Hey there, foodie friend! Ever tasted something so good you thought, “I could marry whoever made this”? That’s the vibe with Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This creamy, dreamy dish is all over the internet, and for good reason—it’s easy, packed with flavor, and feels like a hug in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a hot date or just craving something special, this recipe’s got your back. IMO, it’s the kind of meal that makes you look like a pro chef without breaking a sweat. Let’s get into why this pasta is pure magic and how you can whip it up at home.
What’s Marry Me Chicken Pasta All About?
So, what’s the deal with this dish? Marry Me Chicken Pasta is like comfort food with a fancy twist. It’s a spin-off of the viral “Marry Me Chicken” from Delish, which was so tasty it supposedly made people want to propose. The pasta version adds noodles that soak up a luscious sauce made with chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, cream, and parmesan. It’s rich but not heavy, with a tangy-sweet kick that keeps you coming back for more.
Here’s what makes it tick:
- Chicken: Usually boneless breast, but rotisserie chicken works for a quick fix.
- Pasta: Sturdy shapes like penne or rigatoni hold up best.
- Sauce: A creamy blend of heavy cream, parmesan, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes, often with herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning.
- Extras: Some recipes toss in spinach or a splash of white wine for extra flair.
It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but comes together in about 30 minutes. Perfect for when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
There are two main ways to make this dish, so you can pick what suits your style. Got a thing for minimal cleanup? Go one-pot. Prefer a classic approach? Cook the pasta separately. Both are delicious, so you can’t go wrong.
Method 1: One-Pot Wonder
This method’s for those days when you just can’t deal with extra dishes. Here’s the rundown, inspired by Taming Twins:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, deep pan over medium heat. (Pro tip: Use the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes jar for a flavor boost.)
- Add ascended to Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, dreamy dish that’s quick and easy to make. Here’s how to make it in one pot:
- Add 650g boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces) and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes until starting to brown.
- Reduce heat, add 3 crushed garlic cloves, 170g finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 1 tsp oregano, and 2 tsp paprika. Stir for 3-5 minutes until garlic softens.
- Add 250g dried pasta and 650ml chicken stock. Stir, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until pasta is cooked and most liquid is absorbed.
- Lower heat, add 120g baby spinach and 150ml double cream. Stir for 1-3 minutes until spinach wilts and cream is heated through.
- Turn off heat, stir in 50g grated parmesan, and adjust seasoning.
Nutrition (per serving):
- Calories: 809 kcal
- Protein: 60g
- Fat: 29g
- Carbs: 80g

Method 2: Classic Skillet Style
If you like a bit more control over your pasta texture, try this method from The Recipe Critic:
- Cook 10 oz penne pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Season 1.5 lbs chicken (cut into 1-inch pieces) with ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp pepper. Sear in 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes until cooked through. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter, add 2 tsp minced garlic, and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in 3 tbsp flour to make a paste.
- Whisk in 2 cups chicken broth, 1 cup heavy cream, and 1 cup grated parmesan.
- Add 1 cup drained sun-dried tomatoes, 1 tsp paprika, and 2 tsp Italian seasoning. Simmer until thickened.
- Return chicken and pasta to the skillet, toss to coat, and garnish with fresh basil.
Nutrition (per serving):
- Calories: 646 kcal
- Protein: 41g
- Fat: 31g
- Carbs: 51g

Quick Comparison Table
Method | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
One-Pot | Less cleanup, faster prep | Pasta texture may vary |
Skillet Style | Better control over pasta doneness | More dishes to wash |
Tips to Nail It Every Time
Want to make this dish absolutely perfect? Here are some tricks to elevate your game:
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese can have additives that mess with the sauce’s smoothness. Grate your own for the best melt and flavor.
- Stick with Heavy Cream: Half-and-half or milk might curdle or thin out the sauce. Heavy cream gives that velvety texture.
- Add Greens: Toss in spinach, kale, or broccoli for color and nutrition. Add them at the end so they don’t overcook.
- Save Time with Rotisserie Chicken: Shred a store-bought rotisserie chicken to cut prep time in half.
- Wine for Depth: A splash of white wine (like sauvignon blanc) adds a subtle richness. If you don’t drink, chicken broth works fine.
- Check Chicken Temp: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken hits 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Got a picky eater? Chop sun-dried tomatoes finely so they melt into the sauce, or swap chicken for shrimp or a meat alternative for vegetarians.
Why It’s So Darn Delicious
Ever wonder why this dish is such a hit? It’s all about flavor harmony. The creamy sauce wraps every bite in comfort, while sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy-sweet zing. Parmesan brings nutty umami, and garlic and herbs tie it all together. The pasta soaks up the sauce, and the chicken stays juicy, making every forkful a party. It’s like a cozy Italian trattoria in your kitchen, but without the hefty bill.
My First Time Making It
Okay, real talk: I was skeptical the first time I made this. I mean, chicken and pasta in a creamy sauce? Sounds good, but marriage proposal good? I gave it a whirl for a friend’s dinner party, and holy moly, it was a game-changer. The sauce was so addictive, I caught my buddy scraping the pan with a spoon. I’ve made it at least five times since, and it’s now my go-to when I want to impress without stressing. Trust me, you’ll get why it’s called “Marry Me” after one bite.
Serving and Storing
This dish is a star on its own, but if you want to round out the meal:
- Pair with a Side: A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or garlic bread to mop up the sauce.
- Drink Match: A chilled white wine (like pinot grigio) or sparkling water with a lemon twist.
- Presentation: Serve in a big, shallow bowl and sprinkle with extra parmesan and fresh basil for that wow factor.
Storage Tips:
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream to revive the sauce.
- Freezer: Not ideal, as the pasta can get mushy, but if you must, freeze for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Wrapping It Up
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s a vibe. It’s quick, versatile, and so delicious it might just earn you a ring (or at least some serious compliments). Whether you go one-pot or skillet style, you’re in for a treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. So, grab your pan, channel your inner chef, and get ready to fall in love with every bite. What’s your favorite way to make this dish? Try it out and let me know!
FAQ
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Skip the chicken or use a meat alternative like tofu or tempeh. Swap chicken stock for vegetable stock, and you’re good to go.
What pasta works best?
Sturdy shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli hold the sauce well. Avoid thin pastas like spaghetti, as they can break apart.
Can I freeze it?
Freezing’s not the best bet—pasta can get soggy. Stick to fridge storage for 3-4 days for the best texture.