Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta
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Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep the chicken juicy by cooking until just done.
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Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese won’t melt as nicely into your sauce.
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Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add more pasta water a little at a time.
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Spice It Up: Add more crushed red pepper if you like a spicy kick.
Variations and Add-Ins
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Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the sauce.
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Protein: Try shrimp or turkey breast instead of chicken for a twist.
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Lighter Version: Use half & half or a mix of milk and cornstarch to lighten the sauce.
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Low Carb Option: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
FAQs About Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Why is it called "Marry Me Chicken Pasta"?
Because it’s said that the creamy, flavorful sauce is so good it might just inspire a marriage proposal! Whether or not you believe the legend, one bite and you’ll understand the hype.
Can I make it ahead?
You can prepare chicken & sauce ahead . Reheat gently and toss freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve for best texture and flavor.
What pasta shape works best?
Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni are perfect because they hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream and use vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason chicken pasta is so popular. It’s comforting, creamy, and brimming with savory, mouthwatering flavors that truly feel special without requiring complicated techniques or hours in the kitchen. This marry me chicken recipe with pasta is sure to become one of your favorite go-to chicken pasta recipes whenever you want to treat yourself — or someone you love — to a meal worth remembering.
Go ahead, whip it up tonight and see if anyone pops the question
- Cook the Pasta
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
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Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water for later use, then drain and set aside.
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- Season and Sear the Chicken
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Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil.
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Add the chicken breasts and sear for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
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Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to rest.
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- Prepare the Creamy Sauce
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In the same skillet (do not clean it—those brown bits are flavor gold!), add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir for another minute.
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Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
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Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
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Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
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- Combine Everything
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Slice the cooked chicken into strips.
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Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.
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Nestle the chicken strips on top and let everything warm through for a minute or two.
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- Serve and Garnish
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Plate the pasta and chicken.
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Sprinkle extra parmesan cheese and fresh basil over the top.
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Serve immediately and enjoy the magic.
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This hearty marry me chicken pasta recipe offers a rich source of protein and healthy fats, perfect for a satisfying meal. Although indulgent with cream and cheese, you can enjoy it guilt-free in moderation , or tweak it with lighter cream options if preferred.
- Calories:680 kcal
- Protein:38 g
- Carbohydrates :45 g
- Fat :38 g
- Saturated Fat :20 g
- Cholesterol :180 mg
- Sodium :780 mg
- Sugar :6 g
- Fiber :3 g
If you’re looking for a dish so delicious it might just inspire a proposal, you have to try Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Creamy, savory, and packed with flavor, this pasta recipe blends tender chicken with sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan, garlic, and luscious cream sauce over perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, family dinner, or simply treating yourself, this dish is bound to impress.
