Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue stirring until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Cook the Pasta
While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Combine and Serve
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 5-7 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is coated with the creamy sauce.
Garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.
Recipe Tips
Chicken Thighs Option: You can substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
Add Veggies: For added flavor and texture, consider adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce.
Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to make the dish as spicy or mild as you like.
Make it Lighter: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version, though it may slightly affect the richness of the sauce.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread would be perfect for sopping up that creamy sauce.
Salad: A crisp, green salad with a light vinaigrette will complement the richness of the chicken and pasta.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus or broccoli would make for a great side dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you like. Spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne all work wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the sauce on the stove before adding the pasta and chicken.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken with Pasta?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw and reheat the sauce, then add fresh pasta and the chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Date Night: Serve this dish with a bottle of red wine (a medium-bodied one like Merlot) for a romantic, restaurant-worthy experience.
Family Dinner: This is a comforting meal that can feed a whole family, especially if you pair it with a simple salad and bread.
Meal Prep: Make this recipe ahead of time and divide it into meal prep containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.