The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Name: The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh parsley, chopped; Extra Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Discover the delightful flavors of The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta, a dish that's sure to impress your loved ones and make every meal feel special.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-10T14:58:21.030Z

This pasta dish combines succulent chicken breasts with a creamy, savory sauce that makes it a favorite for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy sauce that envelops the pasta beautifully
Juicy chicken that adds protein and flavor
Perfect for date nights or family gatherings

      

A Perfect Blend of Flavors

The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a culinary masterpiece that combines rich and creamy elements with savory chicken. The sauce, made from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, creates a luxurious coating that clings to each piece of pasta. This dish is designed to impress, making it an ideal choice for romantic dinners or special family gatherings.

The subtle kick from the red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of warmth, enhancing the overall flavor profile without overwhelming the palate. Each bite is a delightful experience, where the creaminess of the sauce meets the juicy tenderness of the chicken, making it a dish that everyone will rave about.

Quick and Easy Preparation

Despite its restaurant-quality taste, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta is surprisingly simple to prepare. With just a few key ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have this delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.

The recipe allows for flexibility as well; you can easily substitute different types of pasta or proteins based on your family's preferences. This adaptability ensures that you can enjoy this dish time and time again, tailoring it to your tastes while still capturing the essence of the original recipe.

Making It Your Own

One of the best aspects of The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta is how easy it is to customize. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms to the mix for an added nutritional boost and a pop of color. These additions can enhance the dish further, creating a delightful medley of flavors and textures.

If you prefer a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu. These variations not only keep the dish exciting but also cater to various dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy this comforting meal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

For Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

Remove from skillet and let rest.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add diced onion and sauté until translucent. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for another minute. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking until slightly thickened.

Combine Everything

Slice the chicken and return to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Chicken Pasta!

Tips for the Perfect Chicken

To achieve perfectly cooked chicken, consider using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. This ensures that the chicken remains juicy and flavorful, preventing overcooking that can lead to dryness.

Marinating the chicken in Italian seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking can enhance the flavor even further. This extra step allows the spices to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta.

Serving Suggestions

Serve The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. The bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, while the salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.

For an elegant touch, consider pairing this dish with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity in the wine complements the creaminess of the sauce, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape you like will work well with this recipe.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and combine them with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish.