Description
Creamy, rich, and packed with bold flavor, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a swoon-worthy dish that’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough for date nights. Tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and pasta are tossed in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce that’s so good, it might just earn you a marriage proposal!
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Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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2 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce and Pasta:
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8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed and drained)
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup chicken broth
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½ cup grated parmesan cheese
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
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1 cup baby spinach (optional)
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Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
Optional Add-ins:
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Mushrooms, sautéed
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Extra parmesan for topping
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Lemon zest for brightness
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup pasta water.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Season chicken with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium.
Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes; sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Add parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
Simmer for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Finish the Dish
Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
Slice the chicken and add it back into the skillet.
Stir in baby spinach if using and cook just until wilted.
If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with chopped fresh basil and extra parmesan.
Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
Pound the Chicken Evenly – Ensures quick and even cooking.
Use Good Parmesan – Freshly grated cheese melts better into the sauce.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Aim for al dente to keep the texture perfect.
Reserve Pasta Water – A splash can help thin and smooth the sauce if needed.
Taste and Adjust – Always taste your sauce and tweak seasoning before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired