This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich, creamy, and indulgent dish that’s so delicious, it might just inspire someone to propose! With tender chicken breasts smothered in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce and tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is pure comfort food at its finest. Perfect for date night, special occasions, or when you’re craving something decadent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Restaurant-Quality: A luxurious dish that feels fancy but is easy to make at home.
- Creamy & Flavorful: The Parmesan cream sauce is rich, garlicky, and utterly irresistible.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor payoff.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 🍗
- Salt and pepper , to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil 🫒
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter 🧈
- 4 cloves garlic , minced 🧄
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream 🥛
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat )
- 8 ounces penne pasta , cooked according to package instructions 🍝
- Chopped fresh parsley , for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken 🔥
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5–6 minutes per side , or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C ). Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic 🧄
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter .
- Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds–1 minute , until fragrant but not browned.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce 🥛
- Pour in the chicken broth , scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to release extra flavor. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream , grated Parmesan cheese , Italian seasoning , and red pepper flakes (if using ). Whisk until the sauce is smooth and the cheese is fully melted.
- Simmer the sauce for 3–4 minutes , stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper , if needed.
Step 4: Combine Everything 🍝
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Let them heat through for 1–2 minutes .
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat the pasta in the sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve 🍴
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese on top, if desired. Pair with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success:
- Add Veggies: Stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make It Spicier: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze Option: Freeze portions of the chicken and sauce (without pasta) in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 4):
- Calories: ~550
- Protein: ~35g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Fat: ~30g
Enjoy this Marry Me Chicken Pasta as a decadent, comforting dish that’s perfect for impressing your loved ones—or treating yourself. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something indulgent, this recipe is sure to win hearts!