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Let me take you back to a chilly Friday night in Oregon when my husband walked in after a long day, looked at his plate, took one bite, and said, “You better not serve this to anyone else, they’ll try to marry you!” That was the first time I made Marry Me Chicken Pasta, and the name couldn’t have been more perfect.
If you’re wondering what all the fuss is about this dish is a creamy, savory, sun-dried tomato dream that wins hearts with every forkful. It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy, but secretly? It’s so simple. One skillet. Some pantry staples. And boom dinner is done in under 40 minutes.
In this post, we’re going deep on the full Marry Me Chicken Pasta experience. You’ll learn:
- What makes this dish so irresistible
- Why penne pasta works beautifully (but isn’t your only option)
- Easy ways to swap ingredients or make it crock-pot friendly
- How to serve it up casserole-style for the holidays
- Tips to get that restaurant-level creamy sauce every single time
Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or just want an easy weeknight win, this recipe has your back. From my busy mom kitchen to yours—let’s make something special tonight.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways: What You Need to Know
- Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy pasta dish with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a parmesan-based sauce, often made with pan-seared chicken breasts or thighs.
- It’s quick to make usually 30–40 minutes from start to finish.
- While penne pasta is a favorite, you can substitute with bowtie, rigatoni, or even spaghetti.
- This dish works great as a crock pot meal or pasta casserole.
- The flavor? Creamy, savory, a little tangy, and deeply comforting like something from a cozy Italian restaurant.
What Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta? (And Why It’s Worth Falling For)
What exactly is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy pasta dish featuring juicy seared chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. It’s called “Marry Me Chicken” because the flavors are so good, the dish is said to be proposal-worthy.
The creamy sauce is rich without being too heavy, thanks to the balance of salty parmesan and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly comforting think of it like Tuscan chicken meets weeknight pasta night.
The pasta often penne or bowtie soaks up the sauce perfectly. And the chicken? Lightly seasoned, pan-seared until golden, and then simmered right in that luscious sauce so it’s packed with flavor.
It’s the kind of meal that looks like you worked all afternoon but really took less than 40 minutes. Trust me, I’ve made it while managing a toddler meltdown and folding laundry between stirs. That’s real-life gourmet, right?
How did it get its name?
The name “Marry Me Chicken” first popped up on the internet around 2016 after a group of editors at a food magazine tried a creamy chicken recipe and someone joked, “If you make this for someone, they’ll want to marry you.” The name stuck.
Soon after, pasta was added to the mix and it took off like wildfire. And if you’re a fan of creamy Tuscan chicken pasta, you’re going to love this twist.
Want to try another variation? My Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a delicious cousin to this dish.
Why is Marry Me Chicken Pasta so popular?
It’s easy, fast, and tastes like you ordered it from your favorite Italian place. That’s the magic.
Here’s what sets it apart:
| Feature | Why It Wins |
|---|---|
| Creamy Sauce | Made with heavy cream, parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes |
| One-Skillet Simplicity | Fewer dishes = happy cook |
| Weeknight-Ready | On the table in under 40 minutes |
| Versatile Pasta | Works with penne, rigatoni, bowtie, or gluten-free |
| Romantic & Crowd-Pleasing | Feels fancy, tastes indulgent, works for date nights or family dinners |
It also transitions beautifully into casserole form, which is perfect if you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping. (More on that in Part 4.)
One more reason? It’s incredibly customizable. Want to use shrimp? Go for it! Prefer to slow-cook it? I’ve got you covered in Part 3 when we talk Marry Me Chicken Pasta Crock Pot style.
If you love creamy comfort meals like this, definitely try my Jerk Chicken Pasta or this Rotel Chicken Pasta they’re bold, hearty, and just as weeknight-friendly.
Is Penne Pasta Best for Marry Me Chicken?
Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta good with penne?
Yes penne is one of the best choices for Marry Me Chicken Pasta. The short, tube-shaped noodles are just the right size to hold that creamy sauce in every bite. The ridges catch the parmesan, garlic, and sun-dried tomato bits, giving you a perfect flavor-packed forkful every time.
If you’re aiming for that classic Italian-American comfort feel, penne gets the job done. It’s easy to stir into the sauce, reheats well, and doesn’t turn to mush if you’re meal prepping for the week. That’s why so many Marry Me Chicken fans stick to it.
That said, it’s not your only option.
Here are some top pasta picks that work beautifully:
| Pasta Type | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Rigatoni | Bigger tubes = more sauce clings inside |
| Farfalle (Bowtie) | Adds a fun, fancy flair while still holding sauce well |
| Fettuccine | Great for creamy dishes, but can be heavier |
| Gluten-Free Penne | Holds up nicely if cooked al dente—watch the cook time! |
| Cavatappi | Spiral shape locks in flavor and adds texture |
Want to give bowtie pasta a try? I use it in my Tuscan Chicken Casserole, and it holds creamy sauces like a pro.
What pasta do people not recommend?
Some types don’t hold up as well with thick, creamy sauces. These include:
- Angel hair: too delicate, gets soggy fast.
- Elbow macaroni: works in casseroles, but not ideal for stovetop sauces like this.
- Orzo: better for brothy or baked dishes.
If you’re making Marry Me Chicken Pasta Casserole (more in Part 4), elbows might be okay. Otherwise? Stick to shapes that have some heft.
Pro tip from my kitchen: When I use penne, I stop cooking it about 1 minute before the box says it’s done. Then I let it finish in the sauce. That way, it soaks up the flavor without getting mushy.
And if you’re making extra sauce for leftovers, pair it with my Macaroni and Cheese with Evaporated Milk for the ultimate creamy pasta combo night.
Can You Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta in a Crock Pot?
Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta crock pot–friendly?
Absolutely. In fact, if you’re looking for a set-it-and-forget-it dinner that still feels indulgent, Marry Me Chicken Pasta in the crock pot is pure magic. It turns pantry staples and chicken into a slow-cooked, creamy, melt-in-your-mouth meal—with zero babysitting.
Here’s how I make it on busy days when I’m juggling mom life, errands, and “what’s for dinner?” for the tenth time.
Slow-Cooker Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe (Easy Version)
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs | 1.5–2 lbs |
| Chicken broth | 1 ½ cups |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped) | ½ cup |
| Italian seasoning | 1 ½ tsp |
| Salt + pepper | To taste |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Grated parmesan cheese | ¾ cup |
| Penne pasta (cooked separately) | 12 oz |
| Optional: red pepper flakes, spinach | To taste |
Instructions:
- Add to Crock Pot
Place chicken, broth, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and seasonings into the crock pot. Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender. - Shred Chicken
Once done, shred the chicken directly in the pot using two forks. - Stir in Cream + Cheese
Add heavy cream and parmesan. Stir until smooth and creamy. - Add Pasta
Stir in cooked penne (or pasta of choice). Let it sit for 5–10 minutes on warm to thicken. - Optional Add-ins
Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
That’s it. It’s creamy, cheesy, and the chicken practically falls apart. Bonus? The sauce soaks into the pasta like a dream.
Craving a similar cozy dish? My Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole gives you that same comforting vibe, with an oven-baked twist.
Common Crock Pot Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t add uncooked pasta to the slow cooker. It will turn to mush.
- Wait to add dairy until the end. Adding cream or cheese too early can cause curdling.
- Use enough liquid. Crock pots need enough broth to keep things moist and prevent burning.
Want a vegetarian variation? Try this same method with chickpeas or mushrooms in place of chicken. Or use shrimp just add it in the last 30 minutes to avoid overcooking.
And speaking of shrimp if you haven’t tried Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, now’s the time to put it on your list. It’s lighter, faster, and equally swoon-worthy.
Can You Turn Marry Me Chicken Into a Casserole?
Does Marry Me Chicken Pasta work as a casserole?
Yes, and it’s incredible. Marry Me Chicken Pasta Casserole takes everything you love about the stovetop version tender chicken, creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes and turns it into a bubbly, golden-topped dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead.
It’s basically your dinner-party ace in the hole. Just layer it, bake it, and let the oven do the rest.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Casserole
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Penne pasta (cooked al dente) | 12 oz |
| Cooked chicken (shredded or diced) | 2 cups |
| Garlic (minced) | 3–4 cloves |
| Butter or oil | 1 tbsp |
| Sun-dried tomatoes | ½ cup |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Chicken broth | ¾ cup |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup (divided) |
| Mozzarella (optional topping) | 1 cup |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp |
| Salt + pepper | To taste |
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes in butter for 1–2 minutes.
- Add chicken broth, cream, Italian seasoning, and ¾ cup parmesan. Stir until thickened.
- In a large bowl, combine the sauce, chicken, and cooked pasta.
- Pour into a greased 9×13” baking dish.
- Top with remaining parmesan and mozzarella if using.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Reader Review: Real-Life Cooking Win
“I brought this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Casserole to a church potluck, and it was gone in 15 minutes. I had three people ask me for the recipe—including someone’s husband who came back for thirds!”
— Rebecca M., Eugene, Oregon
I love this version during the holidays or on chilly Sundays. If I’m already baking something else like my Hot Cowgirl Casserole I’ll just pop it in next to it and dinner is ready without any extra cleanup.
And don’t forget, casseroles freeze beautifully. Just skip the cheese topping, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready, thaw in the fridge and bake with fresh cheese on top.
Want More Baked Comfort Dishes?
Check out:
- Macaroni and Cheese – ultra creamy, kid-approved
- Jiffy Corn Casserole – a sweet and savory side for any casserole night
- The Best Sweet Potato Casserole – my go-to for family dinners
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Casserole
Equipment
- skillet
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- mixing bowl
- wooden spoon
- measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta, cooked al dente
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.75 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (optional topping)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, sauté minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes in butter or olive oil for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and ¾ cup parmesan. Stir and simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Combine the cooked chicken, pasta, and sauce in a large bowl. Mix until evenly coated.
- Transfer mixture into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining parmesan and mozzarella on top.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let cool for 5 minutes, garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve warm.
Notes
What Does Marry Me Chicken Taste Like?
What does Marry Me Chicken Pasta taste like?
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is creamy, garlicky, savory, and just a little tangy with a hint of heat. It tastes like something you’d order at a cozy Italian bistro, except you made it at home in under an hour.
The star flavors are:
- Sun-dried tomatoes – slightly sweet, tangy, and chewy (they add depth)
- Parmesan + cream – rich, salty, and velvety smooth
- Garlic + Italian seasoning – savory and herbaceous
- Tender chicken – juicy and flavorful from cooking in the sauce
It’s not overly spicy, but you can easily dial up the heat with a pinch of red pepper flakes. I usually sprinkle some on top just for a little zing.
What if I want to make it lighter?
Good news: you can absolutely tweak the flavor and still keep that creamy, dreamy texture. Here are a few smart swaps I’ve tested in my own kitchen:
| Standard Ingredient | Light/Dietary-Friendly Option |
|---|---|
| Heavy cream | Coconut cream, oat cream, or cashew cream |
| Parmesan cheese | Nutritional yeast or dairy-free parm |
| Pasta | Gluten-free penne or zucchini noodles |
| Chicken | Shrimp, tofu, or rotisserie chicken for convenience |
For a lighter version, try my Lemon Chicken Pasta (Dairy Substitute). It swaps cream for lemony brightness and still hits the spot.
How do I make it taste even better?
Quick flavor-boosting tips from my stove to yours:
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or broth after searing the chicken this adds incredible depth.
- Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the most flavor (and sauté your garlic in that oil for bonus richness).
- Let the sauce simmer for 5–10 minutes after adding the cream and cheese. This helps it thicken and marry the flavors (pun intended).
And when you want a break from chicken but still crave that same sauce magic? My Chicken Broccoli and Cottage Cheese Casserole adds a twist that’s equally delicious with creamy comfort baked right in.
Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta Right for Special Occasions?
Can you serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta for date night or holidays?
Oh, absolutely. In fact, this dish was practically made for special moments. Whether it’s a cozy Valentine’s dinner, a birthday meal, or just a random Tuesday when you want something a little extra, Marry Me Chicken Pasta delivers every time.
Here’s why it works so well:
- Elegant but easy – Looks restaurant-worthy but comes together in one pan.
- Make-ahead friendly – You can prep the sauce and pasta ahead, then assemble and heat.
- Universally loved – Creamy, savory, familiar flavors. Picky eaters? They’ll go for seconds.
You can dress it up with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a few shavings of parmesan, and a warm piece of garlic bread. Add a crisp green salad, and it’s a full-on romantic dinner without the restaurant bill.
How do I plate it beautifully?
Visuals matter especially for parties, Pinterest, and Bing Visual Search. Here’s how I serve it when I want that wow factor:
Plating Tips:
- Serve it in shallow white pasta bowls the contrast makes the sauce pop.
- Add a few sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil leaves on top for color.
- Finish with a drizzle of the reserved sun-dried tomato oil (trust me it’s golden).
- Sprinkle with extra parmesan and cracked black pepper.
For visual inspiration, you’ll love the way I styled my Mac and Cheese with Evaporated Milk simple, creamy, and beautiful in every shot.
And if you’re prepping for a potluck or family dinner, bake it into a Marry Me Chicken Pasta Casserole (see Part 4) and serve it bubbling right out of the oven.
Occasions It’s Perfect For:
| Occasion | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Date Night | One pan, candles, and cozy vibes |
| Holiday Dinner | Feels fancy without the stress |
| Family Gathering | Big portions, easy to reheat |
| New Mom Meal Train | Freezer-friendly, comforting, reheats like a champ |
| Meal Prep Sunday | Make once, enjoy for days |
Bonus: Double the sauce and freeze half. It’s like future-you sent you dinner.
Real-Life Experience: From One Busy Mom to Another
“I made your Marry Me Chicken Pasta for our 10-year anniversary dinner at home. My husband literally put his fork down mid-bite and said, ‘You’ve got to be kidding me.’ It was that good. I served it with roasted asparagus and garlic knots total win.”
— Kimberly L., Portland, OR
Stories like Kimberly’s are exactly why I keep sharing these simple, soul-warming recipes. You don’t need hours, fancy gadgets, or culinary school. Just a little heart, pantry basics, and the right recipe.
FAQs
What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy pasta dish made with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, parmesan, heavy cream, and seared chicken. It’s known for its rich, indulgent flavor and easy one-pan prep so good it’s said to inspire marriage proposals.
How long does it take to make Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
It usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cook time. Even quicker if you use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked pasta.
Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta good with penne pasta?
Yes penne pasta is ideal because its ridges and tube shape hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. It also holds up well for leftovers.
Does Marry Me Chicken have penne noodles?
Often, yes. Many recipes use penne for its texture and structure, but you can substitute with rigatoni, farfalle, or even fettuccine depending on your preference.
What is ‘Marry Me Chicken’?
“Marry Me Chicken” is a creamy, pan-seared chicken recipe flavored with garlic, parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs. The name comes from how ridiculously good it tastes legend says it could spark a marriage proposal.
What does Marry Me Chicken taste like?
It tastes rich, creamy, savory, and slightly tangy from the sun-dried tomatoes. The parmesan adds a nutty saltiness, while garlic and herbs bring depth and warmth.
Final Thought: From My Kitchen to Yours
Marry Me Chicken Pasta isn’t just another recipe it’s one of those meals that feels like a moment. It’s the dish you make when you want to impress without stress, when you’re craving comfort but still need to get dinner on the table fast.
I’ve made this recipe on hectic Tuesday nights and quiet anniversaries. I’ve doubled it for potlucks, frozen it for later, and even turned it into a casserole when life needed one less pan to wash. And every single time? It brought smiles, clean plates, and sometimes, quiet little “mmm” sounds that say more than words.
So whether you’re a beginner or just plain busy (like me), I hope this recipe becomes a regular in your rotation. Because food doesn’t have to be fancy to be meaningful it just has to be made with love.
From one tired, hungry, multitasking mom to another you’ve got this. And if your family asks what’s for dinner next week? Just smile and say, “Something worth saying ‘I do’ to.”
