This creamy, dreamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the viral sensation that actually lives up to the hype. Loaded with sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan, and juicy chicken, all tossed in a luscious sauce that clings to every curve of penne pasta—it's a weeknight dinner that tastes like a romantic night out.
1 ½poundsboneless skinless chickencut into 1-inch pieces
10ouncespenne pasta
½teaspoonsalt
¼teaspoonblack pepper
1tablespoonolive oil
Sauce
3tablespoonsbutterunsalted
2teaspoonsgarlicminced
3tablespoonsflour
2cupschicken broth
1cupheavy cream
1cupparmesan cheesegrated
1teaspoonpaprika
2teaspoonsItalian seasoningdried
1cupsun-dried tomatoesdrained (Optional)
fresh basilfor garnish
Instructions
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in flour to form a paste and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir until smooth. Add parmesan and stir until melted.
Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Return chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the sauce.
Garnish with chopped fresh basil and extra parmesan if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
Use fresh grated parmesan for best melting and flavor.
Don’t overcook the chicken—165°F is ideal.
Save some pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
Let the sauce simmer gently for best results.
Finish with fresh basil for a burst of aroma and contrast.