Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, rich, and flavorful pasta dish made with juicy chicken, tender pasta, garlic, parmesan cheese, and a delicious creamy sauce filled with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs. The funny name comes from the idea that the recipe tastes so amazing that someone might want to propose marriage after eating it! Whether that story is true or not, one thing is certain this pasta is comforting, cozy, and packed with flavor in every bite.

This recipe became popular because it is easy to make but tastes like something from a fancy restaurant. The creamy sauce wraps around the pasta perfectly, while the chicken stays juicy and tender. Even picky eaters often love this meal because it combines simple ingredients in a fun and delicious way. It is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even a relaxing weekend meal at home.
You Should Try the Marry Me Chicken Pasta
If you enjoy creamy pasta dishes, this recipe is a must-try. It comes together in about 30 to 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something homemade and comforting. The sauce is smooth and cheesy, the chicken is full of flavor, and the pasta makes the dish hearty and filling.
Another great reason to try Marry Me Chicken Pasta is that it is very easy to customize. You can add spinach, mushrooms, or even extra cheese if you like. Kids usually enjoy the creamy texture, and adults love the rich flavors from the garlic, parmesan, and Italian seasoning. It also reheats well, which means leftovers taste just as delicious the next day.
Table of Contents
Ingredients you’ll need for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Here is everything you need to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta:
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into thin pieces
- 12 ounces pasta penne or fettuccine work great
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat, then add the pasta and stir well so the noodles do not stick together while cooking. Let the pasta cook until tender according to the package instructions, then save a little pasta water before draining the pasta and setting it aside for later.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Place the sliced chicken breasts onto a plate or cutting board and season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning so every bite becomes flavorful and delicious. Gently rub the seasonings into the chicken to help the flavors stick well during cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot pan in a single layer. Cook the chicken for several minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through, then remove it from the skillet and place it onto a clean plate to rest.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic, stirring for about one minute until fragrant and lightly golden. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then slowly stir in the parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes until the sauce becomes rich, creamy, and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir it gently into the creamy sauce so the flavors blend together nicely. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything carefully until all the noodles are fully coated with the delicious parmesan sauce.

Step 6: Finish and Serve
Allow the pasta to cook together for another two to three minutes over low heat so the sauce thickens slightly and sticks perfectly to the pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra parmesan cheese before serving warm with garlic bread, salad, or roasted vegetables on the side.
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Kitchen equipment you will need :
Before you start, make sure you have these kitchen tools ready:
- Large pot
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander for draining pasta
- Cheese grater
- Tongs or serving spoon
Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Don’t Overcook the Chicken : Chicken can become dry if cooked too long, so remove it once fully cooked.
Save Pasta Water :The starchy water helps the sauce stick better to the pasta.
Use Fresh Garlic :Fresh garlic gives the best flavor compared to garlic powder.
Use Rotisserie Chicken :If you are short on time, use cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken from scratch.
What to Eat With Marry Me Chicken Pasta
I like making Marry Me Chicken Pasta when I want something creamy, comforting, and full of rich flavor. The tender chicken and pasta are coated in a smooth savory sauce that makes every bite really satisfying. It’s perfect for cozy dinners and feels a little special without being too complicated. My daughter enjoys it because the sauce is creamy and mild. At home we usually serve it with a small salad or some garlic bread on the side. It goes really well with cold lemonade, a fruit smoothie, or iced tea.

Commonly Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts ?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great substitute and often stay extra juicy and tender while cooking.
How do I store leftovers ?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta ?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months, although the creamy sauce may separate slightly when reheated.
Can I use rotisserie chicken ?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a quick and easy shortcut that saves cooking time.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Course: Dinner, Main CourseCuisine: American, ItalianDifficulty: Easy4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcal1
hour10
minutesMarry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy and comforting pasta dish made with juicy chicken, parmesan cheese, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes tossed in a rich and flavorful sauce. It is easy to make, full of delicious flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
2 large chicken breasts, sliced into thin pieces
12 ounces pasta penne or fettuccine work great
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta :Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat, then add the pasta and stir well so the noodles do not stick together while cooking. Let the pasta cook until tender according to the package instructions, then save a little pasta water before draining the pasta and setting it aside for later.
- Step 2: Season the Chicken :Place the sliced chicken breasts onto a plate or cutting board and season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning so every bite becomes flavorful and delicious. Gently rub the seasonings into the chicken to help the flavors stick well during cooking.
- Step 3: Cook the Chicken :Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot pan in a single layer. Cook the chicken for several minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through, then remove it from the skillet and place it onto a clean plate to rest.
- Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce :In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic, stirring for about one minute until fragrant and lightly golden. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then slowly stir in the parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes until the sauce becomes rich, creamy, and smooth.
- Step 5: Combine Everything :Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir it gently into the creamy sauce so the flavors blend together nicely. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything carefully until all the noodles are fully coated with the delicious parmesan sauce.
- Step 6: Finish and Serve :Allow the pasta to cook together for another two to three minutes over low heat so the sauce thickens slightly and sticks perfectly to the pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra parmesan cheese before serving warm with garlic bread, salad, or roasted vegetables on the side.
Notes
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta :Cook the pasta until just tender so it stays firm after mixing with the sauce.
- Let the Chicken Rest :Allowing the chicken to rest keeps it juicy and tender inside.
- Cook Garlic Gently :Garlic burns quickly, so cook it over medium heat for the best flavor.
- Stir Cheese Slowly :Adding parmesan little by little helps prevent lumps in the sauce.








