This Marry Me Pasta Recipe might prompt a proposal as it is rich, creamy, and delicious! Every morsel of delicate chicken, creamy Parmesan cream sauce, and tart sun-dried tomatoes is pure comfort food nirvana. The best thing about this is that it only takes thirty minutes to prepare.
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Recipe
✔ Ultra-Creamy & Cheesy : Parmesan quality abounds in a silky sauce.
✔ Quick & Easy : Perfect for hectic weeknights, a 30-minute dinner.
✔ Flavor Explosion : Bold flavors from smoky paprika, garlic, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes.
✔ Date-Night Approved : Simple enough for a weeknight dinner, elegant enough for a special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine) : Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Olive Oil : For sautéing the chicken.
- Chicken Breast (sliced into thin strips) : Juicy, tender, and protein-rich.
- Salt & Black Pepper : Enhances the flavor.
- Garlic Powder & Smoked Paprika : Adds depth and a slight smokiness.
For the Creamy Sauce:
- Butter : Adds rich flavor.
- Minced Garlic : Essential for that irresistible garlicky taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) : Adds a little heat.
- Heavy Cream : Makes the sauce incredibly creamy and luscious.
- Chicken Broth : Enhances depth and slightly thins the sauce.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese : Gives that nutty, cheesy richness.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes (Chopped) : Provides a tangy, sweet contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Italian Seasoning & Dried Basil : Classic herbs to balance the flavor.
- Fresh Parsley (Chopped) : A bright, fresh garnish.
- Extra Parmesan : Because more cheese is always better!
The complete ingredient list with measurements is in the recipe card below!
Want another creamy pasta dish to try? Check out Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a cheesy, flavorful twist!
Making Marry Me Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
- Cook pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter, then add minced garlic and red pepper flakes.
- Sauté for one minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Add Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and dried basil.
- Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet.
- Toss everything together until coated in the creamy sauce.
- Simmer for another two minutes until fully combined.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or garlic bread.
Love smoky flavors in pasta? Try Kielbasa and Pasta Recipes for a smoky, savory pasta experience!
Pro Advice for Perfect Marry Me Pasta
✔ Use Fresh Parmesan : Pre-shredded cheese won’t melt as smoothly!
✔ For a Thicker Sauce : Add more Parmesan or simmer a bit longer.
✔ Love Spice? Add a pinch of cayenne or more red pepper flakes.
✔ Want More Protein? Add grilled sausage, bacon, or shrimp.
✔ Lighter Version : Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
How to Serve
Pair this delicious Marry Me Pasta with:
Garlic Bread : To soak up every last drop of the incredible sauce!
A Simple Green Salad : Adds a fresh, crisp contrast.
Great Side Options : Roasted Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or asparagus.
Store Ahead and Leftovers
Storing
- Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheating
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
Freezing
- Not Recommended : The creamy sauce may separate when thawed.
FAQs
1. Why is Marry Me Pasta called that?
Legend has it that this incredibly creamy and flavorful pasta might just lead to a proposal! 💍
2. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Omit the chicken and substitute mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or extra spinach.
3. What other cheeses can I use?
Try Asiago, Romano, or mozzarella for an extra cheesy bite.
4. Can I make this in the Instant Pot?
Yes! First, sauté the chicken, then proceed with the recipe as usual.
Conclusion
This Marry Me Pasta is the ultimate comfort food rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a romantic dinner or just treating yourself, it’s guaranteed to impress!
Creamy, Cheesy, and Irresistible Marry Me Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing Spoon
- Pot for Boiling Pasta
- Colander
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breast sliced into thin strips
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
For the Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional for spice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried basil or 1 tablespoon fresh basil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Boil pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and dried basil. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until thickened.
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Simmer for another 2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve warm with garlic bread or a side salad.
Notes
For extra flavor, add mushrooms or spinach to the sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.