Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe has all the elements of a crowd-pleasing dish: creamy sauce, tender chicken, and pasta that’s full of flavor. The sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan elevate the dish, while the Italian seasoning and smoked paprika provide just the right amount of warmth. It’s an easy, weeknight-friendly meal that feels special enough for a date night or family gathering.

Ingredients

8 oz dried pasta of choice (half standard box)
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup onion, finely chopped
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon butter
1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
½ teaspoon each Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Basil leaves for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Combine: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing to coat with the creamy sauce. Heat for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is well combined and hot.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Use mushrooms or tofu in place of chicken for a delicious vegetarian version.
Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Add Vegetables: Toss in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition.
Shrimp Alternative: Replace the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little extra cream or broth if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape will work, such as penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni.

Is it okay to use frozen chicken?

Fresh chicken is recommended, but if using frozen chicken, make sure it’s thawed and patted dry before cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and chicken separately and combine them just before serving to keep the pasta from getting too soft.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free cream alternative (like coconut cream) and dairy-free cheese options.

Can I use jarred sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, jarred sun-dried tomatoes are perfectly fine and will work just as well as dried tomatoes.

How can I make the sauce spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to bring more heat to the dish.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is possible, but the texture of the pasta may change upon reheating.

What other herbs work well in this dish?

In addition to basil, you can use parsley, thyme, or oregano to add more herbal notes to the dish.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add spinach, bell peppers, or even peas to boost the nutritional value and flavor.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a decadent, easy-to-make dish that will quickly become a favorite. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and the perfect blend of spices, it’s a great option for both special occasions and casual weeknight dinners. Give it a try, and you’ll see why this recipe is sure to win hearts!