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If you’re looking for a dinner that makes hearts skip a beat, try my Ultimate Marry Me Chicken Pasta! This dish combines tender chicken and creamy sauce with fettuccine, bursting with flavor and charm. Impress your loved ones or treat yourself to a cozy meal at home. Dive into this easy recipe, and soon you’ll find yourself planning your next romantic dinner! Let’s get cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Creamy: The heavy cream combined with sun-dried tomatoes creates a rich, indulgent sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
- Flavorful Chicken: Searing the chicken adds a wonderful depth of flavor, ensuring every bite is juicy and satisfying.
- Beautiful Presentation: With vibrant colors from the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, this dish looks as good as it tastes, making it ideal for impressing guests.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Optional Add-Ins
– Red pepper flakes for heat
– Other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms
Ingredient Substitutions
– Alternatives for heavy cream include half-and-half or coconut milk.
When I gather the ingredients for my Ultimate Marry Me Chicken Pasta, I feel excited. Each item plays a key role in making the dish special. The chicken gives a nice protein base. The fettuccine pasta adds a soft texture that hugs the sauce well. Olive oil brings warmth to the chicken as it cooks.
Garlic is a must for flavor. It fills the kitchen with a wonderful aroma. Heavy cream makes everything rich and creamy. Sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet, tangy taste. Fresh spinach not only looks nice but also adds a fresh bite. Italian seasoning ties all these flavors together.
You can adjust the heat with red pepper flakes. If you want more color, add bell peppers or mushrooms. If you’re out of heavy cream, half-and-half or coconut milk will work too. By mixing and matching these ingredients, you can make this dish your own.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s a chance to impress. Use fresh basil as a garnish to make it pop. The vibrant green adds a lovely touch to your plate. Remember, the right ingredients make all the difference!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
– Boil salted water in a large pot.
– Add fettuccine pasta and cook until al dente.
– Drain the pasta and reserve one cup of pasta water.
Preparing the Chicken
– Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
– Make sure to cover all sides for even flavor.
Searing the Chicken
– Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
– Cook the chicken for 6 to 7 minutes on each side.
– Look for a golden brown color and ensure it’s cooked through.
– Let the chicken rest for five minutes before slicing.
Making the Sauce
– In the same skillet, add minced garlic.
– Sauté for about 30 seconds until it smells great.
– Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer.
– Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, stirring until the spinach wilts.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
– Toss the cooked fettuccine into the skillet with the sauce.
– If the sauce looks too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
– Mix well until the pasta is fully coated.
Finishing Touches
– Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until it melts.
– Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.
– Plate the pasta and top with sliced chicken.
– Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a lovely look.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s doneness. Cook it to 165°F.
– For perfectly cooked pasta, boil salted water. Cook until al dente, not mushy.
Presentation Techniques
– Serve the pasta in a large bowl for a stunning look. Twirl the fettuccine for elegance.
– Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of cheese for an appealing finish.
Flavor Enhancements
– Boost flavor with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Add red pepper flakes for heat.
– Consider making homemade sauces or marinades. Use garlic, lemon, or balsamic vinegar for depth.
Pro Tips
- Let the Chicken Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking keeps it juicy and tender.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a cup of pasta water before draining. It helps adjust the sauce’s consistency and adds flavor.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes elevates the dish’s flavors significantly.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning little by little for the best flavor balance.

Variations
Different Pasta Options
You can switch out the fettuccine for other types of pasta. Penne and spaghetti work great. If you need gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Each type brings a new taste and feel. Choose what you love most!
Protein Swaps
Chicken is delicious, but feel free to try other proteins. Shrimp adds a nice seafood twist. Scallops offer a sweet flavor. For a plant-based choice, tofu is perfect. Just make sure to cook them right for the best taste.
Healthier Versions
To make this dish lighter, use low-fat cream instead of heavy cream. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. This way, you keep the flavor but cut down on fat. It’s a win-win!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Ultimate Marry Me Chicken Pasta fresh, place leftovers in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure the pasta cools down before sealing it. This helps prevent moisture buildup. Label the container with the date you made it. This way, you know when to eat it.
Reheating Instructions
Reheating pasta can be tricky. I recommend using a skillet for the best results. Heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the pasta and a splash of cream or broth. Stir often until hot. This method keeps the pasta creamy and prevents it from drying out. You can also microwave it in a bowl with a bit of water. Cover it to trap steam and heat for one minute. Stir, then heat for another minute if needed.
Freezing Tips
If you want to freeze the dish, do it before adding the cheese. Store the pasta and sauce together in freezer-safe bags. Squeeze out the air to avoid freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, heat it on the stove, adding fresh cheese. This makes the dish taste fresh and delicious, just like the first time!
FAQs
How do I make the best Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
To make the best Marry Me Chicken Pasta, start with fresh ingredients. Use high-quality chicken and pasta. Season your chicken well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This adds great flavor. Sear the chicken until golden brown. This gives it a nice crust. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Cook the pasta just right, so it’s al dente. It should have a slight bite. Finally, mix the pasta with a creamy sauce made from heavy cream, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach. Stir in the Parmesan for richness. This combo creates a dish that tastes divine.
Can I prepare Marry Me Chicken Pasta in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Marry Me Chicken Pasta in advance. Cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge. You can also make the sauce ahead. Just reheat everything together before serving. This saves time for busy nights. Aim to eat it within three days for best taste. If you want to save even more time, you can chop the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach in advance. This way, you have everything ready to go.
What should I serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Marry Me Chicken Pasta pairs well with many side dishes. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette works great. Garlic bread is also a nice touch. You can add roasted vegetables for extra flavor and color. For wine, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish well. The fresh flavors balance the creamy sauce. You can also try a light red wine, like Pinot Noir, if you prefer.
Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta suitable for special diets?
Marry Me Chicken Pasta can fit some special diets with a few changes. For a keto option, use zucchini noodles instead of pasta. You can also skip the heavy cream for a dairy-free version. Use coconut milk instead. If you want it vegetarian, replace chicken with firm tofu or grilled veggies. This keeps the dish tasty and satisfying. Always check individual ingredient labels for any hidden allergens.
You now have all you need to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta. We covered key ingredients, from chicken and fettuccine to flavorful seasonings. I shared step-by-step instructions for cooking and tips for the best results. You learned variations and how to store leftovers too.
This dish is perfect for impressing someone special or as a comforting meal. With a little creativity, you can make it your own. Enjoy crafting this delicious recipe, and savor every bit
Ultimate Marry Me Chicken Pasta ❤️🍝
A delicious and creamy pasta dish featuring chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 600 kcal
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- to taste salt and pepper
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- for garnish fresh basil leaves
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, stirring until the spinach wilts.
Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat pasta in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Plate the pasta and top with the sliced chicken. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch.
Serve the pasta in a large bowl, twirling the fettuccine for an elegant look, and drizzle with a little extra cream sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh basil for a beautiful presentation.
Keyword chicken, creamy, Italian, pasta
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