If you’ve ever wondered whether a pasta dish could truly be irresistible, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is here to answer with a resounding yes. It’s rich, creamy, and layered with flavor thanks to juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a parmesan-infused sauce that clings to every bite of tender penne. The name says it all—this dish has that special something that makes people fall in love at first forkful.
This isn’t just your average weeknight meal. It’s bold, indulgent, and absolutely unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for date night, family dinner, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers comfort and wow factor all in one skillet.
Ingredients
Chicken Pasta:
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1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
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10 ounces penne pasta
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon pepper
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1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce:
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3 tablespoons butter
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2 teaspoons garlic, minced
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3 tablespoons flour
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2 cups chicken broth
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
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1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
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1 teaspoon paprika
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2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
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Fresh basil, for garnish
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Season your chicken with salt and pepper. Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Cook the garlic for around 30 seconds, or until it becomes aromatic. Gradually whisk in the flour, forming a silky, lump-free paste. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, then the cream, whisking constantly. Add the parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is smooth and beginning to thicken.
Step 4: Add the Flavor Bombs
Toss in the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes to deepen the flavor.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the pasta. Stir everything together until every bite is coated in that dreamy sauce. Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of extra parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent (and you should be!).
Details and Nutritional Information
Quick Overview
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
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Servings: 6
Nutrition Per Serving (Approximate)
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Calories: 645 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 50 g
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Protein: 40 g
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Fat: 32 g
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Saturated Fat: 16 g
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Cholesterol: 144 mg
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Sodium: 961 mg
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Potassium: 1247 mg
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Fiber: 5 g
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Sugar: 9 g
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Calcium: 278 mg
Helpful Tips
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Slice chicken evenly for uniform cooking.
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Use freshly grated parmesan—it melts better and adds a richer flavor.
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Don’t skip the sun-dried tomatoes! They bring a tangy sweetness that balances the creaminess of the sauce.
Substitutions & Variations
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Protein Swap: Try shrimp or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
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Pasta Options: Swap penne for rigatoni, farfalle, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand.
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Want some heat? Sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes to spice things up!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Just store the pasta and sauce separately, then reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to loosen it back up.
Is this freezer-friendly?
The sauce may change texture slightly when frozen due to the cream, but it’s still delicious! Store in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Storage Instructions
Keep any leftovers sealed in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat on the stove or microwave with a bit of extra cream or broth to revive that luscious sauce.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If this dish doesn’t inspire a proposal, it’ll at least earn you a standing ovation at the dinner table. Go ahead—light a candle, pour a glass of wine, and serve up this Marry Me Chicken Pasta. You deserve to be wooed, too.