
One sunny afternoon, I decided to surprise my family with a dish that had all the potential to become a family favorite: Marry Me Chicken Pasta. The aroma of tender chicken simmering in a creamy sauce, combined with perfectly cooked pasta, wafted through the house.
As I plated the dish, the excitement on my kids’ faces was priceless. With its rich flavors and delightful presentation, this recipe quickly became a beloved staple at our dinner table. If you’re looking for a meal that will impress your loved ones, look no further!
Why Is My Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe Unique?

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe takes a classic dish and elevates it with a touch of romance and richness. The tender chicken thighs, combined with al dente pasta and a luscious creamy garlic sauce, create a perfect harmony of flavors.
I add a hint of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach to give it that extra burst of flavor and nutrition, making it stand out from traditional chicken pasta recipes. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, making clean-up a breeze—perfect for busy moms like me!
Ingredients List For Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
To make this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Pasta:
- 8 oz penne or bow tie pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Substitutions and Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences:
- Chicken: Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner cut. You can also use grilled chicken for added flavor.
- Pasta: While I love using penne or bow tie pasta, any pasta shape will work, including spaghetti or fusilli.
- Cream: For a healthier option, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream.
- Vegetables: Add other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can be used instead of basil for a different flavor profile.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- In the same skillet, add the pasta and enough water to cover it. Bring to a boil and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Return the chicken to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until everything is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the Marry Me Chicken Pasta warm, garnished with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing Marry Me Chicken Pasta

- Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken thighs can dry out if cooked too long. Aim for a juicy finish by checking for doneness at 165°F (75°C).
- Undercooking the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente. It will continue cooking when added to the sauce.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to season the chicken well! This adds depth of flavor to the entire dish.
- Not Allowing the Sauce to Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer to blend the flavors well; rushing this step can result in a less flavorful dish.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Serving and Presentation Tips
To elevate the presentation of your Marry Me Chicken Pasta, consider these tips:
- Garnish Generously: Add fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for a beautiful touch.
- Serve in Style: Use a large pasta bowl for a family-style serving, or plate individual servings for a more refined approach.
- Add Color: Include a side salad with colorful veggies or serve with roasted vegetables for added nutrition and visual appeal.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light green salad or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a more filling meal, serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, also complements the flavors beautifully.
Extra Recipe Tips For Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to eat.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta to maintain texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes! You can make Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot Pasta by cooking the chicken and sauce in the slow cooker and then mixing it with the pasta when ready to serve.
2. Is there a healthier version of this dish?
Absolutely! You can make a Healthy Marry Me Chicken Pasta by using whole wheat pasta, reducing the cream, or substituting with Greek yogurt for a creamy texture.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! For a Marry Me Pasta Vegetarian option, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth.
4. What type of pasta works best?
While penne and bow tie pasta are great choices, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli or spaghetti.
Final Thoughts
I encourage you to try this Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe at your next family gathering or date night in. It’s an easy, impressive dish that promises delicious flavors and will have everyone coming back for seconds. You’ll create cherished memories around the dinner table with this meal. Trust me—once you make it, you might just get that “marry me” question from your loved ones!
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe: A Dish to Fall in Love With!
4
servings10
minutes25
minutes300
kcalDiscover the delicious Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds! It’s creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-easy to make.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
8 oz penne or bow tie pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups fresh spinach
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil, for garnish
Directions
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot, add a pinch of salt, and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Step 3: Prepare the Sauce :In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Step 4: Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
- Step 5: Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and add the drained pasta and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Adjust seasoning as necessary.
- Step 6: Serve and Garnish: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- -Include substitutions and variations, serving suggestions, and storage tips.