Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of a pasta dish so rich, flavorful, and comforting that it feels like it was made just for you, then the Marry Me Chicken Pasta will sweep you off your feet. This creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce paired with tender chicken thighs and vibrant spinach tossed with gluten free pasta combines textures and tastes that genuinely marry together in perfect harmony. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether you’re cooking for your family or trying to impress someone special at dinner time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Marry Me Chicken Pasta lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the smoky paprika that seasons the chicken to the fresh basil that adds a burst of color and brightness at the end.

• 3 boneless skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, these provide the hearty protein base for the dish.
• ¾ tbsp smoked sweet paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth that elevates the chicken’s flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that gives the dish an authentic Italian flair.
• ¾ teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick to complement the creamy sauce.
• 1 tablespoon sun dried tomato oil: Full of rich tomato essence, it’s the perfect fat to sear the chicken and build flavor.
• 12 oz farfalle pasta: Bow-tie pasta’s shape holds sauce beautifully, making every bite delicious.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds silkiness to the sauce, ensuring every forkful is luscious.
• 2 tablespoons dried shallots: Provides a sweet, mild onion base for the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic: The classic aromatic that wakes up the entire dish.
• 1 tablespoon minced onion: Adds more savory depth to the sauce foundation.
• 3 tablespoons gluten free flour: Thickens the sauce without any gluten worries.
• 2 cups chicken broth: Builds the savory backbone and keeps the sauce light.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that irresistible creamy texture we all crave.
• 1 cup shredded parmesan: Melts into the sauce bringing a salty, nutty richness.
• ¼ cup diced sun dried tomatoes: Bursts of concentrated tomato flavor add a lovely tang.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Boosts the saucy tomato intensity.
• 1 cup diced spinach: Adds freshness and a touch of green for balance.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: Reinforces the herbaceous profile for complexity.
• ½ teaspoon smoked sweet paprika: A sprinkle more of smoky warmth.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Fine-tunes the seasoning for perfection.
• Chopped fresh basil for garnish: Gives that fresh, vibrant finish that makes you smile.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken

Begin by washing and drying your chicken thighs completely—this ensures a perfect sear. Toss them gently with the smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper so every bite bursts with flavor. Warm the sun dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat; this oil alone infuses the chicken with an amazing depth. Sear the chicken for about 3 minutes on each side until beautifully browned, locking in those juices. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let the chicken cook through—usually 6 to 10 minutes—until the internal temperature reaches a safe 165 degrees. This slow finish makes the chicken tender and juicy every time.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While your chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the farfalle pasta according to package instructions until just al dente. This texture is crucial because it holds up perfectly when tossed with the creamy sauce later on. Once done, drain it and set it aside so it’s ready to join the sauce and chicken shortly.

Step 3: Build the Flavorful Sauce

In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add the dried shallots, minced onion, minced garlic, sun dried tomatoes, and tomato paste along with the second round of Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and salt. Sauté gently for about 2 minutes until the mix is fragrant and full of promise. Stir in the gluten free flour, mixing well to form a roux that will thicken your sauce beautifully. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly, and add the diced spinach. Let it simmer lightly until the sauce thickens and the spinach softens, creating an irresistibly creamy base. Finally, stir in the shredded parmesan for a silky, cheesy finish.

Step 4: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce

Dice your cooled chicken into bite-sized pieces—it’s easier to eat and better distributed this way. Gently fold the chicken and cooked pasta into the luscious sauce, making sure everything is coated in creamy goodness. At this stage, the flavors marry together perfectly, proving why this dish is worthy of its romantic name. A sprinkle of fresh chopped basil on top adds the final fresh note, ready to wow anyone lucky enough to share this plate with you.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh chopped basil is essential for garnishing Marry Me Chicken Pasta—it adds a vibrant green color and a refreshing herbal aroma that cuts through the richness. If you want to get creative, a little extra grated parmesan or a tiny drizzle of high-quality olive oil can also elevate the presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

This pasta shines best when paired with simple, fresh sides that balance its richness. Think crisp mixed greens dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette or a crunchy garlic bread made with gluten free baguettes to keep the meal cohesive. Roasted veggies like asparagus or cherry tomatoes provide a healthy pop of color and texture contrast that complements every bite of the creamy main.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, try plating Marry Me Chicken Pasta in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce proudly. Use a fresh basil sprig as a garnish and perhaps a sprinkling of chili flakes for those who enjoy a hint of spice. You can also layer the pasta in a beautiful glass casserole dish for a family-style presentation that invites everyone to dig in and enjoy the comfort and love the dish embodies.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of Marry Me Chicken Pasta store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the next-day meal equally delicious. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

Freezing this pasta dish is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce and spinach, which can separate and become watery upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of cooking to fully savor its creamy, indulgent texture.

Reheating

When reheating, opt for gentle warmth over medium-low heat in a skillet to prevent the sauce from breaking. Stir frequently until heated through for the best texture. Alternatively, microwave individual servings in short 1-minute intervals, stirring between each burst, to evenly warm the dish without drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work fine, but thighs add juiciness and richer flavor, so if you switch to breasts, consider not overcooking them to maintain tenderness.

Is this Marry Me Chicken Pasta gluten free?

Yes, this recipe uses Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 gluten free flour and gluten free pasta, making it friendly for gluten sensitivities without compromising taste.

Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter alternative?

While heavy cream gives the sauce its luscious texture, you could try half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version—though it will slightly alter the creaminess.

What type of sun dried tomatoes work best?

Oil-packed sun dried tomatoes are ideal because their marinade oil doubles as flavorful cooking oil. They bring an unmatched intensity and smoothness to the sauce that dried-only tomatoes can’t provide.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Marry Me Chicken Pasta stores well for a few days, making it a wonderful make-ahead dinner. Just remember to keep your pasta al dente to avoid mushiness when reheated.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes whenever you want something comforting but special. The way the flavors dance with every forkful is nothing short of joyful. So go ahead, make this creamy, dreamy pasta, and enjoy the love and deliciousness that comes with every bite!