The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Marry Me Chicken Pasta – The Creamy, Irresistible Dish That Wins Hearts

Few dishes live up to their name quite like Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This rich, indulgent, and soul-satisfying recipe combines juicy chicken thighs, al dente pasta, and a luxurious parmesan cream sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. One bite and you’ll understand why this dish has earned legendary status in home kitchens and date-night menus alike.

Whether you’re cooking for someone special or simply craving a comforting yet elegant meal, this pasta delivers restaurant-quality flavor with approachable, pantry-friendly ingredients. It’s bold, creamy, perfectly balanced, and undeniably unforgettable.

Ingredients and Their Roles

For the Chicken

1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs (cut into 1-inch pieces) – Exceptionally tender and juicy, chicken thighs absorb seasoning beautifully and stay moist during cooking.
½ tsp salt & ¼ tsp cracked black pepper – Essential base seasoning that enhances the natural flavor of the chicken.
1 tsp garlic powder – Adds deep, savory aroma without overpowering.
½ tsp paprika – Contributes gentle smokiness and a warm golden color.
½ tsp chili powder – Provides a subtle heat that balances the creaminess.
½ tsp dried oregano – Introduces earthy, Mediterranean notes.
4 tbsp olive oil, divided – Ensures a perfect sear and builds flavor in the sauce.

For the Pasta and Cream Sauce

10 oz pasta (treccioni, penne, or rigatoni) – Short pasta shapes hold the creamy sauce in every bite.
2 tbsp butter – Adds richness and silky mouthfeel.
3 tbsp all-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce to a luscious, clingy consistency.
1 clove garlic, minced – The aromatic backbone of the sauce.
1 tsp tomato paste – Enhances depth, color, and subtle sweetness.
1 cup heavy cream – The heart of the sauce, delivering luxurious creaminess.
2 cups chicken broth – Balances richness while adding savory complexity.
2 oz cream cheese, softened – Creates an ultra-smooth, velvety texture.
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Melts seamlessly for nutty, umami-packed flavor.
¾ cup sun-dried tomatoes – Tangy-sweet bursts that define the dish.
1 tbsp Italian seasoning – A harmonious blend of classic herbs.
¼ tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder – Perfectly seasons the sauce.
Fresh parsley (for garnish) – Adds freshness, color, and balance.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Season the Chicken: In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, and oregano until evenly coated.
Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Build the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add remaining olive oil and butter. Once melted, stir in flour and cook for 1 minute until lightly golden.
Add Aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Create the Cream Sauce: Gradually whisk in chicken broth, followed by heavy cream. Add cream cheese and stir until fully melted and smooth.
Season and Enrich: Add parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and sun-dried tomatoes. Simmer gently until thickened.
Combine Everything: Return chicken to the skillet. Add cooked pasta and toss until fully coated. Use reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Finish and Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Why This Recipe Is Loved

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is adored for its perfect balance of creamy, savory, and tangy flavors. The sauce clings to every piece of pasta, the chicken remains irresistibly juicy, and the sun-dried tomatoes add a signature pop that keeps you coming back for more.

Pro Tips for Perfection

Use freshly grated parmesan for the smoothest melt and best flavor.
Don’t overcook the chicken—golden and juicy is the goal.
Adjust thickness easily with reserved pasta water.
Low simmer only to prevent the cream sauce from separating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccolini. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon completes the experience beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the ultimate combination of simplicity and indulgence. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for special occasions. With its creamy texture, bold flavors, and heart-winning appeal, this is a recipe you’ll return to again and again. One bite truly says it all.