Name: Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 650 g (1.4 lb) Boneless & skinless chicken breast, about 4 breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tbsp Olive oil; 3 Garlic cloves, peeled and crushed; 170 g (6 oz) Sun dried tomatoes, drained and very finely chopped; 1 tsp Oregano; 2 tsp Paprika; 250 g (9 oz) Dried pasta; 650 ml (2.75 cups) Chicken stock; 150 ml (0.75 cups) Double cream; 120 g (4 oz) Spinach; 50 g (2 oz) Parmesan, grated; Freshly ground black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 1 review

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is here to steal your heart. This one-pan wonder is creamy, dreamy, and packed with sun-dried tomatoes, tender chicken, and a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to every bite of pasta. Ready in just about 30 minutes, it’s a simple yet stunning meal that transforms an ordinary weeknight into something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, this recipe is guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white pan with a light wooden handle is filled with pieces of cooked chicken. The chicken pieces are light beige with slight brown grill marks on the surface, showing they are cooked but not browned fully. The pieces vary in size and are unevenly shaped, filling the pan almost to the top. The pan sits on a white marbled surface, creating a clean and bright background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that work in harmony to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. Each item is essential to creating that rich, satisfying taste and creamy finish that makes this pasta irresistible.

650 g Boneless & skinless chicken breast: Tender bite-sized pieces that soak up all the spices and creamy sauce perfectly.
1 tbsp Olive oil: Use a good quality oil to gently brown the chicken and develop depth of flavor.
3 Garlic cloves, peeled and crushed: Adds a fragrant punch that wakes up the whole dish.
170 g Sun dried tomatoes, drained and finely chopped: Concentrated sweetness and chewy texture to complement the creaminess.
1 tsp Oregano: Earthy herb that brings a Mediterranean warmth to the recipe.
2 tsp Paprika: Gives a subtle smoky note and a beautiful color to the sauce.
250 g Dried pasta: Any shape you love, though penne or rigatoni work wonderfully to hold the sauce.
650 ml Chicken stock: The flavorful liquid base that cooks the pasta and infuses the dish.
150 ml Double cream: For that signature velvety sauce that makes this recipe ultra comforting.
50 g Parmesan, grated: Adds a salty, nutty finish that lifts the entire dish.
120 g Spinach: Fresh greenery that wilts into the sauce, adding freshness and color.
Freshly ground black pepper: To taste, it brings just the right amount of spice and balance.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in a large, deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers with warmth, add the chicken pieces dusted with freshly ground black pepper. Cook them for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until every side gets that gorgeous golden color. This step is crucial for building a flavorful base that will carry the entire dish.

Step 2: Build the Flavor with Aromatics and Herbs

Lower the heat to gently coax out the flavors without burning. Add crushed garlic, finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and paprika to the pan. Stir everything together, letting the garlic soften and release its aroma. This meld of ingredients crafts the signature flavor that defines the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe.

Step 3: Add Pasta and Stock, Then Simmer

Next, pour in your dried pasta and chicken stock. Stir well to combine, making sure the pasta is submerged in the flavorful liquid. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer on medium-low heat. Stir occasionally for about 15 to 20 minutes until the pasta has absorbed most of the stock and is tender texture-wise. This step not only cooks the pasta but integrates it with the sauce and chicken in one pot.

Step 4: Finish with Cream, Spinach, and Parmesan

Turn the heat down to its lowest setting and stir in fresh spinach and double cream. Continue stirring for a couple of minutes as the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens into the cherished creamy consistency. Taste to check if the chicken is thoroughly cooked and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if desired. Finally, switch off the heat and fold in the grated Parmesan, allowing its nuttiness to melt into the sauce.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

A round white pan filled with a creamy pasta dish made of elbow macaroni coated in a light orange sauce. Scattered through the pasta are pieces of light brown cooked chicken and dark green spinach leaves, giving a mix of colors and textures. Some small pieces of what looks like red sun-dried tomatoes add a slight red touch, all stirred together with a wooden spoon resting on the pan's right side. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkling a little extra grated Parmesan over the top or scattering some fresh basil or parsley leaves instantly elevates the presentation and adds bursts of fresh herbal flavor. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving gives a glossy, inviting finish to this hearty dish.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for contrast or some warm garlic bread to scoop up every last drop of the sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers offer a vibrant, nutritious complement without overpowering the main flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe in rustic wide bowls to showcase its creamy sauce and colorful ingredients. For a bit of fun, try serving it alongside mini herb-infused crostini or in shallow ramekins for individual portions — perfect for a cozy dinner party or date night.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen over time, making it just as delightful, if not more so, when reheated gently.

Freezing

If you want to stash some away for a busy day, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Keep in mind that the spinach might lose a bit of its texture, but the creamy sauce and chicken will remain scrumptious.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Stir occasionally to keep the chicken tender and the sauce silky smooth.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne or rigatoni are ideal because they hold the sauce well, feel free to experiment with fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can replace the double cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. The flavor will differ slightly but still remain delicious and creamy.

Can I prepare this dish in advance for a dinner party?

Definitely. You can cook most of the dish ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Add fresh spinach and Parmesan just before serving to keep the vibrant colors and fresh taste intact.

What’s the best way to ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and not overcooking it is key. Cooking on medium heat until golden and simmering gently with the sauce helps keep it tender and moist.

Can I add other vegetables to the pasta?

Yes, feel free to toss in mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to add more texture and nutrition. Just add them during the simmering step so they cook through properly.

Final Thoughts

The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is one of those delightful dishes that combines simplicity with a touch of elegance, making it perfect for any day of the week. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant flavors will win over your taste buds and maybe even inspire some extra smiles around the dinner table. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a cherished favorite in your recipe collection!