Why Is It Called "Marry Me Chicken Pasta"?

The name “Marry Me Chicken” comes from the idea that the dish is so irresistibly delicious, it could inspire a marriage proposal! Its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and comforting flavors are designed to win over hearts and make any meal unforgettable. Whether or not it leads to a proposal, it’s guaranteed to impress your loved ones.

What to Serve with a Marry Me Chicken Recipe?

While Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a complete meal on its own, you can elevate it by serving it with complementary sides: Vegetables : Roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a simple mixed green salad. Bread : Crusty garlic bread or soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. Drinks : Pair it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red wine such as Pinot Noir.

Can You Add Raw Chicken to Pasta Sauce?

While it’s technically possible to cook raw chicken directly in the sauce, it’s not recommended for this recipe. Searing the chicken first ensures that it develops a golden-brown crust and locks in its juices, adding more flavor to the dish. If you prefer to cook the chicken in the sauce, make sure it’s cut into smaller pieces and cooked thoroughly to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Where Does Marry Me Chicken Come From?

The origins of Marry Me Chicken are a bit unclear, but it’s believed to have been inspired by traditional Italian dishes featuring creamy sauces, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. The dish gained widespread popularity on social media platforms, where its quirky name and irresistible flavors made it a viral sensation.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe: Creamy, Easy, and Irresistibly Delicious

Name: Irresistible Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe: A Creamy, Flavorful Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat); 1/2 cup chicken stock or broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed preferred); 10 ounces pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne); 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (optional, for adjusting sauce consistency); Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Description

This creamy, flavorful Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. With tender chicken, a luxurious cream sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes, this dish has earned its romantic name for a reason it’s so good, it might inspire a proposal! Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

2 large chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1/2 cup chicken stock or broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed preferred)
10 ounces pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
1/4 cup reserved pasta water (optional, for adjusting sauce consistency)
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Cook the Aromatics:
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Deglaze and Start Sauce:
- Pour in chicken stock, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Cook the Pasta:
- Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining.
Combine and Finish:
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and seared chicken to the sauce. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Toss in cooked pasta, coating evenly with sauce. Add reserved pasta water, if needed, to achieve desired consistency.
Serve:
- Plate pasta with chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 servings