If you’re looking for a recipe that’s romantic, flavorful, and downright irresistible, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe might just be the one. Whether you’re cooking for a date night or a comforting family dinner, this pasta brings bold flavor and creamy comfort to your plate. And yes—it’s halal-friendly, pork-free, and completely delicious.
But before we dive into the magic of sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan cream, let’s unravel why this dish is making waves on dinner tables across the world.
Why It’s Called “Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe”
The name might sound whimsical, but the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe has earned its title thanks to its irresistible combination of flavors—creamy sauce, tender chicken, and a pop of tang from sun-dried tomatoes. According to foodies and bloggers, this dish has prompted actual marriage proposals. It’s rich, quick to make, and packed with comfort food vibes.
More than just a trend, this recipe skyrocketed in popularity on platforms like Pinterest and TikTok, where home cooks recreated it with their own twist.
Ingredients for the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta
To create this beloved dish, you’ll need a few simple but impactful ingredients. Thankfully, most of them are pantry staples. And if you’re following halal or allergen-free guidelines, we’ve included substitutions below.
- Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Penne pasta (or gluten-free alternative)
- Olive oil (for searing)
- Garlic (freshly minced)
- Sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
- Heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
- Parmesan cheese (make sure it’s rennet-free or use a vegan alternative)
- Chicken broth
- Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Step-by-Step
This recipe shines because it’s fast, flavorful, and can be ready in under 30 minutes. Here’s how to make it:
- Cook the pasta: Boil according to the package, drain, and set aside.
- Season and sear the chicken: Use olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until golden and set aside.
- Make the sauce:
- Sauté garlic in butter
- Add flour to make a roux
- Whisk in broth, cream, and cheese
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and seasonings
- Combine pasta and chicken: Return everything to the skillet and stir well.
- Garnish and serve: Top with fresh basil and extra parmesan.
➡️ If you enjoy creamy pasta dinners like this, you’ll also love our creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne—a perfect fusion of earthy and savory flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Even the best cooks can slip up. Watch out for these pitfalls:
- Overcooking the chicken – Aim for 165°F internal temp.
- Skipping fresh garlic – Pre-minced won’t deliver the same boldness.
- Using bottled parmesan – Freshly grated melts better and tastes richer.
- Forgetting to drain the sun-dried tomatoes – Too much oil can break your sauce.
Ingredient Substitutions and Dietary Notes
Whether you’re cooking for allergies, religious preferences, or dietary needs, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe can be adjusted easily.
🌱 Dairy-Free Option:
- Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream
- Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a cheesy effect
🌾 Gluten-Free Option:
- Use rice pasta or gluten-free penne
- Replace flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch
Variations to Try with Your Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
To keep things exciting, you can remix this recipe in fun, flavorful ways:
- Add heat: Sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or chili oil
- Make it veggie-rich: Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms
- Use a different protein: Chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian version
- Swap pasta: Try it with rigatoni, fusilli, or even gnocchi
➡️ Craving something even more comforting? These cheesy chicken broccoli stuffed shells are a hearty twist on the classic chicken-pasta combo.
Best Sides to Serve With Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Complete your meal with sides that balance the richness:
- Garlic breadsticks (use olive oil instead of butter for dairy-free)
- Lemon vinaigrette salad with arugula or mixed greens
- Roasted vegetables – asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli
How to Store and Reheat This Dish
No one wants to waste a dish this good! Here’s how to store leftovers:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months (though cream sauces can separate slightly)
- Reheat gently: Add a splash of cream or broth on the stovetop or microwave
Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
– Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and refrigerate for up to 2 days before serving.
– Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, they add more flavor and stay moist. Just trim the excess fat.
– What if I don’t like sun-dried tomatoes?
Use cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers instead.
– Is this recipe spicy?
Not by default, but you can adjust the heat to your taste.
– How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
Simmer longer or add a slurry of flour or cornstarch with broth.
– Can I make this recipe in one pot?
Yes—just cook pasta first, drain, and then reuse the same pan.
Final Tips for the Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
After following all the steps and layering your flavors just right, a few final touches can elevate this dish from “delicious” to unforgettable. Here’s how to ensure your Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe truly lives up to its name:
🌿 Use Fresh Basil Generously
Don’t underestimate the power of a handful of freshly chopped basil. It adds an aromatic finish, a pop of color, and a peppery brightness that perfectly contrasts the rich, creamy sauce. For best results, add it just before serving so the leaves stay vibrant.
🛒 Prioritize Quality Ingredients
Whenever possible, opt for:
-
Freshly grated parmesan over pre-shredded varieties (for better melting and flavor)
-
Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil (drain them well, but the oil helps preserve flavor)
-
Organic chicken or halal-certified cuts for cleaner, more tender results
These small upgrades truly enhance the overall experience of your pasta.
🥂 Pair with a Thoughtful Beverage
While traditional recipes might call for a wine pairing, we recommend a sparkling non-alcoholic rosé or pomegranate spritzer. The light acidity cuts through the creaminess and adds a festive touch—making it ideal for date nights or even anniversaries.
💬 Cook with Love, Serve with Confidence
-
Plate the pasta in a warm bowl for restaurant-quality presentation.
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Top with extra parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for richness.
-
Add red pepper flakes if your guests enjoy a gentle kick of heat.
❤️ This Recipe Wins Hearts (And Requests for Seconds)
If you’ve made it this far, you’re ready to win hearts and tastebuds with the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner idea or an easy, creamy comfort food dish, this recipe checks all the boxes—and keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
PrintMarry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe: A Creamy, Dreamy Dinner You’ll Fall for
This rich and creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a quick, romantic dinner made with sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan, and tender chicken.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 10 oz penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 3 tbsp flour
- 2 cups halal chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or dairy-free substitute)
- 1 cup grated parmesan (rennet-free)
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear in olive oil until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter, sauté garlic, and whisk in flour to create a roux.
- Add broth, cream, and parmesan. Stir until smooth.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Simmer to thicken.
- Return chicken and pasta to the sauce. Stir to combine.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American