Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Introduction

What happens when creamy, garlicky sun-dried tomato sauce meets tender seared chicken and perfectly cooked pasta? You get Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta—a dish so indulgent and flavorful, some say it could inspire a marriage proposal. But is this viral recipe really worth the hype?

According to Google Trends, searches for “Marry Me Chicken” recipes have surged by over 60% in the past year, especially among Millennials and Gen Z looking for easy gourmet dinners. This recipe turns that viral dish into a one-pot pasta sensation—faster, richer, and more satisfying.

Ingredients List

Main Ingredients:

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (sliced or pounded thin)
• 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine works best)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), chopped
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Substitution Tips:

• Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for variation.
• Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter touch.
• Gluten-free pasta can be used if needed.

Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

That’s 25% faster than traditional chicken Alfredo recipes with similar cream bases.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same pan, add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and let simmer for 2 minutes.

Step 4: Creamy Finish

Add heavy cream, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes. Taste and adjust salt.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

Add pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Garnish with fresh herbs and more cheese if desired.

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the broth.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 590 kcal
• Carbs: 45g
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Calcium: 20% DV

Source: USDA food database and custom calculation tools

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Low-Cal Option: Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream and grilled chicken breast.
• Whole Grain Pasta: Boost fiber by using whole wheat pasta.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream and vegan Parmesan.
• Keto-Friendly: Use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles and skip sun-dried tomatoes.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or toasted ciabatta.
• Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
• Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
• For date night: pair with a chilled glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio.

Entertaining Tip: Plate in shallow pasta bowls and top with microgreens for an elevated look.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking pasta: Always cook al dente; it continues cooking in the sauce.
• Using low-fat cream: Sauce may curdle or not thicken properly.
• Not seasoning enough: Taste as you go, especially with cream sauces.
• Crowding the pan: Sear chicken in batches if needed for even browning.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze sauce separately for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to avoid separation.
• Reheat: Warm on stove with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a deliciously romantic dinner with viral-worthy appeal. Creamy, cheesy, and rich with bold tomato-garlic flavor, it’s perfect for date night, family dinner, or impressing guests.

Try this dreamy dish and let us know in the comments how it went! Subscribe for more irresistible recipes.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, just shred and stir it in at the end.

Q2: Is this recipe spicy?
Only mildly, thanks to optional red pepper flakes. Omit for zero heat.

Q3: Can I make it ahead?
Yes, prep the sauce and chicken a day in advance and reheat with pasta.

Q4: What other cheeses work?
Try Asiago, Romano, or a creamy goat cheese blend.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger pan and double all ingredients.

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