Introduction
Marry Me Chicken Recipe with Pasta is more than just a dish—it’s a love story in the making. With its creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness, this meal is said to be so irresistible that it could prompt a marriage proposal after just one bite. Whether or not that’s true, one thing is certain: this dish is an absolute winner for a romantic dinner, family gathering, or cozy night in.
What makes this recipe even better? It’s paired with perfectly cooked pasta, soaking up every drop of the rich Parmesan cream sauce infused with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil. The best part? You only need three simple steps to bring this dish to life.
What You’ll Learn in This Guide:
✔ How to make Marry Me Chicken with Pasta in just three easy steps.
✔ The best ingredients and substitutions to customize the dish.
✔ Tips and tricks for achieving the perfect creamy texture.
✔ Common mistakes to avoid for a flawless result.
Let’s dive in and create a meal that’s sure to impress!
Table of Contents
What Is Marry Me Chicken?
A Romantic, Flavor-Packed Dish
This recipe is believed to have originated in Southern kitchens, gaining popularity as one of the most beloved creamy chicken dishes. The name comes from its irresistible taste, often leading to comments like, “If you make this for someone, they’ll want to marry you!”
What makes it stand out?
✔ Juicy pan-seared chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection.
✔ A rich, velvety sauce made from cream, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes.
✔ Fresh basil and garlic adding a depth of flavor that’s simply unforgettable.
Pair it with pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables, and you have a meal worthy of any occasion!
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken with Pasta
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 2 large | Tender, juicy protein |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Enhances flavor |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For searing the chicken |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | Adds bold flavor |
| Sun-dried tomatoes | ½ cup | Slightly sweet & tangy taste |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Creates a rich, creamy sauce |
| Chicken broth | ½ cup | Adds depth to the sauce |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | ½ cup | Enhances creaminess |
| Red pepper flakes | ½ tsp | Adds a subtle kick |
| Fresh basil | ¼ cup | Provides freshness |
| Pasta (fettuccine or penne) | 8 oz | The perfect base for the sauce |
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
✅ For a lighter version: Use half-and-half or coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
✅ For extra protein: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or shrimp.
✅ For a low-carb option: Serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken with Pasta in 3 Easy Steps
Step 1 – Sear the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
✅ Pro Tip: Avoid overcooking—the chicken will finish cooking in the sauce.
Step 2 – Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Sprinkle in red pepper flakes and Parmesan cheese, letting the sauce thicken.
✅ Pro Tip: Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes to develop rich, deep flavors.
Step 3 – Combine and Serve
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, allowing it to soak up the flavors.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions and drain.
- Toss pasta with the creamy sauce, ensuring every strand is coated.
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan before serving.
✅ Pro Tip: Let the dish rest for a minute to enhance the flavors before serving.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Marry Me Chicken
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce |
| Roasted Vegetables | Adds a healthy, crunchy contrast |
| Caesar Salad | A crisp, refreshing side |
| Mashed Potatoes | A great alternative to pasta |
Perfect Beverage Pairings
🍷 Wine Pairing: A Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce.
🥤 Non-Alcoholic Option: Lemon-infused sparkling water enhances the flavors.
Tips for the Perfect Marry Me Chicken Recipe
✅ Use fresh basil for an extra burst of freshness.
✅ Grate your own Parmesan—pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
✅ Simmer the sauce on low heat to prevent curdling.
✅ Don’t skip the red pepper flakes—they balance the richness of the dish.
✅ Use reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce if needed.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
1. Sauce Is Too Thick or Too Thin
❌ Mistake: Using too much or too little liquid.
✅ Fix: Adjust with extra chicken broth or pasta water as needed.
2. Chicken Turns Out Dry
❌ Mistake: Overcooking the chicken.
✅ Fix: Sear for 4-5 minutes per side, then let it finish in the sauce.
3. Cheese Doesn’t Melt Smoothly
❌ Mistake: Using pre-shredded Parmesan.
✅ Fix: Always use freshly grated cheese for a creamy consistency.
FAQs – Marry Me Chicken Recipe with Pasta
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How Do I Reheat It Without Drying Out the Chicken?
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth.
What’s the Best Pasta for This Dish?
Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs add extra juiciness.
Conclusion
This Marry Me Chicken recipe with pasta is a dish that wins hearts with every bite. With its perfectly cooked chicken, rich Parmesan cream sauce, and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, it’s easy to see why this dish has become a dinner-time favorite.
🔥 Now it’s your turn! Try this recipe and let us know in the comments—what’s your favorite way to serve it? 🍽️✨