Rich Creamy Marry Me Chicken

This rich creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a truly indulgent dish that brings together tender chicken and a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce. It’s the kind of meal that feels special whether you’re treating yourself on a quiet night or impressing guests at a dinner party.

I first made this to surprise a loved one and found it quickly became a favorite in my recipe rotation because of its rich sauce and satisfying pasta.

Ingredients You Need

• Chicken breasts: provide juicy protein that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce. Choose fresh, firm chicken for best results.
• Olive oil and unsalted butter: create a flavorful base with richness and a silky finish.
• Garlic powder and onion powder: build savory depth without overpowering the main ingredients.
• Italian seasoning: adds herbal notes that harmonize the cream and tomatoes beautifully.
• Chicken broth and heavy cream: form the velvety sauce that coats every bite. Opt for good quality broth for full flavor.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: bring a sweet tangy punch that cuts through the creaminess.
• Parmesan cheese: enriches the sauce and enhances the savory profile. Freshly grated Parmesan is always preferred.
• Farfalle or bowtie pasta: offers a fun and sturdy shape that holds the sauce well.
• Fresh basil leaves: add a bright contrast and fresh aroma as garnish.
• Red pepper flakes: can be added for a touch of heat depending on your preference.

Detailed Cooking Directions

Season The Chicken:

Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts for a flavorful crust.

Sear The Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until they reach a golden brown and are cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Build The Sauce Base:

Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, sauté the chopped sun-dried tomatoes for 1 to 2 minutes to unlock their rich flavor.

Simmer The Cream Sauce:

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow it to gently simmer and thicken.

Incorporate Parmesan Cheese:

Stir in the grated Parmesan until the sauce is smooth and velvety.

Cook The Pasta:

Boil farfalle pasta in salted water following package directions. Drain well and set aside.

Combine Chicken With Sauce:

Slice cooked chicken into strips and return to the skillet with sauce. Let everything simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes.

Toss Pasta In Sauce:

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly, ensuring every piece is coated in creamy sauce.

Garnish And Serve:

Top with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately for the best experience.

This recipe holds a special place in my kitchen thanks to the sun-dried tomatoes which give an unexpected burst of flavor. I remember making it for a family reunion and how the hearty pasta disappeared within minutes.

Smart Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess.

Ingredient Variations

Swap chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier, richer texture Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version Add mushrooms or fresh spinach to infuse more earthiness and color

Perfect Pairing Ideas

A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness nicely Serve alongside garlic bread for an extra comforting meal A chilled glass of Chardonnay complements the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce beautifully

This dish always feels like a warm hug on a plate and makes any day feel a little more special when served. Just a little love and attention to the sauce texture turns this recipe into an unforgettable meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What pasta works best with this dish?

Bowtie (farfalle) pasta is ideal as its shape holds the creamy sauce well, but penne or fusilli are also great alternatives.

→ Can I substitute heavy cream for a lighter option?

Yes, half-and-half can be used for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich and slightly thinner in texture.

→ How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy and tender?

Season the chicken well and sear over medium-high heat until golden brown but avoid overcooking by removing it promptly once cooked through.

→ What can I add to boost the vegetable content?

Adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini during the sauce step adds nutrients and complements the creamy flavors nicely.

→ Does this dish have a spicy element?

Red pepper flakes can be added at the end to introduce a subtle heat, adjustable according to personal preference.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the creamy sauce texture.