Marry Me Chicken Pasta That Totally Swept Me Off My Feet

because girl… sometimes your stomach knows you’re ready for love before your heart does

OK so let me set the scene for you: it was one of those days. You know, the kind where everything feels kinda meh, your playlist is on shuffle chaos mode, and you open the fridge like, “Surprise me, babe.” I had no plans to cook — I was actually considering eating cereal out of a mug on the couch — but then I saw some leftover chicken breasts and a lonely little half-jar of sun-dried tomatoes just giving me eyes.

And in that exact moment, I remembered Marry Me Chicken — you know, that creamy dreamy TikTok-famous thing? But I didn’t want to make it with rice or bread or whatever. I needed pasta. I needed carbs. I needed comfort with a capital “C.” So boom. Marry Me Chicken Pasta was born. No ring required.

And babe… the moment I took that first creamy, tangy, garlicky bite? I knew I had to share this one with you.

Why I Keep Coming Back to This Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This isn’t just pasta, honey — it’s a whole mood. I swear every time I make it, I end up dancing in the kitchen with my fork like I’m starring in a cheesy rom-com. I made it once for my bestie who was going through a breakup, and she literally asked for the recipe before she finished her bowl. We both agreed it tastes like a warm hug and a love letter had a baby.

I even made it once after a kitchen fail where I burned a batch of garlic bread (we don’t talk about that night), and this pasta totally saved the vibe. That’s how iconic she is.

What You’ll Need (your grocery love list)

Here’s what you’ll need to make your stomach fall in love:

2 chicken breasts – sliced into strips (this is the heart of it all, babe)
8 oz pasta – I used penne but honestly, whatever hugs sauce is your bestie
1 tablespoon olive oil – for searing that chicken like a boss
3 garlic cloves, minced – because flavor lives here
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes – non-negotiable. Trust me.
1 cup heavy cream – girl, this is where the magic starts
1/2 cup chicken broth – to balance that richness
1/4 cup grated Parmesan – salty, cheesy perfection
1 teaspoon chili flakes – optional, but if you like a little spice…
Salt & black pepper – always to taste, always with flair

Maria’s Pro Tip: If you’ve only got milk and no cream — simmer it longer with a little butter and say a prayer (it kinda works… I’ve done it on desperate nights).

How to Make My Love-at-First-Bite Pasta

Sizzle That Chicken Like You Mean It

Start by heating olive oil in a big skillet over medium-high heat. Add your chicken, season it with salt and pepper, and sear until golden and juicy. Don’t crowd the pan — give those babies room to brown. (I totally overcrowded once and ended up with steamed sadness. Learn from me, girl.)

Set the chicken aside when it’s cooked and let it rest like the main character it is.

Sauce Up the Drama

In the same skillet (no need to wash it — we’re keeping all that flavor), toss in the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for like 1–2 minutes until it smells like a dream. Then pour in the cream and chicken broth. Stir, stir, stir, and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Add the Parmesan and chili flakes (if you’re feelin’ spicy), and watch it melt into this silky, golden, “marry me now” moment.

Pasta Meets Sauce = True Love

Meanwhile, cook your pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain it and toss it straight into your sauce. Add the chicken back in and let it all simmer together for 2–3 minutes so they really get to know each other.

You’ll know it’s ready when everything looks glossy, creamy, and like it came from a \$24 dish at a bougie café.

Maria’s Tricks That Take It Next-Level

Sear with confidence: A golden sear adds depth. Don’t touch the chicken for the first minute — let it crust up.
Finish with fresh basil or parsley: It brightens the whole thing and makes it look extra date-night worthy.
Add a squeeze of lemon at the end: Sounds weird but girl, it makes the whole thing pop.
Make it ahead: This reheats like a dream. Add a splash of broth or cream when warming to bring it back to life.

FAQ (Stuff I Learned the Messy Way)

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh?

Absolutely. I’ve done it when I was way too tired. Just toss it into the sauce to warm up — still delicious.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

Listen, it’s not the same, but chopped cherry tomatoes can work in a pinch. Just roast them a bit first. I tried it once and lived to tell the tale.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Girl… I’ve tried with coconut milk and vegan cheese. It’s not the same, but it’s still creamy-ish. Add garlic and nutritional yeast to boost the flavor.

How long will leftovers last?

Three days max in the fridge — but good luck making it last that long. I always find myself sneaking bites cold with a fork.

Can I add veggies?

Yes queen! Spinach wilts in perfectly. I once tossed in leftover broccoli and it was a moment.

Final Thoughts from Maria (and her messy kitchen)

OK babe, if you’re still reading this — first of all, thank you for hanging out in my kitchen with me. This recipe? It’s more than pasta. It’s comfort, it’s healing, and maybe… just maybe… it’s proposal-worthy.

Whether you’re feeding your partner, your bestie, or just your tired self after a long day — this dish has got your back. Feel free to tweak it, make it yours, and don’t forget to dance a little while it simmers.

Until the next mess, stay delicious.
With love,
Maria