What happens when you combine tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, a touch of cream, and a hint of heat with perfectly cooked pasta? You get Marry Me Pasta, a creamy, dreamy dish that has become a viral sensation for good reason. With its rich, velvety sauce and bold flavors, Marry Me Pasta is the type Main Course. If you’re looking for a delicious way to win hearts at the dinner table, this recipe guarantees a happy ending every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Marry Me Pasta is all about simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients working together in harmony. Each addition brings something unique, from the creamy texture to the vibrant color and the satisfying bite. Here’s what you’ll need for your best-ever Marry Me Pasta:

12 ounces penne pasta: A sturdy pasta shape that holds the creamy sauce beautifully and gives this dish its signature heartiness.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken for depth of flavor.
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Lean protein that turns tender and soaks up all the sauce.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning each layer and brightening all the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just enough warmth to balance the creamy notes.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Dried herbs that bring a classic Mediterranean touch with every bite.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Aromatic base that infuses the whole sauce with irresistible flavor.
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick that keeps each forkful lively.
1/2 cup chicken broth: De-glazes the pan and adds savory depth to the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream: Provides luxurious texture and that signature velvety finish.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for nutty, salty goodness and thickness.
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Tangy-sweet bursts that contrast the creamy base and add beautiful color.
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped: The bright, herbal freshness that crowns each serving of Marry Me Pasta.

How to Make Marry Me Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in your penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. This gives you the perfect texture that won’t get mushy when tossed in the luscious sauce. Drain the pasta well and set it aside, reserving a bit of the cooking water in case you want to loosen up the sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil shimmers, season your chicken pieces generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add them to the hot pan and let them brown on all sides, cooking for 5 to 6 minutes until they’re golden and just cooked through. Once ready, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm—you’re about to build layers of flavor in the same pan.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

With your skillet still hot, toss in the minced garlic and (if you like a little heat) the crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté everything for about 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. This foundational step makes the whole kitchen smell as heavenly as the dish will taste!

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce

Pour the chicken broth into your fragrant skillet, using your spoon to scrape up every little bit of browned goodness stuck to the bottom—that’s pure flavor! Stir in the heavy cream, then the Parmesan cheese and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Keep stirring at a gentle simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly and the cheese melt to a dreamy consistency.

Step 5: Marry It All Together

Return the sautéed chicken pieces to the skillet, and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything gently, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated with that irresistible, golden sauce. This is where Marry Me Pasta truly earns its name: the flavors unite and every strand of pasta and chunk of chicken becomes something better than before.

Step 6: The Basil Finish

Turn off the heat and sprinkle the fresh chopped basil over the top. Gently fold it into the pasta to release those vibrant aromas. Serve immediately for the full experience—your guests won’t be able to resist the invitation.

How to Serve Marry Me Pasta

Garnishes

To really make your Marry Me Pasta shine, finish it off with a shower of extra Parmesan cheese, a scattering of fresh basil leaves, and a crack of black pepper. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of good olive oil and a pinch of red pepper flakes on top adds another layer of flavor and color.

Side Dishes

This pasta is rich and satisfying, but it loves good company. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette, or some warm, crusty bread for mopping up every last bit of sauce. Steamed asparagus or broccolini also work beautifully, offering a crisp, vibrant contrast to the creamy pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special night, pile the Marry Me Pasta into individual bowls and top with a sprig of basil and a crumble of extra Parmesan. You can even serve it in a large family-style platter for everyone to help themselves—watch as everyone swoops in for seconds. If you’re entertaining, mini portions in ramekins make a memorable appetizer course or a part of an elegant buffet.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store Marry Me Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken as it chills, but a splash of chicken broth or a bit of cream when reheating brings it right back to perfection.

Freezing

To freeze, transfer cooled Marry Me Pasta to a freezer-safe container, leaving a little room at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results, and be prepared to add a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.

Reheating

For the creamiest reheating, warm Marry Me Pasta gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring in a bit of extra cream, milk, or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating works too—just cover the bowl and stir halfway through to ensure even heating. No matter your method, keep the heat gentle to avoid breaking the luxurious sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for Marry Me Pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is classic for this recipe, you can swap in shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti. The key is using a pasta with enough surface area to hold onto the rich, creamy sauce.

Can I make Marry Me Pasta vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or even canned white beans for a hearty, delicious meat-free version. Simply use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth, and your vegetarian guests will be just as delighted.

Is there a lighter way to make the creamy sauce?

For a lighter Marry Me Pasta, use half-and-half or even whole milk in place of heavy cream. The sauce will be slightly less thick, but you’ll still get that lovely, comforting flavor and silkiness.

Are sun-dried tomatoes necessary?

Sun-dried tomatoes bring a tangy depth and pop of color, but you can substitute with roasted cherry tomatoes or even a scoop of tomato paste for a different twist. Adjust the seasoning to taste, and the dish will still be crave-worthy.

Can I use shrimp instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Substitute peeled and deveined shrimp for the chicken, and sauté them just until pink and firm—usually 2 to 3 minutes. The briny sweetness of shrimp pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce for a seafood-inspired Marry Me Pasta.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing, cozy meal that’s bursting with flavor and personality, Marry Me Pasta is an absolute must-try. There’s a reason so many people have fallen in love with this dish, and once you share it at your own table, you’ll understand why! Don’t wait for a special occasion—invite warmth and a bit of magic into any night with this unforgettable pasta.

Marry Me Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 12 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Marry Me Pasta is a deliciously creamy and flavorful pasta dish that will win over anyone’s heart. Tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce come together to create a dish that is perfect for a romantic dinner or any special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 ounces penne pasta

Chicken:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Sauce:

3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet, season chicken, and sauté until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken.
Make Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes, then add chicken broth, cream, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes. Simmer until thickened.
Combine: Return chicken to the skillet, add pasta, and toss until coated in the sauce.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil before serving.