Creamy Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Print Version)

Creamy, cheesy Parmesan chicken pasta is an easy weeknight dinner. This irresistible dish features tender chicken, rich sauce, and al dente pasta.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American

# Ingredients:

→ The Marry Me Chicken Core

01 - 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
03 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
04 - Salt and black pepper to taste
05 - 2 tbsp olive oil

→ Creamy Parmesan Embrace

06 - 1 tbsp unsalted butter
07 - 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
08 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
09 - 1 cup chicken broth
10 - 1 cup heavy cream
11 - 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained and chopped)
12 - 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Pasta & Freshness Finish

13 - 12 oz pasta (e.g., penne, fettuccine, rigatoni)
14 - 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
15 - Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Boil 12 oz pasta (e.g., penne, fettuccine, rigatoni) according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain. This ensures your Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Creamy & Cheesy) has perfectly cooked noodles ready for the sauce.
02 - Pat dry 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Season with 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 5-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and slice.
03 - Reduce heat to medium. Add 1 tbsp unsalted butter to the skillet. Sauté 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
04 - Pour in 1 cup chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. This forms the rich base for your Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Creamy & Cheesy).
05 - Stir in 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped) and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional). Gradually whisk in 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
06 - Return the sliced chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Add the cooked 12 oz pasta and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Ensure every piece of chicken and pasta is enveloped in the creamy, cheesy sauce for the ultimate Parmesan Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Creamy & Cheesy).
07 - Garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh chopped basil leaves. Serve immediately, perhaps with a side salad or crusty bread, to fully enjoy this decadent and comforting dish.

# Notes:

01 - Feel free to substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra flavor and tenderness.
02 - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
03 - For added vegetables, consider stirring in a cup of fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms with the sun-dried tomatoes.
04 - For an even richer sauce, try adding a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone along with the heavy cream.

# Tools You'll Need:

01 - Large skillet
02 - Large pot
03 - Cutting board
04 - Chef's knife
05 - Measuring cups
06 - Measuring spoons
07 - Tongs
08 - Wooden spoon

# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 995 kcal
Total Fat: 43 g
Total Carbohydrate: 73 g
Protein: 71 g