I first stumbled across the idea of “Marry Me Chicken” when a friend raved about a dish that supposedly won over her now-fiancé with its creamy, flavorful sauce and tender chicken.
Naturally, I had to give it a try, and let me tell you, combining that rich, garlicky, sun-dried tomato goodness with pasta takes it to a whole new level.
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta has become my go-to for cozy dinners at home, date nights, or when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
It’s indulgent yet simple, with a sauce that clings to every strand of pasta and a flavor that feels like a warm hug.
I love how versatile it is—whether I’m cooking for my family or sneaking in a quiet solo meal, it always hits the spot.
Let’s dive into why this dish is bound to become a staple in your kitchen too.
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Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the kind of dish that makes you look like a pro in the kitchen without breaking a sweat. The creamy sauce, packed with sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan, and a hint of spice, pairs perfectly with juicy chicken and your favorite pasta.
It’s quick enough for a weeknight but feels special enough for a weekend gathering. Plus, it’s customizable—swap ingredients or tweak the spice to make it your own. Here’s why it’s a winner:
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 40 minutes.
- Bursting with bold flavors from garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs.
- Perfect balance of creamy and savory with a touch of heat.
- Versatile for family dinners, date nights, or meal prep.
- Easy to adapt for dietary needs like gluten-free or low-carb.
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Ingredients For Marry Me Chicken Pasta
You’ll need a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh items to make this Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Here’s the lineup:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz (340g) rigatoni pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
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Kitchen Equipment Needed
Gather these tools to make your cooking experience smooth and stress-free. Most are likely already in your kitchen:
- Large skillet
- Medium pot for boiling pasta
- Colander
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Tongs
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to bring this Marry Me Chicken Pasta to life, broken down into clear, beginner-friendly steps. Take your time, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish in no time.
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, get everything ready to make the process seamless.
Rinse the spinach and pat it dry with a paper towel. Mince the garlic finely or use a garlic press for speed.
Chop the sun-dried tomatoes into small pieces if they’re not pre-chopped.
Slice the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized strips or cubes, about 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick, and season them lightly with salt and black pepper.
Having everything prepped saves you from scrambling mid-cook.
2. Cook the Pasta
Fill a medium pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil over high heat.
Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually 10-12 minutes, until al dente.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
If you’re worried about the pasta sticking together, toss it with a tiny drizzle of olive oil.
3. Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
Add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed.
Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Use tongs to flip the pieces for even cooking. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
4. Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic.
Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon to prevent burning.
Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute to release their flavor.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, if using, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
5. Add Cheese and Spinach
Gradually stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a smooth, creamy texture.
Add the fresh spinach in handfuls, stirring until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes.
Taste the sauce and adjust with salt and black pepper as needed.
If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
6. Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with any juices on the plate, and stir to coat it in the sauce.
Add the cooked rigatoni pasta and gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
Let it cook for 1-2 minutes over low heat to let the flavors meld. If the dish feels too dry, add another splash of chicken broth or heavy cream.
7. Serve and Garnish
Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large platter. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, either torn or chopped, for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve immediately while it’s warm, and enjoy the compliments that are sure to follow!
Read Also: Marry Me Chicken Casserole Recipe
Tips for Success
To make sure your Marry Me Chicken Pasta turns out perfect every time, keep these pointers in mind:
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; pre-minced can taste flat.
- Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente holds up better in the sauce.
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to get a nice golden sear.
- Taste the sauce before adding the pasta to adjust seasoning.
- If the sauce thickens too much, thin it with a bit of pasta water or chicken broth.
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Serving Suggestions
This dish is a showstopper on its own, but pairing it with the right sides or drinks elevates the whole experience. It’s rich and creamy, so I like to balance it with something fresh or crisp. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:
- Serve with a side of Grilled Vegetable Skewers for a fresh, smoky contrast.
- Pair with a light Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint to cut through the richness.
- Add a slice of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Pour a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
- Finish with a light dessert like Healthy Tiramisu for a sweet touch.
Read Also: Chicken Alfredo Recipe with Jar Sauce
Variations to Try
This recipe is super flexible, so you can tweak it to suit your tastes or what’s in your pantry. Here are some fun twists:
- Swap rigatoni pasta for penne, fettuccine, or gluten-free pasta.
- Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein.
- Add mushrooms or roasted red peppers for extra veggies.
- Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Kick up the heat with extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
Read Also: Creamy Avocado Pasta Recipe
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers properly to enjoy this dish later. Here’s how:
- Let the pasta cool to room temperature before storing.
- Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of heavy cream or chicken broth.
- Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway, until heated through.
- Avoid freezing, as the creamy sauce may separate.
Read Also: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe
Nutritional Facts
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 35g (Saturated: 18g)
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
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Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with ingredients that offer some great health perks. From protein to vitamins, here’s what makes this dish a nutritious choice:
- Chicken: High in lean protein, supports muscle growth and repair.
- Spinach: Rich in iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants for heart and bone health.
- Garlic: Boosts immunity and may reduce inflammation.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants for skin and immune support.
- Olive oil: Contains healthy fats that promote heart health.
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FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and use a dairy-free parmesan substitute. The sauce will still be creamy, though the flavor may be slightly different with a hint of coconut if you use that option.
2. What pasta works best for this dish?
Rigatoni is great because its ridges hold the sauce well, but you can use any short pasta like penne or fusilli, or even long pasta like fettuccine. Gluten-free pasta works too if you need a dietary swap.
3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicier and add great flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a minute or two longer to cook through.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne, or even diced fresh chili peppers when sautéing the garlic. Taste as you go to avoid overdoing it.
5. Can I prep this dish ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken and pasta ahead, but make the sauce fresh for the best texture. Store the components separately in the fridge and combine when ready to serve, reheating gently with extra chicken broth.
Read Also: 10 Delicious Mexican Chicken Salad Recipe
Final Thoughts
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s a love letter to comfort food that’s easy to whip up and impossible to resist. I’ve made it for weeknight dinners when I’m craving something cozy, and for friends who can’t stop raving about the creamy, flavorful sauce.
It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a treat but doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the variations, I hope this dish brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. Grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to fall in love with every bite.
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