Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Creamy, Cheesy Delight
This creamy, cheesy dish, known as Marry Me Chicken Pasta, has taken the world by storm since 2016. The New York Times named it their top recipe of 2023. It got its famous name when someone exclaimed, “I’d marry you for that chicken!” during a video shoot.
This recipe combines tender chicken, a flavorful sun-dried tomato sauce, and your choice of pasta. You can use penne or fusilli, and even swap chicken breasts for thighs for more juiciness. For a dairy-free version, try using cream alternatives. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a casual meal, and it pairs well with sides like Garlic Bread or Cacio E Pepe Brussels Sprouts.
Key Takeaways
- Launched by Delish in 2016, this marry me chicken pasta recipe became a viral hit, featured in The New York Times.
- Its name stems from a video shoot where testers declared it worthy of a marriage proposal!
- Flexible swaps like chicken thighs or low-sodium broth keep the recipe adaptable for any kitchen.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add bold flavor year-round, while optional sides like Melting Potatoes enhance its comfort-food vibe.
- Stores easily in the fridge for 3 days or freezer for 2 months, ideal for meal prep.
What Makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta So Special
This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a love story. From its playful start to its viral fame, here’s why it’s a favorite among many.
The Origin of the “Marry Me” Name
In 2016, Lindsay Funston created a skillet dish with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs. A video producer joked, “I’d marry you for that chicken!” This joke became the dish’s name, adding to its romantic appeal. It’s perfect for date nights or anniversaries, making it a standout choice.
Why This Dish Has Become an Internet Sensation
Here’s why it’s a hit on social media:
- Ease meets elegance: It uses simple ingredients like pasta, cream, and pantry staples.
- Showstopping visuals: The dish’s vibrant red tomatoes and creamy sauce are perfect for Instagram.
- Timeless appeal: The New York Times named it their most popular recipe in 2023, seven years after it was first shared.
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
Every bite of this dish balances:
- Creamy sauce thickened with butter and flour
- Sun-dried tomatoes for tangy sweetness
- Herbs like basil and oregano for freshness
- A hint of red pepper flakes for warmth
The result is a dish where tender chicken, cheesy pasta, and savory tomatoes come together. It’s comfort food that feels special yet simple enough for any night.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Choosing the right ingredients makes every bite of this creamy pasta dish special. Start with 1 ½ pounds of boneless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces for even cooking. Rigatoni or penne pasta is best to hold the sauce—use 10 ounces for the perfect balance.
Protein: Chicken breast gives 27g of protein per serving. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika before searing in 1 tbsp olive oil. Add garlic granules for extra aroma without the risk of burning.
Sauce Base: 1 cup heavy cream and 2 cups chicken broth are the base. Sun-dried tomatoes (½ cup chopped) add a tangy flavor. Use 3 tbsp flour to thicken the sauce and 3 tbsp butter for extra richness.
| Key Ingredients | Quantity | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 1 ½ lbs | Main protein source |
| Pasta | 10 oz | Base for sauce adhesion |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Creamy texture |
| Sun-dried tomatoes | ½ cup | Umami flavor boost |
For flexibility, swap fresh basil for dried oregano if you prefer. Prep time is just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights. Each serving has 575 calories and 32g protein, offering a satisfying meal. Keep flour, salt, and pepper ready for quick assembly.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Cooking the easy chicken pasta dish doesn’t need a fancy kitchen. You probably have most of these tools already. Making homemade creamy pasta is simple with just a few basic items.
Basic Equipment
Here are the essentials:
- Stainless steel skillet (12-inch) for searing chicken and sauce
- Measuring cups and spoons for precise portions
- Large mixing bowl (for marinating chicken)
- Wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula (stirring sauce without scratching pans)
- Colander (draining pasta and veggies)
Optional Tools to Make Preparation Easier
These tools make things easier:
- Microplane grater (finely grates Parmesan for sauce)
- Instant-read thermometer (ensure chicken reaches 165°F)
- Kitchen tongs (toss pasta evenly in sauce)
- Garlic press (mince cloves twice as fast)
| Tool | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Skillet | Handles high heat for browning chicken and thickening sauce |
| Measuring spoons | Guarantees consistent homemade creamy pasta texture |
| Colander | Drains pasta in seconds without splashing |
Use what you have. Even a small 8-inch pan works if you don’t have a 12-inch skillet. The easy chicken pasta dish will still taste great!
Step-by-Step Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Love the marry me chicken pasta recipe? Let’s dive into the simple steps that make this the best chicken pasta recipe for cozy dinners. Follow these instructions for a creamy, cheesy dish ready in 1 hour 45 minutes.
Preparing the Chicken
Cut 1 pound of boneless chicken into 1-inch cubes. Toss with ½ tsp salt, 1 tsp garlic granules, 1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp black pepper, and 1 tbsp flour until evenly coated. Sauté in a skillet with 2 tbsp olive oil until golden. Set aside.
Creating the Signature Creamy Sauce
- Melt 2 tbsp butter in the same skillet. Sauté 6 minced garlic cloves until fragrant.
- Whisk in 6 tbsp flour to form a roux, cooking 2 minutes to remove raw taste.
- Slowly add 1 cup chicken broth, ¼ cup white wine, and 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes. Simmer until thickened.
- Stir in 1½ cups heavy cream, ½ cup Parmesan, and 1 tsp red pepper flakes. Add 3 cups spinach until wilted.
Cooking the Pasta to Perfection
| Ingredient | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 14 oz penne pasta | Cook in salted water 2-3 minutes less than package instructions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water. |
| Seasoning | Salting pasta water generously for extra flavor. |
Combining Everything Together
Return chicken to the sauce. Toss in cooked pasta, adding reserved water as needed for smoothness. Top with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve warm—this easy chicken pasta dish shines best fresh from the stove!
Tips for Making the Creamiest, Most Flavorful Version
Learning to make homemade creamy pasta is easy. Start by drying chicken breasts well before cooking. This ensures they sear, not steam. Heat your skillet well and add a thin layer of oil for even browning.
- Sear then bake: Cook chicken in the pan first, then transfer to a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes. The rendered fat becomes the sauce base.
- Whisk constantly: When mixing flour with butter (a roux), cook 2 minutes before adding liquids to avoid lumps.
- Low and slow: Add heavy cream gradually, keeping heat low to prevent boiling. Simmer sauce 5-10 minutes to thicken naturally.
For the best homemade creamy pasta, use freshly grated Parmesan. Stir cheese into the sauce off the heat to melt smoothly. Save ½ cup pasta water! If sauce thickens too much, stir in ¼ cup at a time. Overcooked sauce? Mix 1 tsp cornstarch with cold water, then whisk into the pot.
Pro hack: Toss pasta directly into the sauce pot post-cook. The residual heat coats every noodle perfectly. Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes last to keep vibrant colors and texture.
Delicious Variations to Try
Love the flavorful pasta with chicken but want more heat? Try these tweaks for your homemade creamy pasta. Double the red pepper flakes to 1-2 tsp. Add a diced jalapeño to the garlic sauté.
For a smoky flavor, stir in 1 tsp smoked paprika with the chicken. Finish with chili oil or crushed red flakes for a spicy kick.
Spicy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Add 1-2 tsp red pepper flakes to the sauce
- Sauté 1 jalapeño with garlic for extra heat
- Try chipotle powder for a smoky depth
Vegetarian Alternatives
Replace chicken with roasted portobello mushrooms. Marinate them in olive oil and Italian seasoning. Use ½ cup chickpeas for protein, or pan-fry tofu cubes in the same spices.
Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth. Add ¼ cup nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste. Stir in ½ cup artichoke hearts for extra umami.
Low-Carb Options
Reduce carbs by 60% with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Simmer the sauce without flour, thickening it with extra Parmesan. Use almond milk instead of cream for a lighter base.
Add ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes and spinach for texture. Pair with a side of avocado for healthy fats.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta
Make your romantic dinner recipe even better by adding the right sides and drinks. Choose from these suggestions to boost both taste and look.
| Wine Option | Pairing Notes | Recommended Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Chardonnay | Pair with oak-tinged options like California Sonoma-Cutrer ($22) for creaminess. | |
| Pinot Noir | Opt for Willamette Valley wines like Domaine Serene ($18) to balance acidity. | |
| Sparkling Options | Try Mionetto Prosecco ($15) or Dancing Bull Rosé ($16) for celebratory touches. |
For side dishes, consider:
- Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle with olive oil and lemon zest (15-min prep).
- Herb-Focaccia: Use store-bought dough for a 30-minute fresh-baked option.
- Mixed Green Salad: Toss with lemon-balsamic dressing to cut richness.
Quick sides like sautéed spinach (5 mins) or garlic bread (10 mins) are great for casual meals. For romantic dinner recipe nights, add truffle oil to mashed potatoes or roasted beets. Always save ½ cup pasta water when making the best chicken pasta recipe for sauce tweaks.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
After enjoying your creamy tomato chicken pasta, keep leftovers fresh by following these tips. Let the dish cool to room temperature first—never refrigerate hot food. Store in airtight glass or BPA-free containers for up to 4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months, though texture may change slightly.
| Storage Method | Max Time | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Keep away from raw meats. |
| Freezer | 2 months | Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating. |
Reheat small portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes. For larger batches, gently warm over low heat on the stove. Stir in ¼–½ cup extra cream if the sauce thickens. Always ensure the dish reaches 165°F internally. Leftovers make great bases for pasta salads or soups—simply add fresh herbs or broth to refresh flavors.
Conclusion
The marry me chicken pasta recipe is more than just a meal. It’s a special experience. The creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and tender chicken make it both comforting and impressive.
It’s perfect for date nights or cozy weeknights. This recipe serves 4 and is ready in just 30 minutes. The mix of Parmesan, garlic, and herbs leaves a lasting flavor.
Feel free to make the marry me chicken pasta recipe your own. Try gluten-free pasta, swap chicken for veggies, or add more red pepper flakes for heat. The core ingredients of 8 oz pasta, 1 lb chicken, and ½ cup Parmesan are key, but your twist makes it special.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Pair it with Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, or add garlic bread for extra indulgence. With 560 calories per serving, it’s rich but worth it. Ready to try it? Dive into the recipe and make it your own. Share your creations online—hashtag #MarryMePasta—and inspire others to find their perfect match in the kitchen. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor and creativity, one bite at a time.
FAQ
What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a tasty dish. It has tender chicken in a creamy tomato sauce. The sauce includes sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and spices. It’s known for its rich flavor and romantic name, which might even inspire a proposal!
How did Marry Me Chicken earn its name?
The name “Marry Me Chicken” came from a joke. A videographer said they’d “marry” the recipe creator after tasting it. This funny moment made the dish famous for romantic dinners.
Why has this recipe gone viral on social media?
It’s a hit because of its easy ingredients and stunning look. It’s simple to make, which has made it popular on TikTok and Instagram.
What are the essential ingredients for this recipe?
You’ll need chicken breasts, pasta, heavy cream, chicken stock, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian seasonings. These ingredients are common, making the dish easy to prepare.
What kitchen tools do I need to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
You’ll need a skillet, knife, measuring tools, bowls, colander, and cooking utensils. You might also use a microplane for cheese and a thermometer for chicken.
What is the best way to cook the chicken?
Cut the chicken into cubes and season with salt, garlic, paprika, and pepper. Dust with flour for a golden crust when seared.
How do I create the creamy sauce for this dish?
Start by sautéing garlic. Then, make a roux with butter and flour. Add chicken broth and heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and seasonings, whisking continuously.
What pasta should I use for this recipe?
Use rigatoni or fettuccine for the sauce. Penne or fusilli are good alternatives too.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Use roasted mushrooms, tofu, or cauliflower instead of chicken. Use vegetable broth for a rich flavor.
How can I make this pasta dish low-carb?
Try zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or shirataki noodles. Adjust the sauce thickening method as needed.
What wines pair well with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Chardonnay or Pinot Noir are great choices. For a festive touch, try Prosecco or dry Rosé.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat with a splash of cream or broth. Avoid freezing the sauce.
