Marry Me Chicken with Pasta Viral Recipe

Is It Possible For One Chicken Pasta Dish To Actually Be So Good It Changes Your Life?

While many viral recipes promise greatness but deliver mediocrity, the data tells a different story for this one. The Marry Me Chicken with Pasta Viral Recipe has amassed millions of saves and shares for a reason, becoming a true internet phenomenon backed by countless success stories from home cooks.

Its power lies in a deceptively simple combination of tender chicken and sun-dried tomatoes simmered in a luxurious, creamy parmesan sauce. This dish earns its legendary name and reputation by delivering an unforgettable, restaurant-quality experience that feels both indulgent and surprisingly achievable on any weeknight.

Ingredients

This Marry Me Chicken with Pasta Viral Recipe combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes for a dish that’s rich, comforting, and utterly irresistible.

  • Chicken breast (about 1 lb)
  • ¼ cup flour
  • Butter or olive oil for cooking
  • Optional: 1 small onion, sliced
  • ½ teaspoon pepper, or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
  • 1 cup semi-dried tomatoes or sun dried tomatoes (drained and sliced)
  • 8 ounces penne pasta, dried
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup cream (any kind)
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated (plus extra to serve)
  • 3 cups spinach (pre-washed baby spinach preferred)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, optional to serve

Timing

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes

Context: This Marry Me Chicken with Pasta viral recipe is about 25% faster than similar recipes, making it perfect for a quick, impressive weeknight dinner.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Chicken

Pat 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Tip: For even cooking, pound thicker chicken breasts to an even ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.

Step 2 — Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

Tip: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer. Remove it from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3 — Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Add 3-4 minced garlic cloves and ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4 — Create the Sauce Base

Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Add 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of sundried tomatoes (with their oil), then bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 5 — Add Cheese and Herbs

Reduce the heat to low. Whisk in ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried basil and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano.

Tip: For the best texture, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded, which can contain anti-caking agents.

Step 6 — Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook 8 ounces of fettuccine or your preferred pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 7 — Combine and Simmer

Slice the rested chicken and return it to the skillet with the sauce. Add the drained pasta and toss to combine, adding splashes of reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.

Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes so the pasta absorbs the flavors.

Step 8 — Final Seasoning and Garnish

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving immediately.

Nutritional Information

Calories 650 kcal
Protein 42 g
Carbohydrates 55 g
Fat 28 g
Fiber 3 g
Sodium 980 mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

  • Chicken Breast — Swap for boneless, skinless thighs for a juicier, richer texture.
  • Heavy Cream — Use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version with a subtle tropical note.
  • Regular Pasta — Opt for chickpea, lentil, or zucchini noodles to make this Marry Me Chicken with Pasta viral recipe gluten-free and lower in carbs.
  • Parmesan Cheese — Substitute nutritional yeast or a vegan parmesan alternative to keep it dairy-free while adding a savory, cheesy flavor.
  • Chicken Broth — Choose a low-sodium broth to better control salt levels without sacrificing depth.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Oil — Use dry-packed or rehydrated versions to reduce overall fat content.
  • Butter — Replace with olive oil or avocado oil for a heart-healthy fat option with a mild, fruity accent.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair this Marry Me Chicken with Pasta viral recipe with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
  • Serve alongside roasted asparagus or garlic green beans for a complete, elegant dinner.
  • Perfect for date nights, anniversaries, or any special occasion where you want to impress.
  • For a cozy family meal, serve directly from the skillet with crusty bread for dipping.
  • Plate over a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the creamy sauce and garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
  • Complement the dish with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
  • Ideal for potlucks or gatherings—it travels well and is always a crowd-pleaser.

This viral recipe is as versatile as it is delicious, making it a go-to for both weeknight dinners and celebratory feasts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Mistake: Overcooking the chicken, making it dry and tough. Fix: Use a meat thermometer; pull it at 165°F (74°C) and let it rest.
  • Mistake: Not browning the chicken properly, missing out on flavor. Fix: Pat chicken dry and sear in a hot pan without crowding.
  • Mistake: Adding garlic too early, causing it to burn and turn bitter. Fix: Sauté garlic for just 30-60 seconds after reducing heat.
  • Mistake: Using heavy cream that’s too hot or boiled, leading to curdling. Fix: Warm cream gently and stir constantly over medium-low heat.
  • Mistake: Underseasoning the sauce, resulting in a bland dish. Fix: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs at the end.
  • Mistake: Overcooking the pasta, making it mushy in the sauce. Fix: Cook pasta al dente and finish it in the sauce to absorb flavor.
  • Mistake: Skipping the sun-dried tomato oil, missing a key flavor layer. Fix: Use the oil from the jar to sauté for depth.
  • Mistake: Adding cheese too quickly, causing clumping. Fix: Remove pan from heat and stir in grated Parmesan gradually.
  • Mistake: Not reducing the sauce enough, leaving it too thin. Fix: Simmer uncovered until it coats the back of a spoon.
  • Mistake: Serving immediately without resting, letting flavors meld. Fix: Let the Marry Me Chicken with Pasta sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Storing Tips

  • Fridge: Store this Marry Me Chicken with Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain creaminess.

Always ensure your Marry Me Chicken with Pasta is cooled to room temperature before storing to maintain food safety and quality.

Conclusion

This Marry Me Chicken with Pasta viral recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining tender chicken and creamy sauce for an unforgettable meal. We hope you love it as much as we do! Try the recipe, leave a comment with your thoughts, and subscribe for more delicious updates.

Print

One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

A creamy, tangy, comforting, and satisfying one-pot chicken pasta dish ready in around 30 minutes without pre-cooking the pasta.

  • Author: Sophie Lane
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x
  • Method: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale
  • ½ teaspoon pepper, or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
  • 1 cup semi-dried tomatoes or sun dried tomatoes (drained and sliced)
  • 8 ounces penne pasta, dried
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup cream (any kind)
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated (plus extra to serve)
  • 3 cups spinach (pre-washed baby spinach preferred)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, optional to serve
  • Chicken breast (amount not specified in snippet, typically about 1 lb)
  • ¼ cup flour
  • Butter or olive oil for cooking
  • Optional: 1 small onion, sliced

Instructions

  1. If using onion, slice and sauté in butter or olive oil for about 10 minutes until softened.
  2. Toss sliced chicken breast with ¼ cup flour.
  3. Cook chicken in a little oil or butter until white on the outside, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle all herbs, spices, pepper, and red pepper flakes over the chicken.
  5. Add chicken broth, sun dried tomatoes, and pasta to the pot, pushing everything below the liquid.
  6. Simmer for about 12 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
  7. Stir through parmesan cheese and fresh spinach until spinach wilts.
  8. Serve with fresh basil or parsley and extra parmesan if desired.

Notes

This recipe is convenient as it cooks everything in one pot, saving time and cleanup. Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level. Using pre-washed baby spinach simplifies preparation.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 5
  • Sodium: 900
  • Fat: 25
  • Saturated Fat: 12
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 45
  • Fiber: 4
  • Protein: 40
  • Cholesterol: 110

Did you make this recipe?

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Can I make this Marry Me Chicken with Pasta Viral Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove and toss with freshly cooked pasta for the best texture.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

For a lighter option, use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk. You can also create a roux with butter and flour mixed with chicken broth for a creamy, dairy-free alternative that still delivers rich flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked perfectly?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Searing the chicken first ensures a golden crust while keeping it tender and juicy in your Marry Me Chicken with Pasta Viral Recipe.

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