Description
This creamy, savory, and utterly irresistible Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a velvety sun-dried tomato cream sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a dish that’s earned its reputation for inspiring romance — or at least second helpings. Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or when you want to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup chicken broth
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¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temp). Remove and let rest. -
Cook the Pasta:
While the chicken cooks, boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. -
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add butter and garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up bits. Stir in heavy cream and simmer 3–4 minutes. -
Add Tomatoes & Cheese:
Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes (optional), and Parmesan cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy. Adjust thickness with pasta water if needed.
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Combine & Serve:
Slice chicken. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Add sliced chicken on top. Garnish with basil and extra Parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
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Protein Swap: Use turkey, shrimp, or tofu for a different twist.
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Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan.
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Health Tip: Swap for whole wheat pasta or use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter option.
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Freezer-Friendly: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired