Key Takeaways:
- Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish made with chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich Parmesan sauce.
- The name comes from its irresistible taste—some say it’s “so good it could lead to a marriage proposal.”
- Best served with fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni to hold the sauce well.
- Can be made with Alfredo sauce, milk instead of heavy cream, or even dairy-free alternatives.
- Store leftovers for up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of milk or cream.
- Pair with garlic bread, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish made with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a Parmesan cheese sauce. This easy one-pan meal is perfect for date nights, family dinners, or whenever you want a comforting and delicious pasta dish at home. Some even say it’s so good it could lead to a marriage proposal—hence the name
Why is it Called “Marry Me Chicken Pasta”?
There are many theories about the name, but here are the most popular ones:
- The rich, creamy sauce makes it an instant favorite.
- The blend of flavors—garlic, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes—creates an irresistible taste.
- It has become viral on social media, with many home cooks sharing their own versions.
- Some claim that after making this dish for their significant other, they received a marriage proposal—hence the name!
- The dish is comforting and indulgent, making it a perfect meal to impress someone special.
- The combination of romantic, restaurant-quality flavors makes it ideal for date nights, reinforcing its romantic appeal.
- Some believe the name originated from chefs or food bloggers who wanted to give it a memorable, playful title.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is made with simple pantry staples that create a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish. Below is a breakdown of the essential ingredients, why they’re important, and possible substitutions.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into cutlets)
- 10 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor:
- Spinach (1 cup, optional)
- Wilts perfectly in the warm sauce, adding nutrients and color.
- Mushrooms (½ cup, sliced, optional)
- Provides an earthy, umami depth to the dish.
- Bacon (3 strips, cooked and crumbled, optional)
- Adds a smoky, salty kick for even more indulgence.
- Fresh Basil (for garnish, optional)
- Enhances the dish with a fresh, aromatic touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Add pasta and cook 1-2 minutes less than package instructions (it will finish cooking in the sauce).
- Drain and set aside.
2. Season and Sear the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove chicken and let it rest.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same pan, add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring until combined.
- Add Parmesan cheese slowly, stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
4. Combine Everything Together
- Slice the chicken into strips and return to the pan.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce coats the pasta.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
- Serve hot with garlic bread or a fresh salad.
Best Pasta Choices for Marry Me Chicken
| Pasta Type | Why It’s a Good Choice |
|---|---|
| Fettuccine | Holds thick sauce well |
| Penne | Catches sauce in ridges |
| Rigatoni | Perfect for creamy dishes |
| Linguine | Works well with creamy sauces |
FAQs
Can I Use Alfredo Sauce Instead?
Yes! Store-bought Alfredo sauce can replace the homemade Parmesan sauce.
How Do I Thicken the Sauce?
- Simmer longer to reduce excess liquid.
- Add more Parmesan cheese.
- Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water).
Can I Make It Without Heavy Cream?
Yes! Use:
- Whole milk + 1 tbsp butter
- Coconut milk for a dairy-free option
- Greek yogurt for a tangy twist
What Sides Go Well With Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
- Garlic bread
- Roasted asparagus
- Caesar salad
- Sauteed spinach
Can I Store and Reheat This Dish?
- Keep in a sealed container for up to three days.
- Reheat in a pan with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta Healthy?
This dish is rich in protein and calcium, but also high in fat due to the cream and cheese. You can make it lighter by:
- Using whole wheat pasta.
- Swapping heavy cream for Greek yogurt or milk.
- Adding more veggies like spinach or mushrooms.
Final Thoughts
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a special date night or just want a comforting meal, this recipe will never disappoint. Try it today and see why it’s so good, it might just lead to a proposal!