Name: Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup chicken broth; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta; 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; Fresh basil, for garnish

Hey y'all! Looking for a pasta dish that's creamy, savory, a little bit decadent, and perfect for just about any occasion? This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is seriously swoon-worthy, with juicy chicken, a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, and tender pasta all in one scrumptious dish. Whether it's date night, family dinner, or even a special celebration, this meal is guaranteed to impress. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Rich, creamy sauce loaded with flavor from sun-dried tomatoes and garlic.
Easy enough for a weeknight, special enough for celebrations.
One-pan cooking means less clean-up.
Customizable with your favorite veggies or pasta shapes.
Keeps well for leftovers—if there are any!

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), sliced into thin cutlets
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
2 tablespoon olive oil, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
8 oz penne (or your favorite pasta shape)
½ cup chopped fresh basil (plus more for serving)

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prep and Season Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and slice into thin cutlets. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining tablespoon olive oil and the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for 30 seconds, then add chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir and cook for another 1–2 minutes.

Add chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water, following package directions until al dente (about 10–11 minutes). Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain pasta.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce

To the skillet, stir in grated Parmesan cheese and dried Italian herbs. Let the sauce thicken for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently. If it gets too thick, add a splash of pasta water.

Step 6: Toss Pasta and Add Chicken

Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet. Toss until everything is well coated in the creamy sauce. Fold in chopped basil just before serving.

Notes for the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta

If you’d prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream ([source](https://www.thekitchn.com/half-and-half-vs-heavy-cream-23067623)).
For gluten-free, use your favorite GF pasta—read more about gluten-free pasta options at Cooking Light.
Let the chicken rest a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Variations

Spicy Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Veggie Lover: Stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for more color and nutrition.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and a plant-based Parmesan alternative.

Required Equipment for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Large skillet or sauté pan
Large pot for boiling pasta
Sharp knife & cutting board
Measuring cups & spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

Storage Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Freezing is not recommended, as creamy sauces may separate.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Pairings & Serving Ideas

Serve with a crisp green salad and crusty bread for a full meal.
Pair with a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon.
Finish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and more fresh basil.

Pro Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Always reserve a little pasta water—it helps make the sauce extra silky (why pasta water matters).
Don’t overcook the chicken; remove it as soon as it hits 165°F for moist, tender texture.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for richer flavor and better melt.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?: Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs work great—just adjust the cooking time as they may take slightly longer.
Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time?: You can prepare the sauce and chicken a day in advance. For best texture, cook and toss with pasta just before serving.
Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta spicy?: No, but you can spice it up with red pepper flakes to taste!

Marry Me Chicken Pasta