Marry Me Chicken Pasta – Creamy, Cheesy & Irresistibly Flavorful

There’s a reason this dish is called Marry Me Chicken Pasta. One bite of the creamy, cheesy, sun-dried tomato–studded sauce wrapped around tender chicken and pasta, and you’ll understand why it has a reputation for inspiring serious devotion. Rich, savory, and indulgent without being overwhelming, this recipe tastes like it came straight from a cozy Italian bistro.

This pasta version takes the viral “Marry Me Chicken” concept and turns it into a full, satisfying meal. The sauce is velvety and deeply flavorful, balanced by garlic, parmesan, and a subtle kick of red pepper flakes. Sun-dried tomatoes add sweetness and tang, while fresh basil finishes everything with brightness.

Whether you’re cooking for date night, family dinner, or simply craving something comforting and luxurious, this marry me chicken pasta is guaranteed to impress.


Why This Recipe Is So Addictive

This dish works because it layers flavor thoughtfully. Chicken is seasoned and seared until golden, creating a savory base. Butter, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes bloom together, releasing deep, aromatic flavor. Cream and broth form a silky sauce that’s rich but not heavy, while parmesan adds nutty depth and body.

Unlike many cream sauces, this one clings beautifully to pasta without becoming thick or gluey — every bite is smooth, balanced, and crave-worthy.


Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¾ cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 ¼ cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta in salted water according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear until golden and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits. Simmer 2–3 minutes.
  6. Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and red pepper flakes.
  7. Gradually add parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy.
  8. Return chicken to the skillet, then add cooked pasta. Toss to coat, adding pasta water as needed.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan before serving.

The Secret to the Signature “Marry Me” Sauce

The balance of cream, broth, and parmesan is key. Chicken broth prevents the sauce from becoming overly rich, while parmesan thickens naturally without flour. Adding cheese off direct heat ensures a smooth, glossy texture instead of graininess.

Sun-dried tomatoes are essential — they add depth and a slightly sweet acidity that keeps the dish from feeling flat.


Variations & Add-Ins

  • Spinach Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Stir in fresh spinach until wilted
  • Mushroom Version: Sauté mushrooms with the chicken
  • Extra Cheesy: Add mozzarella or fontina
  • Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add chili oil
  • Lighter Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream

What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta

  • Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
  • Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
  • Roasted broccoli or asparagus
  • Sparkling water or crisp white wine

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid high heat to prevent separation.

Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce.


Why Everyone Falls in Love with This Dish

Kids love the creamy pasta. Adults love the bold flavor and restaurant-style feel. It’s indulgent, comforting, and special enough for celebrations — yet easy enough for a weeknight.


Creamy Comfort That Wins Hearts

Marry Me Chicken Pasta isn’t just a trend — it’s a keeper. Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, this is the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Creamy, cheesy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes and irresistible flavor.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 plates
Course: Dinner, Main
Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Calories: 640

Ingredients
  

Pasta Dish
  • 12 oz pasta
  • 1 lb chicken breast sliced
  • 1.25 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup parmesan cheese freshly grated

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Pasta pot
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta and reserve pasta water.
  2. Sear seasoned chicken until golden.
  3. Prepare creamy sun-dried tomato sauce.
  4. Combine pasta, chicken, and sauce.

Notes

Add pasta water as needed for a silky sauce.