Creamy, savory, and downright irresistible, Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta lives up to its charming name. This dish combines golden seared chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and tender penne pasta all wrapped in a luscious garlic parmesan cream sauce. It’s the kind of recipe that turns a regular dinner into something special—with minimal effort.

The flavor combination in this pasta is perfectly balanced. The creamy base is rich but not heavy, the sun-dried tomatoes bring tangy sweetness, and the spinach adds a pop of color and freshness. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or just yourself, this is a comforting, soul-satisfying meal that might just earn you a marriage proposal (or at least a very enthusiastic second helping).

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For this recipe, boneless skinless chicken breasts work best. They’re easy to slice into bite-sized pieces and cook quickly in the pan. You could also use boneless thighs if you prefer a slightly richer, more tender bite. The key is to season them well and sear until golden to lock in flavor.

Ingredients for the Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Chicken Breasts – Lean, protein-packed, and perfect for soaking up all the creamy, garlicky sauce.

Penne Pasta – Its tube shape holds sauce in every bite, making it ideal for cream-based recipes like this.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes – These bring a deep, tangy sweetness that balances the richness of the sauce.

Fresh Spinach – Adds freshness, nutrients, and a beautiful pop of green.

Heavy Cream – The base for our indulgent sauce—it makes everything taste luxurious.

Parmesan Cheese – Salty, nutty, and melty, it ties the whole sauce together.

Garlic – Fresh garlic gives the sauce a bold flavor punch you don’t want to skip.

Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that adds depth without overwhelming the other flavors.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, but great if you like a little heat.

Olive Oil & Butter – For searing the chicken and building flavor in the pan.

How To Make the Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add diced or sliced chicken breasts seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a touch more oil if needed. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in sun-dried tomatoes and cook another minute.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes before adding grated parmesan cheese. Stir until cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Spinach

Return the cooked chicken to the pan, followed by the fresh spinach. Let it wilt in the warm sauce, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Toss with Pasta

Add the drained pasta directly into the sauce. Stir until everything is well coated and heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with fresh basil or extra parmesan. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

How to Serve and Store Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This pasta is best served hot right out of the pan. A sprinkle of fresh basil or extra parmesan on top adds a restaurant-quality touch. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce and keep it creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild as written, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes to dial up the heat to your taste.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the chicken and sauce earlier, then cook pasta fresh and combine when ready to serve.

Is there a dairy-free version?

You could try using coconut cream and a dairy-free parmesan alternative, but it will slightly change the flavor profile.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely. Fettuccine, rigatoni, or even farfalle will work well—just stick to something sturdy.

What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

Roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes can work, but you may want to adjust seasoning to balance flavors.

How do I know the chicken is cooked?

It should be golden on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Cut into a piece if you’re unsure.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta, here are some other creamy, comforting favorites to try next:

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for a veggie-packed twist.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce if you’re craving bold, cheesy flavor.
Red Pepper Rigatoni for a bold, smoky kick in your pasta night.
Creamy Tortellini Recipe that’s perfect for a quick dinner win.
One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for a hearty, satisfying skillet meal.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a different pasta or sneak in more veggies? Did your guests love it as much as mine do?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better, tastier meals.