Name: Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast; 2 tsp salt; 1 tsp pepper; 2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; 16 oz bowtie pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 1 shallot, sliced; 2 tbsp flour; 2 cups chicken stock; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning

I have to tell you, this Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is seriously one of my all-time favorites. It’s a creamy, comforting pasta dish loaded with tender, flavorful chicken and a luscious sauce studded with sun-dried tomatoes and fragrant Italian seasoning. Every time I make it, I’m amazed at how simple ingredients come together to create such an impressive meal that feels like a special occasion but takes just about half an hour. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an easy dinner party dish, this recipe always delivers the perfect balance of rich, savory, and fresh flavors that make you want to dive right in.

Why You'll Love This Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

What really makes this recipe stand out to me is the unbelievable depth of flavor packed into every bite. The chicken is perfectly seasoned with garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper, giving it that savory richness without being overpowering. When paired with the creamy sauce made from chicken stock, heavy cream, and Parmesan, it becomes an indulgent, silky coating for the bowtie pasta. The sun-dried tomatoes add these delightful bursts of tangy sweetness that elevate the dish from everyday to exceptional.

I also love how straightforward and quick the cooking process is. From seasoning the chicken to simmering the sauce, the steps feel intuitive and manageable, even if you’re pressed for time. This recipe requires minimal fuss and basic kitchen staples, yet it always impresses whoever I serve it to. It’s great for busy weekday meals but also cozy enough for when you want to make something a little extra without a ton of effort.

In my experience, this Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe shines on many occasions—whether it’s an intimate dinner for two, a family night in, or when you want to wow friends with your cooking skills. The creamy texture, incredible aroma, and combination of flavors always make the meal feel warm and inviting. Plus, it pairs beautifully with simple sides and drinks, making it a versatile staple that I keep coming back to again and again.

Ingredients You'll Need

A top view of ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface, featuring a white bowl in the center holding three raw pale pink chicken fillets. Surrounding the bowl clockwise: a small clear glass bowl filled with reddish dried tomatoes, a small clear glass bowl with a mix of red, black, white spices, another small clear glass bowl with white flour, a small clear glass bowl containing minced garlic, a small clear glass bowl with light yellow chicken broth, a small clear glass bowl filled with white cream, a small glass bowl with yellow butter, a small dish holding green dried herbs, a small clear glass bowl filled with pale yellow uncooked farfalle pasta, and a small clear glass bowl with shredded pale yellow cheese. On the left side near the top is a single red shallot. The setting is bright and clean. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward, but each one contributes something crucial to the taste, texture, and color of the dish. The balance of spices, cream, cheese, and tomatoes creates that signature creamy yet tangy sauce, while the chicken and pasta form the hearty base.

TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

Boneless skinless chicken breast: The star protein that stays juicy and tender when cooked properly.
Bowtie pasta: Its charming shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika: The simple spice mix that adds layers of flavor to the chicken.
Olive oil and butter: For cooking the chicken and starting the sauce with rich, silky texture.
Flour: A little goes a long way to thicken the sauce and give it body.
Heavy cream and chicken stock: The luxurious base of the sauce, balancing richness with savory depth.
Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty goodness and creaminess.
Sun-dried tomatoes: Bursts of concentrated sweetness and acidity that brighten the sauce.
Italian seasoning: The aromatic herb blend that brings everything together with a classic Italian flair.
Shallot: Adds a subtle sweetness and mild onion flavor to the sauce.

Directions

Step 1: In a small bowl, I mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Then I season the chicken breasts evenly with this flavorful blend and set them aside while I prep the rest.

Step 2: I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain it well when it’s ready and set it aside.

Step 3: While the pasta is cooking, I heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. I place the chicken breasts in the pan and let them cook undisturbed for 5 minutes, which helps get a nice golden crust.

Step 4: Then I flip the chicken over and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, making sure the chicken is perfectly cooked through but still juicy.

Step 5: After removing the chicken from the skillet, I reduce the heat to medium and add the butter along with thinly sliced shallots. I cook those gently for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the shallots to soften and become fragrant.

Step 6: I sprinkle the flour over the shallots and stir well so that it coats them evenly, which helps build the base for a smooth sauce.

Step 7: Next, I add the chicken stock one cup at a time, stirring continuously. I let the sauce thicken for 2 to 3 minutes after each addition — this gradual approach creates a velvety, luscious texture.

Step 8: Once the sauce has thickened nicely, I stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning to bring those powerful bursts of flavor and aroma.

Step 9: I turn off the heat and then fold in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts fully and the sauce becomes luxuriously creamy.

Step 10: Finally, I add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until every bowtie is coated with the delicious sauce.

Step 11: I slice the cooked chicken and arrange it on top of the pasta. Now it’s ready to serve — rich, comforting, and absolutely irresistible.

Servings and Timing

This Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe serves 4 comfortably, making it perfect for a family dinner or sharing with friends. The prep time is around 10 minutes, mostly for seasoning and chopping the shallot, while the cooking time is approximately 20 minutes. That brings the total active time to about 30 minutes, which is great for whipping up a fantastic meal without a long wait. Because the dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh, there’s no resting time required, but you can let it sit just a few minutes if needed before plating.

How to Serve This Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

A close-up of a white pan filled with three pieces of golden brown, cooked chicken placed on top of a bed of creamy farfalle pasta. The pasta is mixed with small pieces of red sun-dried tomatoes spread evenly, creating a light contrast with the pale pasta. The pan sits on a white marbled surface with a small white bowl containing extra sun-dried tomatoes nearby, and a sprig of green herbs is visible in the top right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When I serve this dish, I love to keep things simple yet elegant. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully to contrast the richness of the creamy sauce. Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans also complement the flavors and add a fresh crunch on the side.

For garnishing, I like to sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top. The bright green color immediately lifts the presentation, and the fresh herbs add another layer of flavor. A little extra shaved Parmesan doesn’t hurt either, especially for guests who love that cheesy goodness.

As for beverages, this recipe goes wonderfully with a chilled glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, whose acidity cuts through the richness of the cream. If you prefer cocktails, a light spritz or a gin and tonic works nicely. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a twist of lemon keeps things fresh and balanced. This dish feels right at home for weeknight dinners, date nights, or anytime you want to impress without the stress.

Variations

I’m always excited to tweak this recipe to suit different dietary needs or flavor preferences. If you want to lighten it up, swapping out the heavy cream for half-and-half or even coconut milk works well, adding a subtle twist in flavor. For a gluten-free version, just use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour substitute to thicken the sauce, like cornstarch or rice flour.

To make it vegan, I substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, use plant-based cream alternatives, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. The Italian seasoning and sun-dried tomatoes maintain that familiar flavor profile even without dairy or meat. I sometimes add spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies and texture, which I definitely recommend for a more colorful dish.

If you want to switch up the cooking method, you could grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it for a smoky flavor. Or try baking the assembled pasta in a casserole dish topped with mozzarella for a bubbly, golden crust. No matter how you customize it, the base of this Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe remains deeply satisfying and versatile.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, I recommend storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it tightly to avoid condensation and sogginess. If you have glass containers with lids, those work beautifully to preserve the flavors and prevent any fridge odors from sneaking in.

Freezing

This pasta can be frozen, but I find that its creamy texture can change slightly after freezing and thawing. If you plan to freeze, I suggest putting the pasta and sauce in a freezer-safe container without the chicken, as chicken freezes best on its own to maintain quality. Label it with the date and try to use within 2 months for best results. When thawing, do so in the fridge overnight to keep the sauce from separating too much.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer warming the leftovers gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream if it seems thick or dry. Stir frequently to restore creaminess. Microwaving works in a pinch, but I recommend heating in short bursts and stirring in between to prevent uneven heating or curdling. Avoid overheating, as that can make the chicken tough and the sauce break. Reheating slowly and carefully brings this dish back to life perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is ideal for its shape and texture, you can use penne, fusilli, farfalle, or even fettuccine. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly and drain well before combining with the sauce.

What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes if I don’t have any?

If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes on hand, chopped roasted red peppers or even halved cherry tomatoes make great alternatives. They provide a sweet and slightly tangy element that complements the creamy sauce well.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it works well for meal prep since it stores and reheats nicely. Just be mindful to keep the chicken and pasta together to soak up the sauce evenly. I recommend eating leftovers within 3 days for the best freshness and flavor.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Definitely! Use dairy-free cream alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream, and substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese. These changes keep the dish creamy and flavorful without dairy.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked perfectly?

The best way to check is with a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The chicken should be opaque all the way through and juicy but not pink in the center.

Conclusion

I truly hope you give this Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that never fails to impress me and my loved ones. It’s straightforward, delicious, and incredibly satisfying, the kind of meal that feels like a comforting hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, friends, or family, I’m confident it’ll become a favorite go-to that you’ll want to make again and again.