If you’re craving a dish that combines comfort, elegance, and a touch of romance all in one skillet, look no further than Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This crowd-pleaser features juicy chicken pieces, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy Parmesan sauce that wraps around tender pasta like a warm hug. Whether you’re aiming to impress a special someone or just treat yourself to a restaurant-worthy meal at home, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the answer—rich in flavor, easy to prepare, and truly unforgettable.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Marry Me Chicken Pasta lies in its straightforward list of ingredients, each one playing a vital role in creating the final masterpiece. With a handful of bold flavors, creamy textures, and pops of color, you’ll see how these simple items work together seamlessly.

Rigatoni pasta: Its large tubes hold onto every bit of that luscious sauce, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite.
Chicken breasts: Bite-size pieces cook quickly and stay tender, soaking up all the delicious seasonings.
Salt and pepper: These classics season the chicken perfectly, enhancing all the other flavors in the dish.
Olive oil (or sun-dried tomato oil): Adds richness and helps brown the chicken, while also carrying extra aroma from the sun-dried tomatoes if you use their oil.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides a warm, savory backbone that’s essential to the sauce.
Red pepper flakes: Just the right amount of heat to cut through the creaminess and brighten every forkful.
Sun-dried tomatoes: These chewy, tangy pops of flavor elevate the whole dish with their unique sweet acidity.
Chicken broth: A splash of broth keeps the sauce from getting too heavy and adds a subtle savory note.
Heavy cream: The secret to that dreamy, luxurious sauce that clings to every piece of pasta and chicken.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty bite and helps thicken up the sauce into silky perfection.
Fresh basil: Chopped basil adds color and a fresh, peppery finish that makes every bite sing.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until just al dente, following the package directions—this way, your pasta holds up nicely when mixed with the sauce later. Drain and set aside, but don’t forget to reserve a splash of pasta water in case you want to loosen up the sauce.

Step 2: Season and Cook Chicken

Pat your chicken pieces dry and season them with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Let the pieces cook without stirring too much—they’ll develop a golden crust that locks in all the juices. Sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes, until cooked through and beautifully browned.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for just a minute or so, until the garlic becomes fragrant (resist the urge to rush this step—the aroma is incredible!). Then toss in the sun-dried tomatoes, letting them soften and deepen in flavor for another couple of minutes.

Step 4: Add Broth and Cream

Pour in your chicken broth and heavy cream, and bring the mixture just to a gentle simmer. The sauce will start to bubble and come together, gradually thickening over about 10 minutes. Stir here and there, soaking in the transformation from basic ingredients to creamy decadence.

Step 5: Combine with Cheese

Lower the heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil. Watch as the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a rich, velvety texture and heavenly aroma. This is where Marry Me Chicken Pasta starts to look irresistibly inviting!

Step 6: Add Pasta

Fold your drained rigatoni into the skillet, making sure each piece is generously coated in that creamy, tomato-flecked sauce. Toss everything together gently, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if you’d like a silkier finish.

Step 7: Serve

Spoon your Marry Me Chicken Pasta onto plates or into wide, shallow bowls. Finish with extra Parmesan and a scattering of fresh basil for a burst of color and freshness. Dig in while it’s piping hot and watch as your family or guests swoon over every bite.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A generous shower of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top brings a salty, melty finish that’s practically required. Don’t skip a flourish of torn fresh basil—it cuts through the richness and makes each plate irresistible. For a touch of visual drama, you could even sprinkle a pinch of extra red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving.

Side Dishes

The creamy, savory flavors of Marry Me Chicken Pasta pair beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in a zesty vinaigrette, which helps balance the richness. A side of warm, crusty bread or garlic knots is perfect for mopping up every last drop of that spectacular sauce. If you want to get a little fancier, roasted asparagus or broccoli make bright, delicious companions.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving this at a dinner party, try spooning individual portions into mini cast iron skillets or elegant pasta bowls for a cozy touch. For date night, twirl the pasta high on the plate and top with a single, beautifully browned chicken piece, a few artful folds of basil, and a dramatic sprinkle of Parmesan right at the table. The colors and aromas alone will have everyone asking for seconds.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Marry Me Chicken Pasta, lucky you—it stores very well! Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, making reheated portions just as satisfying (if not more!) than the original serving.

Freezing

For longer-term storage, let the pasta cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to two months. Try to use containers that allow minimal excess air to help prevent freezer burn and keep that creamy sauce tasting fresh.

Reheating

When you’re ready for another round of Marry Me Chicken Pasta, reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. The microwave also works in a pinch—just heat in short increments and stir often. Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan before serving to revive that just-cooked flair.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Marry Me Chicken Pasta is delicious with penne, fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. Just choose a shape with ridges or holes for maximum sauce coverage.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

You can make a dairy-free version with your favorite plant-based cream and Parmesan alternatives. Coconut cream lends richness, and nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan can provide that signature cheesy flavor.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Sautéed spinach, baby kale, or roasted bell peppers make fantastic additions, letting you sneak in extra nutrients and color without losing the magic of Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

If you can’t find sun-dried tomatoes, try using halved cherry tomatoes or even a tablespoon of tomato paste for a similar depth of flavor. The tanginess is harder to match, but a splash of balsamic vinegar helps bring the same brightness.

Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the chicken and even make the sauce a day in advance. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve and combine everything together to ensure the best texture and flavor. Leftovers also reheat beautifully.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a recipe that delivers both comfort and a touch of culinary magic, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is your answer. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to return to again and again—whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or a very special dinner for two. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it sparks a few dinner-table proposals!