Name: Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts (boneless, skinless); 8 oz penne pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled; Salt and pepper, to taste; Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavor, this Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is everything you want in a comforting pasta dish. Juicy, seared chicken breast meets a velvety sun-dried tomato cream sauce, wrapped around perfectly cooked penne, all finished with crispy bacon bits and fresh herbs. This dish is indulgent, soul-warming, and perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.

What makes this pasta truly magical is the way the flavors marry together—hence the name! A balance of garlic, Italian seasoning, a touch of heat, and the luxurious cream sauce makes each bite irresistible. If you’re looking for a meal that makes a statement, this is it.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

One-skillet wonder: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
Date-night approved: It’s elegant enough for a romantic dinner but easy enough for weeknights.
Bacon AND cream sauce: Enough said.
Customizable: Swap the pasta, adjust spice levels, or make it gluten-free!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To nail this Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta, having the right tools makes a big difference:

Large skillet or sauté pan: A wide surface helps sear the chicken perfectly and simmer the sauce evenly.
Sharp chef’s knife: For precise slicing of the chicken and chopping herbs.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.
Pasta pot with strainer insert: Makes draining pasta mess-free.
Meat thermometer: Optional but helpful to ensure your chicken is cooked just right (165°F internal temp).

Prep your ingredients ahead—dice your sun-dried tomatoes, shred the Parmesan, and mince your garlic—so everything flows smoothly once the heat is on.

Ingredients for the Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide the perfect protein base with a juicy bite.
Penne pasta: Holds the creamy sauce beautifully in every ridge.
Sun-dried tomatoes: Bring a rich, slightly tangy depth that cuts through the cream.
Garlic: Freshly minced for robust flavor that infuses the sauce.
Heavy cream: The base of our luscious, velvety sauce.
Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and prevents the sauce from becoming too thick.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for a nutty, salty finish.
Red pepper flakes: Optional, but adds a subtle kick that balances the richness.
Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs that brings warmth and complexity.
Olive oil and butter: Used to sear the chicken and build a flavorful base.
Bacon: Crispy bits sprinkled over top for crunch and smokiness.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every component.

How To Make the Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high. Sear the chicken until golden brown on each side (about 4–5 minutes per side), then remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook until fragrant and softened, about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Create the Cream Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any bits stuck to the pan. Add the heavy cream and stir well. Sprinkle in red pepper flakes and remaining Italian seasoning. Simmer gently for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Return Chicken to Pan

Add the seared chicken back into the skillet. Spoon some sauce over the top, cover, and let simmer on low for 10–12 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 5: Boil the Pasta

While the chicken simmers, cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Remove the chicken and slice it. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, stir in Parmesan cheese, then add the chicken slices back in. Top with crispy bacon bits and chopped parsley. Serve hot!

Serving and Storing Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This pasta is best served hot, straight from the skillet, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan. Pair it with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving too long, as the cream sauce can separate.

Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which may alter in texture when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and stay juicy. Just adjust cooking time as they may take slightly longer.

What pasta shapes work besides penne?

Rotini, rigatoni, or fettuccine are great alternatives. Use what you have on hand, just aim for a pasta that holds sauce well.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level is mild with just a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can skip it or double it, depending on your heat preference.

Can I make this dish ahead?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time. Store separately from the pasta and combine when reheating for best texture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can substitute gluten-free pasta and check your chicken broth and seasoning blends for hidden gluten.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk can work in a pinch, though the texture and flavor will differ slightly.

Want More Creamy Chicken Dinners?

If you love this Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta, check out these other satisfying meals:

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