If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, elegance, and a burst of flavor all in one bowl, the Creamy Marry Me Pasta Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender chicken pieces bathed in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce, perfectly coated pasta, and the pop of fresh cherry tomatoes—this recipe brings a restaurant-worthy meal right into your home kitchen with ease and warmth. Every bite feels like a cozy hug, making it perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or just because you deserve something indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem simple, but each plays a crucial role in creating that irresistible balance of taste, texture, and color that makes the Creamy Marry Me Pasta Recipe so memorable. From savory spices to fresh herbs, every component will shine in this dish.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced: Choose fresh chicken for tender, juicy bites.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Essential for browning the chicken and adding subtle richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance every other flavor.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory depth that complements the fresh garlic.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Brings a fragrant herbaceous note that ties the dish together.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The star of the sauce, creating that dreamy creamy texture.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Adds savory moisture and balances the richness of the cream.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, packing in cheesy umami goodness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic for that pungent, aromatic kick.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Offering a burst of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 8 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta: Fettuccine is classic, but any pasta that holds sauce well will do!
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Brightens the dish and adds a fresh herbal finish.
How to Make Creamy Marry Me Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling salted water in a large pot—this ensures your pasta is seasoned from the inside out. Cook your fettuccine following the package directions until al dente, then drain and set it aside. Don’t skip salting the water as it’s your first chance to season the pasta.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, season your diced chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add the chicken. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes to form a golden crust before stirring, then continue cooking until fully cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it carefully until fragrant, approximately one minute—avoid burning it! Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, gently stirring as the mixture comes to a simmer. Then sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes velvety smooth. This creamy sauce is what makes the Creamy Marry Me Pasta Recipe absolutely irresistible.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cooked chicken back into the skillet, stirring to coat everything evenly. Let this simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors can mingle and the tomatoes soften just enough, adding brightness without losing their delicate texture.
Step 5: Toss the Pasta
Finally, add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss carefully until every strand is luxuriously coated in that dreamy sauce. This step brings the whole dish together and makes sure every bite is dripping with flavor.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch. Serve immediately while warm, and prepare for the compliments to roll in!
How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley adds a pop of green color and a burst of fresh flavor that cuts through the richness beautifully. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give a gentle heat, enhancing the depth of the sauce without overwhelming it.
Side Dishes
This pasta shines on its own, but pairing it with a simple mixed green salad or roasted vegetables adds a refreshing contrast and completes your meal. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is the perfect companion too, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party vibe, plate the pasta in shallow bowls, topping with a handful of cherry tomatoes and a delicate parsley sprig. Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the top for shine. You could even sprinkle some toasted pine nuts for crunch or swap chicken for shrimp to switch things up.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Creamy Marry Me Pasta Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce might thicken as it chills, so a quick stir or splash of milk when reheating will bring it back to life beautifully.
Freezing
While freezing this dish isn’t ideal due to the cream-based sauce’s tendency to separate, if you must, freeze the components separately. Freeze cooked chicken and sauce in separate containers, and pasta in another. Thaw gently and reheat slowly to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of chicken broth, cream, or milk if the sauce feels too thick or dry. Avoid microwaving at high power to keep the sauce creamy and silky.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional here, penne, linguine, or even bowtie pasta works wonderfully. Just pick something that holds the creamy sauce well so each bite is still flavorful.
What if I’m not a fan of chicken?
You can easily swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or keep it vegetarian by adding hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. The sauce is versatile and pairs well with many proteins and veggies.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream to reduce richness, though the sauce won’t be quite as thick and velvety. Using less cheese also helps lighten it without losing flavor.
How spicy is the Creamy Marry Me Pasta Recipe?
This version is mild and savory but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to bring in some heat if you enjoy a spicier kick.
Can I meal prep this dish for the week?
Definitely! Cook in advance and store in individual portions. Just remember to reheat gently and add a splash of liquid to restore the creamy sauce’s wonderful texture each time.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the Creamy Marry Me Pasta Recipe that invites you to slow down and savor every bite. Its rich, comforting sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant tomatoes create a harmony of flavors that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day, this recipe promises delicious warmth you’ll want to make again and again. So don’t hesitate—grab those ingredients and dive into a bowl of happiness tonight!
Print
Creamy Marry Me Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Creamy Marry Me Pasta is a decadent and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breast cooked in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce with garlic and cherry tomatoes, tossed with perfectly cooked fettuccine. This comforting meal is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Season the diced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until golden and fully cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make the sauce: Using the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Combine ingredients: Add the cherry tomatoes and cooked chicken back into the skillet. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Toss the pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together thoroughly so the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and enjoy while warm for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use a lower-fat milk option.
- Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
