Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken rich Parmesan and tangy sun-dried tomatoes in a sauce that clings to every bite of pasta making it a comforting and memorable meal It transforms a beloved skillet chicken into a full dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy date night

I first made this during a busy week and was amazed how it felt special yet was so quick to pull together now it is a favorite in our rotation

Ingredients

• 8 ounces dried pasta: such as penne rigatoni or fettuccine which holds the sauce well
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: for sautéing adding richness and depth
• ½ cup finely chopped onion: to build a sweet aromatic base
• 3 to 4 cloves garlic: minced for a punch of flavor that complements the chicken
• 1 tablespoon butter: which adds creaminess and helps cook the chicken
• 1 pound chicken breasts: cut into bite-sized pieces for quick even cooking
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: to bring traditional herbal notes
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: which adds subtle smokiness
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: for gentle heat that can be adjusted to taste
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: to boost the garlic flavor throughout
• ½ teaspoon salt: essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: freshly ground for a little bite
• 1 cup heavy cream: or half and half for a lighter sauce creamy and luscious
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: which melts into the sauce adding savory depth
• ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes: bringing bursts of sweet tanginess
• Fresh basil leaves: for garnish offering a fresh bright finish

Step by Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Boil pasta in salted water following package directions until just tender al dente Drain and set aside to keep warm

Sauté the Aromatics:

Warm olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet Add onions and garlic Cook for two to three minutes stirring until fragrant and onions soften without browning

Cook the Chicken:

Add butter to the pan then the chicken pieces Season with Italian seasoning smoked paprika red pepper flakes garlic powder salt and pepper Cook stirring occasionally about six to eight minutes until chicken is golden and cooked through

Make the Sauce:

Pour in heavy cream Stir in grated Parmesan Allow the sauce to simmer gently for three to four minutes stirring occasionally so it thickens slightly and becomes silky

Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:

Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes ensuring their flavor is evenly spread throughout the sauce

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Return the cooked pasta to the skillet Toss well so every piece is coated in the creamy sauce

Adjust and Garnish:

Taste and add more Parmesan or red pepper flakes as desired Finish with fresh basil leaves for color and fragrance

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One of my favorite parts is the smoky paprika which gives it just the right depth I remember making this for a date night and how the aroma filled the kitchen making it feel extra special

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat gently adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce so it does not dry out

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter sauce use half and half instead of heavy cream You can replace chicken with shrimp or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian twist Use nutritional yeast and vegan cheese to make it dairy free

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to complete the meal A glass of chilled white wine pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce

Cultural Context

This dish blends Italian-American comfort with a modern twist originally inspired by a popular skillet chicken recipe The playful name reflects its irresistibility and makes it a fun meal to share

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Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use other pasta types?

Yes, penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine all work well to hold the creamy sauce.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half can be used for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich and creamy.

→ How spicy is this dish?

The red pepper flakes add a mild heat that can be adjusted to taste or omitted for a milder flavor.

→ Can I swap chicken for other proteins?

Shrimp is a great alternative, and vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can also be added for variety.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container and reheat gently to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.