Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe: A Dish So Good, It Sparks Proposals

ByEmma

If you’ve ever needed a meal that screams “I love you” without actually saying it, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is your golden ticket. Legend has it this dish got its name because it’s so irresistibly delicious, one bite could lead to a marriage proposal. (No guarantees, but we like the drama.)

Creamy, garlicky, and packed with sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan, this pasta is the ultimate comfort food with a fancy twist. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a family dinner, or just because you deserve it, this recipe won’t disappoint.

Contents

Why You’ll Fall in Love With This Dish

  • Rich & Creamy – A velvety sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan coats every noodle.
  • Bold Flavors – Garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs create a symphony of taste.
  • Quick & Impressive – Ready in 30 minutes, yet tastes like you slaved over it for hours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

(Serves 4, but good luck not going back for seconds.)

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
  • 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta (or whatever shape makes you happy)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (the secret to the luscious sauce)
  • ½ cup chicken broth (for depth of flavor)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan (plus extra for sprinkling)
  • ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (the sweet-tart MVP)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced (because more garlic = more love)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
  • Salt & black pepper (to taste)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking the chicken)
  • Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, because we eat with our eyes first)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta al dente (check the package timing, but usually 1 minute less than recommended).
  • Pro Tip: Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining—it’s liquid gold for adjusting sauce consistency later.

2. Sear the Chicken

  • Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
  • Remove, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.

3. Make the Sauce

  • In the same skillet, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for 30 seconds (don’t let it burn!).
  • Pour in chicken broth to deglaze, scraping up those tasty browned bits.
  • Add heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan, stirring until the cheese melts.
  • Let simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Bring It All Together

  • Toss in the cooked pasta and chicken, coating everything in that luxurious sauce.
  • If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning—maybe more salt, pepper, or Parmesan? Always more Parmesan.

5. Serve & Impress

  • Plate with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and extra Parmesan.
  • Pair with garlic bread and a crisp white wine (Pinot Grigio works wonders).

Pro Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta

  • Don’t overcook the chicken—dry chicken is a love killer. Use a meat thermometer!
  • Sun-dried tomatoes in oil add extra richness, but drain excess oil to avoid greasiness.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded (which has anti-caking agents).
  • Leftovers? Reheat gently with a splash of cream to revive the sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Creamy, savory, and just a little bit decadent, it’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary night into something special. Whether you’re trying to impress someone or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers every time.

Now go forth, cook with confidence, and maybe keep an eye out for any sudden proposals. 😉

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