Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Recipe to Fall in Love With

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dish that’s so delicious, it might just inspire a proposal! This creamy, flavorful pasta combines tender chicken, a rich sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta to create a meal that’s both comforting and impressive. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or just craving something hearty, this recipe is sure to win hearts. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta, share tips for success, and answer common questions about this viral dish.

What Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a spin-off of the popular “Marry Me Chicken” recipe, which became famous for its rich, creamy, and savory flavors. The story goes that this dish is so tasty, it could make someone fall in love with you—or at least propose! By adding pasta, this version becomes a complete meal that’s perfect for date nights, family dinners, or even a cozy night in.

The dish features juicy chicken breasts cooked in a creamy tomato sauce with garlic, herbs, and parmesan cheese. The pasta soaks up all the flavors, making every bite absolutely delicious. Plus, it’s easy to make, even if you’re not a pro in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love Marry Me Chicken Pasta

There are so many reasons to love this dish. For starters, it’s super easy to prepare. Even if you’re new to cooking, you can whip up this meal in about 30 minutes. Also, the ingredients are simple and easy to find at any grocery store. Moreover, the creamy sauce and tender chicken make it feel like a restaurant-quality meal, but you can make it at home for a fraction of the cost.

Another reason to try Marry Me Chicken Pasta is its versatility. You can use any type of pasta, like penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti. Additionally, you can tweak the recipe to fit your taste by adding veggies or adjusting the spices. Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser—kids, adults, and picky eaters all love it!

Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need. Most of these are pantry staples, so you might already have them at home.

• Chicken: 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer).
• Pasta: 8 oz of your favorite pasta (penne or fettuccine works great).
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for cooking the chicken.
• Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced, for that rich flavor.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup to make the sauce creamy and smooth.
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated, for a cheesy kick.
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons for a slight tangy flavor.
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup to thin out the sauce.
• Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon for a mix of herbs like oregano and basil.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch for a little heat (optional).
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Fresh Basil or Parsley: For garnish and extra freshness.

If you want to add veggies, consider spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms. These add color and flavor to your Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Now, let’s get cooking! This recipe is straightforward, and we’ll break it down into simple steps. Follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Then, add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions. For example, penne usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Be sure not to rinse it, as the starch helps the sauce stick to the pasta.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Next, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. After that, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it smells amazing. Be careful not to burn it! Next, stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute. After that, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little spice. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now, slice the cooked chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together so the pasta and chicken are coated in the creamy goodness. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Finally, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your Marry Me Chicken Pasta hot, and watch everyone fall in love with it!

Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To make your Marry Me Chicken Pasta even better, here are some helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs make a big difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook it just until it’s done to keep it juicy.
• Try Different Pastas: Short pastas like rigatoni or long ones like linguine both work well.
• Add Veggies: Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms add nutrition and taste.
• Make It Ahead: You can prep the sauce and chicken in advance, then toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

For more cooking tips, check out Delish’s guide to perfect pasta dishes.

Variations of Marry Me Chicken Pasta

One of the best things about Marry Me Chicken Pasta is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

Vegetarian Marry Me Pasta

If you don’t eat meat, skip the chicken and use veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant. You can also add plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas. The creamy sauce will still be just as delicious!

Spicy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

For those who love a kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. You can also use spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken for extra heat.

Low-Carb Marry Me Pasta

If you’re watching carbs, swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. These options keep the dish light but still flavorful.

Gluten-Free Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To make this dish gluten-free, use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Brands like Barilla and Banza make great options that taste just like regular pasta.

Why Marry Me Chicken Pasta Is Perfect for Date Night

Planning a romantic dinner? Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a fantastic choice. For one, it looks and tastes fancy, but it’s so easy to make. Also, the creamy sauce and tender chicken feel indulgent, which is perfect for a special occasion. Moreover, you can pair it with a simple salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal. Finally, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress your date—hence the name!

For date night inspiration, visit Bon Appétit’s romantic dinner ideas.

Storing and Reheating Marry Me Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers, you’re in luck—Marry Me Chicken Pasta reheats beautifully. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Storing: Place leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce. You can also microwave it, but stir halfway through to heat evenly.
• Freezing: You can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a hearty dish, but you can make it lighter if needed. A typical serving (about 1.5 cups) contains roughly:

• Calories: 600-700
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 30g
• Carbs: 50g

To make it healthier, use whole wheat pasta, reduce the cream, or add more veggies. For detailed nutritional info, check out tools like MyFitnessPal.

FAQs About Marry Me Chicken Pasta

What makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta so special?

The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful herbs makes it irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to make and looks impressive!

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can use any pasta you like, such as spaghetti, rigatoni, or even ravioli. Just cook it according to the package instructions.

How can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta dairy-free?

Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a cheesy flavor.

Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta in advance?

Absolutely! Prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time, then cook the pasta fresh and combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta spicy?

It’s not spicy unless you add red pepper flakes or hot sauce. You can adjust the heat to your liking.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s a dish that brings people together with its rich, creamy flavors and heartwarming story. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one, a family gathering, or simply for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favourite. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and endless customisation options, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is perfect for any occasion. So, grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to create a dish that’s so good, it might just spark a proposal!