Whenever I cook this dish, the aroma of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes fills my kitchen like a familiar embrace. The scent of simmering cream and chicken melds with a hint of basil, instantly transporting me to summer nights in Italy—no passport needed. This recipe isn’t just about flavor; it’s about reclaiming that cozy, unhurried moment in the chaos of everyday life.
What makes Marry Me Chicken Pasta stand out is how the sauce clings to every strand of pasta, each bite bursting with tangy, savory goodness. It’s a dish that turns simple ingredients into a celebration, perfect for casual weeknights or lazy weekends. The best part? It’s surprisingly forgiving—an easy nod to spontaneous cooking that feels indulgent and satisfying.
WHY I LOVE THIS RECIPE?
- It’s a reminder that comfort can be quick and elegant at the same time.
- The smell of garlic and crushed red pepper waking up my senses is pure joy.
- I love how it brings a bit of Italy’s sun and soul into my home, no matter the season.
- Cooking this dish makes me feel like I’m preserving a little piece of nostalgia with every spoonful.
- There’s a chaos-prone part of me that appreciates how forgiving and adaptable this recipe is.
As the seasons shift, this pasta continues to be my go-to for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal. It’s about those quiet moments of satisfaction, the spoon clinks on the pot, and the anticipation of that first bite. Sometimes, all you need is a simple dish that reminds you of home, no matter where you are.
In a world that moves too fast, this recipe offers a chance to slow down and savor. It’s a small way to add some warmth and connection, one plate at a time.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the same skillet. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and the garlic just begins to turn golden.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and develop a creamy consistency.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add the crushed red pepper flakes, and stir to combine. Simmer for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce and the ingredients are evenly mixed. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to cling to each strand.
- Finish by stirring in the chopped fresh basil, letting its aroma permeate the dish and adding a burst of freshness.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil if desired.
Notes
Making this pasta always feels like a celebration of simple ingredients turned special. The rich sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta come together effortlessly, creating a dish that’s both hearty and refined. It’s the kind of comfort food that reminds you that home cooking can be quick, effortless, and deeply satisfying.
And after the last forkful, I often find myself smiling at how a few everyday ingredients can bring such joy. This recipe is a quiet affirmation that sometimes, the best moments are found in the humble, imperfect dishes that make us feel most at home.
Hi there! I’m Elias Carter, the foodie and recipe creator behind Dramatically Stirring.
Food has always been my love language. Growing up in the heart of North Carolina, I spent countless hours in the kitchen with my grandmother, learning how a simple meal could tell a story, bring people together, and stir up emotions far beyond taste. That’s the spirit behind this blog — food that isn’t just cooked, but dramatically stirring.