When you’re craving a dinner that feels indulgent but comes together quickly, this easy creamy Marry Me Chicken Bowtie Pasta is the answer. It’s a deliciously rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breast with a velvety sauce and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta. You’ll love how simple ingredients come together for a meal that feels special enough for date night but easy enough for a busy weekday.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this Marry Me Chicken pasta recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite. It’s packed with savory, creamy goodness and fresh herbs that brighten every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich, creamy sauce that’s full of flavor without complicated steps.
- Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients you probably already have.
- Bowtie pasta holds the sauce beautifully for a satisfying texture.
- Great for leftovers or meal prep with easy storage.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your creamy Marry Me Chicken Bowtie Pasta come together smoothly. The list is straightforward and balanced for maximum flavor and texture.
- 8 ounces bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 650 per serving
How to Make Easy Creamy Marry Me Chicken Bowtie Pasta – Recipe You'll Love
- Cook the bowtie pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes to the same skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Add the Italian seasoning and sun-dried tomatoes, letting the sauce simmer gently for 4-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it in the creamy sauce. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce and heated through, about 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t overcook the chicken; bite-sized pieces cook quickly and stay juicy.
- Use fresh garlic and good-quality Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it a little longer before adding chicken and pasta.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a nice tangy sweetness—don’t skip them!
- Reserve a bit of pasta water to loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce may thicken as it cools, so stir in a splash of milk or broth when reheating to bring back its silky texture.
You can also freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding liquid as needed to maintain creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is ideal because it holds the sauce well, you can substitute penne, rotini, or fusilli with great results.
Is the crushed red pepper necessary?
No, it’s optional. The crushed red pepper flakes add a subtle heat that balances the creaminess, but you can leave them out if you prefer a milder dish.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. The flavor will be different but still delicious.
What wine pairs well with Marry Me Chicken pasta?
A crisp Chardonnay or a light Sauvignon Blanc pairs nicely with the creamy sauce and chicken, enhancing the overall dining experience.
