Why You’ll Love Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
This recipe is creamy, flavorful, and ready in just 35 minutes. The sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet, tangy richness, while the parmesan and cream create a smooth sauce that coats every piece of pasta. It uses simple ingredients and feels restaurant-worthy without being complicated.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
8 oz (225g) rigatoni or penne pasta
2 chicken breasts, diced
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 shallot, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
2 cups spinach leaves
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, optional
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions
Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the shallot and garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
Add the tomato paste and dried oregano, then stir until combined.
Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until slightly softened.
Pour in the reserved pasta water and heavy cream. Stir in the parmesan cheese and let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, until slightly thickened.
Add the spinach and cook for about 1 minute, until wilted.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir into the sauce. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta and toss until well coated. Add extra pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 2 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
Use penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle for this recipe. You can swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier texture. Add mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or extra spinach for more vegetables. For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes. For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk, cream, or pasta water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each one. Freezing is not recommended because the cream sauce may separate after thawing.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne, rigatoni, fusilli, farfalle, or any short pasta shape works well.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, but it tastes best fresh. If making ahead, store the pasta and sauce together and reheat gently with a splash of liquid.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well and add a richer flavor.
Can I make this pasta less spicy?
Yes, simply leave out the red pepper flakes.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, mushrooms, bell peppers, peas, kale, or extra spinach all work nicely.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be lighter and less creamy.
Why should I reserve pasta water?
Pasta water helps loosen the sauce and makes it cling better to the pasta.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
Fresh tomatoes can be used, but sun-dried tomatoes give the dish its signature rich, tangy flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
The chicken should be browned on the outside and fully cooked through with no pink in the center.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, double all ingredients and use a large skillet or pan so everything mixes evenly.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that comes together quickly with simple ingredients. With tender chicken, pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and parmesan cream sauce, it is a delicious recipe for both busy weeknights and special dinners.
