If you're looking for a comforting, delicious dish that’s easy to make and sure to impress, this marry me chicken pasta is exactly what you need. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful herbs come together perfectly in this recipe that’s ideal for any potluck or casual dinner.
You’ll love how quickly this recipe comes together, making it a go-to when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the marry me chicken pasta’s rich flavors will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks.
- Creamy, flavorful sauce with a hint of spice from sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes.
- Tender chicken breasts cooked to juicy perfection.
- Simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
- Serves 6, great for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to whip up your marry me chicken pasta. Everything comes together in a rich, creamy sauce to coat the pasta and chicken beautifully.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: Approximately 520 per serving
How to Make Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta | Perfect Potluck Dish
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then add the grated Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and coat it in the creamy sauce. Add the cooked penne pasta and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Tips for the Best Results
- Slice the chicken thinly to ensure it cooks quickly and stays juicy.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor impact in the sauce.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add extra red pepper flakes gradually.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente texture holds up better in the creamy sauce.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce may thicken when chilled; add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to loosen it up.
You can also freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works great here, you can swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Is this recipe spicy?
The red pepper flakes add a mild kick, but you can easily adjust the heat by reducing or omitting them if you prefer a milder dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately and refrigerate them. When ready, combine with freshly cooked pasta and warm through before serving for best texture.
What can I serve with marry me chicken pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the creamy sauce.
