Marry Me Pasta: Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

If you’re looking for a pasta dish that’s as romantic as it is flavorful, Marry Me Pasta is the perfect choice! This rich and creamy pasta features tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and a beautifully seasoned sauce that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Whether you’re cooking for a special date night or preparing a family dinner, this creamy chicken pasta is a guaranteed winner.

In this article, we’ll walk you through every step of creating Marry Me Pasta, from selecting the right ingredients to achieving the perfect balance of flavors. We’ll also dive into some variations, tips for customizing the dish, and answer any questions you might have. Let’s get cooking!

Why Is It Called “Marry Me Pasta”?

Before diving into the recipe, let’s quickly touch on why this dish is so special. The name “Marry Me Pasta” comes from the idea that the creamy, flavorful sauce is so irresistibly good that it might just inspire a proposal! It’s the perfect blend of rich, comforting flavors that make it a showstopper at the dinner table. Once you taste it, you’ll understand exactly why it has such a passionate name!

Ingredients for Marry Me Pasta

Let’s gather our ingredients! Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious creamy pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) pasta – You can choose from penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine. Each of these will absorb the creamy sauce wonderfully.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – Used to sauté the garlic and onions for that rich base flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is a must in any good pasta sauce for that fragrant kick.
• 1 small onion, finely diced – Sweet, savory onions add a layer of flavor.
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – For a little heat. Adjust to your liking.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional) – Add a burst of freshness and color to the dish.
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream – The base of the creamy sauce that makes everything luxurious and smooth.
• ½ cup chicken broth – Balances the richness of the cream and adds depth.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Essential for that salty, nutty, cheesy goodness.
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped – Adds a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that complements the creaminess.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A fragrant blend of herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil to season the sauce.
• ½ tsp salt – Enhances the flavors.
• ½ tsp black pepper – Adds warmth and depth.
• 1 lb cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded – Adds protein and makes this dish hearty.
• ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped – A fresh garnish to finish off the dish.

Instructions: How to Make Marry Me Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and set it aside. Be sure to save a bit of pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed!

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

While your pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic, diced onion, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Sauté the mixture for about 2-3 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and the onions are softened.

If you’re adding cherry tomatoes, now’s the time to stir them in and cook until they’re softened. These will give your sauce a fresh burst of flavor.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Base

Next, pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir the mixture together and let it come to a simmer. Add in the Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir continuously, allowing the sauce to thicken for about 5 minutes. The goal is to create a smooth, creamy sauce that will coat your pasta beautifully.

Step 4: Add the Chicken & Combine

Add your cooked chicken to the pan and let it heat through for about 2-3 minutes. Once the chicken is warmed, toss in the cooked pasta, stirring gently to ensure that every piece of pasta is coated with the luscious creamy sauce.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Finally, garnish your Marry Me Pasta with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve the pasta hot with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top for a cheesy finish.

Serving Suggestions for Marry Me Pasta

While Marry Me Pasta is already a complete meal on its own, there are plenty of ways to enhance the experience:

1. Garlic Bread – Serve with a side of crispy garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.
2. Side Salad – A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the pasta.
3. Wine Pairing – Try pairing this creamy pasta with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, to enhance the flavors.
4. Veggies – Add sautéed spinach, broccoli, or roasted vegetables on the side for added color and nutrition.
5. Extra Protein – For a heartier meal, you can add shrimp or Italian sausage alongside the chicken.

Variations of Marry Me Pasta

While the classic Marry Me Pasta recipe is a fan favorite, there are several ways you can make it your own!

1. Vegetarian Marry Me Pasta

If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. The creamy sauce will still be delicious and indulgent.

2. Spicy Marry Me Pasta

For those who love a little heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a touch of hot sauce to the creamy sauce. This will give your pasta a bold kick that pairs beautifully with the rich creaminess.

3. Marry Me Pasta with Shrimp

Swap out the chicken for shrimp to create a seafood-inspired version of this dish. Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a slightly sweet, briny flavor that works wonderfully with the creamy base.

Tips for Perfecting Your Marry Me Pasta

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: To achieve the perfect texture, cook your pasta just until it’s al dente. This ensures that the pasta doesn’t get mushy once mixed with the sauce.
2. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents, which can affect the texture and flavor of the sauce. Grate your Parmesan fresh for the best results.
3. Customize the Vegetables: If you like a little extra color and flavor, consider adding some roasted bell peppers or zucchini to the mix.
4. Save Pasta Water: Keep a small amount of the pasta cooking water aside in case you need to thin out the sauce.

FAQs About Marry Me Pasta

1. Can I make Marry Me Pasta ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare Marry Me Pasta ahead of time! Cook the pasta and make the sauce separately, then combine everything just before serving. It will still be delicious, but you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to rehydrate the sauce before serving.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe? Absolutely! If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even Mozzarella for a creamier texture. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still be tasty.

3. Is Marry Me Pasta suitable for a gluten-free diet? Yes, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check that all the other ingredients (like the chicken broth) are gluten-free as well.

4. Can I freeze Marry Me Pasta? Yes, you can freeze the sauce and the cooked pasta separately. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the sauce and pasta, and combine them for a quick and easy meal.

5. How can I make this recipe spicier? If you like it spicy, increase the red pepper flakes, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Marry Me Pasta

Marry Me Pasta is more than just a dinner — it’s a flavor-packed experience that’s guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone, a family dinner, or just because you want a delicious meal, this creamy, cheesy pasta will hit the spot every time. The combination of rich Parmesan cheese, savory chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil creates a balance of flavors that’s hard to beat.

Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it’s also versatile. You can adjust it to your tastes, whether that means adding extra spice, changing the vegetables, or swapping in a different protein. Whatever variation you choose, Marry Me Pasta will never disappoint.

Now that you know how to make this creamy, cheesy delight, you’ll have a new favorite recipe to add to your rotation. Give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!

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