Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

I’m not gonna lie, the first time I made this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake, I was skeptical about the name. I mean, a dish so good it’ll make someone propose? That’s a tall order! But after one bite of this creamy, cheesy, sun-dried tomato-packed goodness, I got it. 

This recipe is pure comfort food with a touch of elegance, blending tender chicken, rich cream, and perfectly cooked pasta in a way that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to linger at the table, savoring every bite and maybe even sneaking seconds. 

I love making this for cozy nights in or when I want to impress someone without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into why this dish is a total crowd-pleaser and how you can whip it up yourself.

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Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort dish that’s surprisingly easy to pull off, even on a busy weeknight. It’s got everything you want in a meal: creamy, cheesy, savory, and just a little fancy with those sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. 

It’s versatile enough for a family dinner or a special date night, and the leftovers (if you have any!) taste just as good the next day. Here’s why it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen:

  • Rich and Flavorful: The creamy sauce with Parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes is a flavor explosion.
  • Easy to Make: Simple steps and common ingredients make it beginner-friendly.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone from kids to picky eaters loves this dish.
  • Customizable: Easily tweak it to suit dietary needs or preferences.
  • Perfect for Leftovers: It reheats beautifully for lunch or dinner the next day.

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Ingredients For Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake

You’ll need a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients to make this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake. Here’s the lineup:

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

This recipe comes together with basic kitchen tools you likely already have. Here’s what you’ll need:

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make this dreamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake. I’ve broken it down into detailed steps so you can follow along easily, even if you’re new to cooking.

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot by the time you’re ready to bake. If your oven takes a while to heat up, do this first so you’re not waiting later.

2. Cook the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add 12 oz (340 g) of rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions, but stop about 1-2 minutes shy of al dente (it’ll finish cooking in the oven). 

Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Pro tip: Rinse the pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process if you’re not using it right away.

3. Season and Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season 1 lb (450 g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces) with 1 tsp (5 g) salt, 1/2 tsp (2.5 g) black pepper, 1 tsp (5 g) garlic powder, and 1 tsp (5 g) Italian seasoning. 

Heat 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. 

Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). 

Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.

4. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Toss in 1 finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. 

Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1/2 tsp (2.5 g) red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. 

Be careful not to burn the garlic—it can turn bitter.

5. Make the Creamy Sauce

Add 1/2 cup (120 g) chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, and 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth to the skillet. 

Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (that’s where the flavor lives!). 

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. 

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or black pepper if needed.

6. Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni pasta, the cooked chicken, and the creamy sauce. 

Add 1/4 cup (10 g) chopped fresh basil and 1 cup (150 g) halved cherry tomatoes. 

Gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. The fresh basil and tomatoes add a bright, summery vibe to the dish.

7. Assemble and Bake

Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13 baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. 

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. 

Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. 

If you want an extra crispy top, switch to the broiler for the last 2 minutes, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.

8. Garnish and Serve

Remove the dish from the oven using oven mitts. Let it cool for 5 minutes to set, then sprinkle with a little more fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. 

Serve it hot, scooping generous portions onto plates.

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Tips for Success

To make sure your Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake turns out perfect every time, here are some tips I’ve learned from making it a bunch:

  • Don’t overcook the pasta in the first step—it’ll soften more in the oven.
  • Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor; pre-grated stuff can be grainy.
  • If you’re sensitive to spice, skip the red pepper flakes.
  • Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to help the sauce set.
  • Double the recipe and freeze one for an easy meal later.

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Serving Suggestions

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake is a showstopper on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the whole meal. It’s rich and hearty, so I like to balance it with something fresh or crunchy. Here are some ideas to round out your dinner:

  • A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.
  • Garlic bread for soaking up the creamy sauce.
  • Roasted asparagus or broccoli for a veggie boost.
  • A glass of chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc.
  • For dessert, try a light fruit chaat to cleanse the palate.

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Variations to Try

This recipe is super versatile, so you can mix it up to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun twists:

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Storage and Reheating

Leftovers of this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake are just as delicious. Here’s how to store and reheat:

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.

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Nutritional Facts

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Fat: 32 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 780 mg

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Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake isn’t just delicious—it’s got some nutritious ingredients too. While it’s a comfort food dish, the chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil bring some health perks to the table. Here’s a look at what makes them great:

  • Chicken: Packed with lean protein to support muscle health.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which may support heart health.
  • Basil: Contains anti-inflammatory compounds and vitamins like K.
  • Garlic: May boost immunity and heart health.
  • Olive Oil: A healthy fat with anti-inflammatory properties.

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FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding 5-10 extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle works great. Just make sure to cook it slightly under al dente to avoid mushiness after baking.

3. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well! Assemble the dish, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as directed.

4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. The flavor will change slightly, but it’ll still be creamy and delicious.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the sauce for extra heat.

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Final Thoughts

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake is one of those recipes that feels like a treat but is simple enough to whip up any night of the week. I love how it brings together creamy, cheesy goodness with the bright flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and basil. 

It’s perfect for sharing with family, friends, or that special someone you’re hoping to impress (maybe it’ll live up to its name!). I’ve made this dish countless times, and it never fails to make everyone at the table happy. 

Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out for you—I’d love to hear about your tweaks or pairings!

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