Description
Creamy, dreamy, and downright irresistible, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the kind of dish that might just inspire a proposal. It combines tender chicken breast with a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and just the right amount of herbs and spice. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a special occasion, or simply want to wow your weeknight dinner crowd, this recipe delivers bold flavor in every comforting bite.
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Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large)
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp paprika
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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2 tbsp olive oil
For the Creamy Sauce:
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
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1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 tsp dried basil or 1 tbsp fresh chopped basil
For the Pasta:
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8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
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Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
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Extra Parmesan for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
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Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
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Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/75°C).
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Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
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In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1–2 minutes.
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Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
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Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
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Add Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using), stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
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Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
Step 4: Combine Everything
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Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
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Slice the chicken into strips and return to the skillet, nestling it into the pasta.
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If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
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Let everything warm together for 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
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Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and chopped fresh herbs.
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Serve hot with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
Notes
Use Fresh Parmesan – It melts better and adds rich flavor.
Adjust Heat – Leave out red pepper flakes for a milder version.
Rest the Chicken – Allows juices to redistribute and keeps it tender.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Keep it al dente to absorb the sauce perfectly.
Add a Veggie Boost – Spinach, mushrooms, or peas blend beautifully into the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: American-Italian