to soak up the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency, ensuring every bite is comforting and delicious.

Step 7: Season & Garnish
Finally, taste your Marry Me Chicken pasta and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with additional fresh herbs for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm, and watch as your family falls in love with this indulgent and savory creation!

Make Ahead Options

These Marry Me Chicken Pasta preparations are perfect for anyone looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prep the chicken and sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply slice and pound the chicken, season it, and store it in an airtight container. For the sauce, prepare the roux and incorporate the broth and half-and-half, then store it in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, avoid adding the cheese until you’re ready to reheat and serve. When it’s time to feast, cook the chicken and finish the sauce as directed, stirring in fresh Parmesan and mixing it with cooked pasta for a restaurant-quality dish at home!

How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to revive the creamy texture of your Marry Me Chicken recipe with pasta.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow to cool completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding reserved pasta water or additional half-and-half to adjust consistency as needed.

Portion Control: Consider freezing individual portions so you can enjoy Marry Me Chicken Pasta on busy nights without having to prepare a whole batch again.

Expert Tips for Marry Me Chicken Recipe With Pasta

Hot Skillet: Ensure your skillet is very hot when searing the chicken to achieve a beautiful golden crust and lock in flavors.
Check Chicken Temp: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F after resting.
Perfect Pasta: Test the pasta for doneness 2 minutes early; this helps prevent mushiness. Rinse it to stop the cooking process.
Adjust Sauce Thickness: Use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as it will thicken when cooled.
Season Smart: Wait until after adding Parmesan cheese to adjust salt and pepper to ensure a well-balanced flavor that enhances your Marry Me Chicken recipe with pasta.

Marry Me Chicken Recipe Variations

Embrace your inner chef and let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on Marry Me Chicken Pasta!

Protein Swap: Choose chicken thighs, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a heartier flavor—each option brings something delicious to the table.
Add Vegetables: Toss in sautéed cherry tomatoes, zucchini, broccoli, or fresh spinach, adding color and nutrients that pop with every bite.
Cheese Variations: Blend traditional Parmesan with gooey mozzarella or smoky Gouda to explore exciting flavor profiles that elevate your creamy sauce.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap standard penne with gluten-free pasta and use cornstarch instead of flour for a dish everyone can enjoy.
Dairy-Free Option: Transform your sauce by substituting half-and-half with luscious coconut cream and adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy.
Herb Infusion: Elevate the flavor by introducing fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, imparting an aromatic touch that makes it uniquely yours.
Spice It Up: For those craving a kick, add jalapeños or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the sauce, ensuring your dish has a spicy edge that excites the palate.
Pasta Swap: Experiment with different pasta shapes like fettuccine or farfalle; each brings a new texture that can enhance your dining experience.

For more inspirations, check out my delightful Peruvian Chicken Aji or the comforting flavors of Smothered Chicken Rice. Enjoy customizing your dish!

What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Create an unforgettable dining experience with delightful pairings that enhance every luscious bite of this creamy dish.

Garlic Bread: The perfect crunchy companion to scoop up that luscious sauce, adding a warm, comforting touch to your meal.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing offer a refreshing contrast, brightening the dish’s rich flavors with each bite.
Steamed Broccoli: Add vibrant green veggies to your plate for a pop of color and a nutritious balance to the creamy pasta.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes serve as a marvelous canvas to soak up any extra sauce, making each meal feel indulgent.

For a sweet finish, consider pairing with:

Tiramisu: This classic Italian dessert, with its layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream, is the perfect romantic note to end your meal.
Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing freeze that cleanses the palate and adds a zesty contrast to the creamy richness of the main dish.

Marry Me Chicken Recipe With Pasta FAQs

What type of chicken should I use?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they cook evenly and stay juicy. You can also swap them for chicken thighs for a richer flavor or even try shrimp or Italian sausage for a delicious twist!

How should I store leftovers?
Very simply! Store your Marry Me Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When reheating, a splash of milk or broth can help revive the creamy sauce and keep it from drying out.

Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Definitely! To freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely. Then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months. For reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop, adding some reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.

What if my pasta is overcooked?
Don’t worry! If your pasta turns out mushy, it can still be delicious! Try adding some extra sun-dried tomatoes or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to brighten the dish. You can also transform the leftovers into a creamy pasta bake by adding cheese and baking until golden.

Are there any dairy-free or gluten-free options available?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, simply substitute the half-and-half with coconut cream and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. To make it gluten-free, swap out the penne for gluten-free pasta and use cornstarch instead of flour for the sauce!