Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Rich Parmesan Flavor

Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Rich Parmesan Flavor is a creamy, comforting dish that’s both elegant and hearty. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a velvety sauce made from Parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes, it’s a recipe designed to impress. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner or a satisfying family meal, this dish offers love at first bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and flavorful with a rich Parmesan finish

• Quick and easy—ready in about 30 minutes

• Uses simple ingredients with a gourmet result

• Great for special occasions or everyday dinners

• Easily customizable with your favorite add-ins

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

• Olive oil

• Salt and black pepper

• Garlic, minced

• Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

• Chicken broth

• Heavy cream

• Grated Parmesan cheese

• Italian seasoning

• Red pepper flakes (optional)

• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté until browned and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1–2 minutes.

4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using.

5. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if needed.

6. Return cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Add the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated in the sauce.

7. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini

• Spicy: Increase red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce

• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or light cream instead of heavy cream

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs

• Cheesy Twist: Add shredded mozzarella or fontina for extra creaminess

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce. Microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like fusilli, rotini, or farfalle works well.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, light cream, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Thighs are flavorful and remain juicy, making them a great substitute.

How do I keep the sauce from becoming too thick?

Use reserved pasta water or a bit of extra broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Try roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes for a different flavor.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Cream-based sauces do not freeze well and may separate, so it’s best to refrigerate and consume within a few days.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes. Spinach, peas, broccoli, or bell peppers all make great additions.

How do I enhance the flavor?

Use freshly grated Parmesan, and don’t skip the garlic and basil—they make a big difference.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Reheat and combine with fresh pasta when ready to serve.

What sides go well with this dish?

Serve with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Rich Parmesan Flavor is the perfect blend of creamy comfort and bold flavor. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests. The creamy sauce, savory chicken, and depth of Parmesan create a dish that’s sure to become a favorite on your menu.