Marry Me Chicken Pasta | Creamy, Easy & Family-Friendly Dinner

If you’re like me, busy evenings call for dishes that are quick, delicious, and loved by the whole family. This Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe has become my go-to when I want to impress with minimal effort. Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor thanks to sun-dried tomatoes and Italian herbs, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.

I still remember the first time I made this—my husband asked if I’d marry him all over again. (Okay, maybe not literally, but it was close!) This recipe feels fancy but is surprisingly simple, perfect for weeknights or casual dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in about 30 minutes.
• Family-friendly: Mild yet flavorful, loved by kids and adults alike.
• One-skillet magic: Less mess, more time enjoying dinner.
• Flexible: Swap pasta types, add veggies, or spice it up.

Ingredients You Need for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

For the Chicken Pasta

• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 10 ounces penne pasta
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Pro Tip

Using sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil adds the best flavor, but you can also use dry-packed tomatoes rehydrated in warm water.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta

• Boil penne pasta according to package directions until al dente.
• Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken

• Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add chicken and cook 6–8 minutes until cooked through and lightly browned.
• Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

• In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in flour and cook 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
• Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream until smooth.
• Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens slightly.
• Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
• Season with salt and pepper as needed.

4. Combine Everything

• Return cooked chicken and drained pasta to skillet.
• Toss to coat everything evenly in sauce.
• Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan before serving.

Family-Friendly Tips to Make This Your Own

• Use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
• Add chopped spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
• Swap penne for fettuccine or rigatoni for variety.
• Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Double the recipe for leftovers or meal prep.

FAQs About Marry Me Chicken Pasta

What pasta is best for Marry Me Chicken?

Penne is classic and holds sauce well, but rigatoni or fettuccine work beautifully too.

Can I use diced tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

You can, but sun-dried tomatoes give a richer, more intense flavor.

Is this recipe good for leftovers?

Yes! It reheats well in a skillet or microwave.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

Try a crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to complement the creamy sauce.

Related Recipes to Try Next

• Check out this creamy One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice for another easy comfort dish.
• For a seafood twist, try the flavorful Marry Me Salmon.
• Love pasta? Don’t miss the lighter Healthy Tuscan Chicken Pasta.

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I’d love to hear how your Marry Me Chicken Pasta turns out! Comment below or tag @RitzyRecipes on Instagram with your photos. Cooking for family is such a joy—let’s share it together!

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