A warm, inviting kitchen filled with the aroma of garlic and herbs creates an unforgettable ambiance, especially when you’re cooking something special like pasta. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious dish known as Marry Me Chicken Pasta that promises to impress anyone at your dinner table. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta ensures that it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Whether it’s date night or a family gathering, this dish suits any occasion. For busy cooks, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them, making the cooking process even faster.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the tender pasta, creating a delightful comfort food experience.
- It cooks in just 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
- The seared chicken adds rich flavor and satisfying protein to the dish.
- Garnishing with fresh basil and Parmesan elevates the presentation and taste.
What You’ll Need
Gather everything you need for this quick and delicious meal.
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
For the Sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Reserve some pasta water for consistency.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken can be replaced with turkey.
- Cream can be substituted with half-and-half.
- Use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried for a lighter sauce.
- Gluten-free pasta is a great swap for a gluten-free option.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps for a delicious meal.
Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear the chicken until golden on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
Build the Sauce
Sauté minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes in the same skillet until fragrant. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping any bits off the bottom. Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan until combined and smooth.
Combine & Serve
Toss cooked pasta and seared chicken into the creamy sauce, ensuring everything is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan before serving.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, cream sauce does not freeze well.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a richer flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing chicken to achieve better browning.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat level to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side salad for a crisp contrast.
- Pair with crusty garlic bread for additional indulgence.
- Enjoy with a glass of white wine to complement the creamy flavors.
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