Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 2 reviews

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish featuring tender bite-sized pieces of chicken cooked in a rich parmesan-infused sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning, served over perfectly cooked penne pasta. This quick 30-minute meal blends savory flavors with a touch of spice, garnished with fresh basil for a delightful finish.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 teaspoons garlic, minced

Pasta

  • 10 ounces penne pasta

Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
  • salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

  • fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • additional parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Boil the 10 ounces penne pasta as instructed on the package until al dente. Drain well and set aside while preparing the chicken and sauce.
  2. Prepare Chicken: Cut the boneless skinless chicken into 1-inch pieces, season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper evenly.
  3. Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes until no longer pink and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and keep warm.
  4. Make Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Stir in 3 tablespoons flour to form a smooth roux paste.
  5. Add Liquids and Cheese: Gradually whisk in 2 cups chicken broth, then 1 cup heavy cream and 1 cup grated parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
  6. Incorporate Flavorings: Stir in the drained sun-dried tomatoes, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper seasoning as needed.
  7. Simmer Sauce: Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes to thicken and develop flavors.
  8. Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce, followed by the cooked penne. Stir thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly in the creamy sauce.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil leaves and additional parmesan cheese over the dish before serving. Enjoy warm.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for best flavor and texture.
  • Sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet and tangy depth—drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
  • Can substitute penne pasta with other short pasta types like rigatoni or farfalle.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use less butter.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American