Creamy, flavorful, and filled with comforting ingredients, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta is an irresistible dish that’s perfect for dinner. Tender pasta, shredded chicken, and a rich sauce come together beautifully in this easy recipe.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 ounces uncooked pasta

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons butter
1/2 tablespoon flour
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/3 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
1 cup heavy/whipping cream
1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 cups cooked/rotisserie chicken, shredded
1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
1 small handful fresh basil, torn or chopped
Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta until al dente, according to package directions. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Make the Base of the Sauce
When the pasta is about 10 minutes from being done, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for about 1 minute to create a roux.
Add Aromatics and Liquids
Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste. Pour in the wine or chicken broth, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to bubble for about a minute to reduce slightly.
Create the Creamy Sauce
Whisk in the heavy cream. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, and shredded chicken. Cook for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Finish the Sauce
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Remove the skillet from heat and season the sauce generously with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine with Pasta
Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing until fully coated in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it to your liking.
Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Creamy: The luscious sauce brings together creamy, tangy, and savory flavors in perfect harmony.
Quick and Easy: This recipe can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights.
Versatile: Use leftover chicken or swap out ingredients to suit your preferences.

Tips

Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor; pre-grated varieties may not melt as smoothly.
Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency. It adds flavor and ensures the sauce clings to the pasta.
Use rotisserie chicken to save time, or substitute with freshly cooked chicken breast or thighs.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Options: Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Pasta Choices: Try penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine if you don’t have the suggested pasta on hand.
Additional Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for added texture and nutrition.
Lighter Option: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce calories, though the sauce may be less creamy.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before adding freshly cooked pasta.

Can I freeze this dish?
The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to cook the pasta fresh for serving, as pasta can become mushy when frozen and reheated.

Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes! Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat.

Serving and Suggestions

Side Dishes: Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of Chardonnay or sparkling water infused with fresh citrus slices.
Leftover Ideas: Reheat leftovers in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce.

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and creamy dish that’s sure to impress, whether for a casual weeknight meal or a special dinner occasion.