Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

This Pasta Chicken Recipe Might Just Win You a Marriage Proposal

I didn’t name it — but honestly, it kinda lives up to the hype.

This easy marry me chicken pasta recipe is one of those dishes that makes people stop mid-bite and go, “Wait, what’s in this?”
It’s creamy. It’s tangy. It’s a little smoky, a little herby, and it all clings perfectly to a bowl of penne like it was meant to be together. Kind of like you and your favorite fork.

If you’re looking for a no-fuss pasta chicken recipe that tastes like it came from a restaurant (without the restaurant bill), this one’s for you. Especially if you’re cooking for family, date night, or just need to impress someone who thinks toast is a food group.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

This is the kind of meal that feels fancy but cooks fast.
It’s great for a weeknight but totally holds its own for Sunday dinner or when you need a “Wow, you made this?!” kind of moment.

Here’s what makes it special:

• The creamy sun-dried tomato sauce is out-of-this-world good.
• You use bite-sized chicken pieces, so they cook quickly and evenly.
• It’s rich, cheesy, and a little smoky, thanks to paprika and parmesan.
• You only need one big skillet and one pot — less cleanup, more pasta joy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Alright, let’s gather our goodies. Here’s what you’ll need for this creamy pasta chicken recipe:

For the Chicken:

• Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized chunks for fast, even cooking.
• Salt and Pepper – Basic seasoning, but don’t skip it. Layers matter.
• Olive Oil – Helps get that golden sear on the chicken.

For the Pasta:

• Penne Pasta – Holds the sauce beautifully. You can swap in rigatoni or fusilli if needed.

For the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce:

• Butter – Makes the base extra rich and luscious.
• Fresh Garlic – Minced. Go fresh, not jarred, for best flavor.
• Flour – Just a spoonful to help thicken the sauce.
• Chicken Broth – Adds depth and balances the cream.
• Heavy Cream – Gives that signature creamy texture. You can use half-and-half for a lighter option.
• Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated, if possible. Melts like a dream.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – The star of the show. Tangy, chewy, and full of flavor.
• Paprika – For a little warmth and smokiness.
• Italian Seasoning – A cozy blend of oregano, thyme, and basil.
• Fresh Basil – Optional, but highly recommended for topping. It makes the whole dish pop.

How to Make This Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Let’s break it down step by step so you can feel totally chill while you cook:

1. Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook your penne according to the package directions until al dente. Drain it and save about 1/2 cup of that pasta water for later. Trust me — it helps.

2. Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear it until golden and cooked through — about 4–5 minutes. Remove it from the pan and set it aside.

3. Start the Sauce

In the same pan, lower the heat and melt the butter. Add your garlic and stir it around for about 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t burn it!). Sprinkle in the flour and whisk it to make a quick roux — it’ll look pastey and bubbly.

4. Make it Creamy

Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking to avoid lumps. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened, then stir in the heavy cream, parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Stir and let it gently simmer until it thickens to your liking.

5. Finish and Combine

Toss in the cooked chicken and drained pasta. Stir it all together until every piece is coated in that dreamy sauce. If it looks too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.

Top it off with freshly chopped basil and an extra sprinkle of cheese. Taste it, and try not to propose to yourself.