Description
Creamy, savory, and packed with irresistible flavor, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the kind of dish that wins hearts—and maybe even proposals. Juicy seared chicken is simmered in a rich parmesan sun-dried tomato cream sauce and tossed with tender pasta for a meal that’s elegant enough for date night, but simple enough for a cozy weeknight dinner. One bite and you’ll understand why it’s called Marry Me Chicken.
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Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp paprika
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2 tbsp olive oil
For the 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 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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1 cup chicken broth
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1 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free)
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½ cup grated parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
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10 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work well)
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¼–½ cup reserved pasta water (if needed)
For Garnish:
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Fresh basil or parsley
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Extra parmesan
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 pasta until al dente, according to package instructions.
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Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
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Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden and fully cooked.
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Remove from skillet and slice or cube once slightly cooled.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
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In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and add garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds.
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Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
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Pour in chicken broth and stir, scraping up any brown bits from the pan.
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Add cream and parmesan, stirring until cheese is melted and sauce thickens (about 4–5 minutes).
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Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Pasta
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Return chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
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Add cooked pasta and stir until well combined.
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If needed, stir in reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
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Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley.
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Top with extra parmesan and serve hot.
Notes
Use Chicken Thighs for Juicier Meat – Though breasts work just as well.
Simmer Gently – Helps the sauce thicken without curdling.
Add Greens – Spinach or kale can be stirred in for extra nutrition.
Make it Spicy – Increase red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American-Italian