Looking for a dish that’s so irresistible it could win hearts at the dinner table? This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender chicken, a rich creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta into a meal that’s bound to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or feeding the family, this recipe combines the viral flavors of the famous “Marry Me Chicken” with the ease of a baked pasta dish.
This recipe has taken the internet by storm for good reason—it’s a delightful mix of savory, creamy, and cheesy elements that make every bite unforgettable. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this marry me chicken pasta recipe is a go-to when you need something hearty yet simple to whip up. Let’s dive into why this dish is a must-try for anyone craving creamy chicken recipes.
In the sections below, I’ll walk you through everything you need to create this crowd-pleaser, from the ingredients to step-by-step instructions. Get ready to fall in love with a meal that’s as easy as it is delicious!
Introduction
If you’ve ever wanted a dinner that feels like a warm hug, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake is your answer. Inspired by the viral “Marry Me Chicken” recipe—a dish so good it’s said to inspire proposals—this baked pasta version takes things up a notch. It combines juicy chicken, a luscious cream sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs, and pasta baked to golden perfection with a cheesy topping.
What makes this recipe stand out among other chicken pasta recipes is its balance of flavors. The tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes pairs beautifully with the richness of the cream and Parmesan, while the chicken stays tender and flavorful. It’s a fantastic choice for easy weeknight dinners because it comes together with minimal effort but tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this marry me chicken pasta recipe is approachable and forgiving. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers the next day. Let’s explore how to bring this comforting meal to life!
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Category: Main Dish, Comfort Food
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
What You’ll Need
To create this dreamy marry me chicken pasta bake, each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key components and why they matter:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide a lean protein base that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Pasta: Short shapes like rigatoni or penne hold onto the sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Cream: Heavy cream forms the rich, velvety base of the sauce, making this dish indulgently creamy.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a tangy-sweet depth that’s signature to marry me chicken recipes.
- Parmesan and Mozzarella: A blend of cheeses offers sharpness and melty goodness for that irresistible baked top.
- Herbs and Spices: Garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes bring warmth and a subtle kick to the dish.
Gather everything you need for a creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake!
INGREDIENTS
- – 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- – 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
- – 2 tbsp olive oil
- – 3 cloves garlic, minced
- – 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil, drained)
- – 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- – 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- – 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- – 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- – 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- – 1/2 cup chicken broth
- – Salt and pepper, to taste
- – Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
PREPARATION
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken to a plate.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer for 3-4 minutes, then mix in 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything to coat in the creamy sauce, then transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the top with the remaining 1/2 cup Parmesan and 1 cup mozzarella cheese. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots.
- Remove from the oven, let it cool for 5 minutes, and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
NUTRITION INFORMATION
- Calories: 620 per serving
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 34g
- Sodium: 720mg
(Values are approximate and based on 6 servings.)
Why Is It Called Marry Me Chicken?
The name “Marry Me Chicken” comes from the idea that this dish is so delicious, it could inspire a marriage proposal! The original recipe, featuring a creamy, flavorful chicken dish, gained popularity online for its romantic allure. This marry me chicken pasta bake keeps that charm with its comforting, irresistible flavors.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This is one of those easy pasta recipes that works wonderfully as a make-ahead meal. Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to heat through.
What Pasta Shapes Work Best?
For baked dishes like this marry me chicken pasta, short pasta shapes are ideal. Rigatoni, penne, or farfalle are great choices because their ridges and hollows trap the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Avoid long, thin noodles like spaghetti, as they don’t hold up as well in a casserole.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Store leftovers of this family dinner favorite in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce, then warm in the microwave or oven at 350°F until heated through. Avoid overcooking to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.
Can I Use Different Proteins?
While chicken is the star of this marry me chicken pasta recipe, you can swap it for other proteins like shrimp or turkey. Adjust cooking times accordingly—shrimp, for instance, cooks much faster than chicken. This flexibility makes it a versatile option among creamy chicken recipes.
How to Make It Lighter
If you’re looking to lighten up this comfort food dish, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt for a creamy texture with fewer calories. You can also reduce the cheese slightly or use a low-fat version, though the flavor may be less rich.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I Freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake?
Yes, you can freeze this marry me chicken pasta bake! Assemble the dish without baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed. Note that the texture of the pasta may soften slightly after freezing, but the flavors will still shine.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This hearty chicken pasta recipe pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. A slice of garlic bread is also a fantastic addition to soak up the creamy sauce. It’s a complete meal on its own but shines even brighter with light, fresh sides.
Is This Recipe Kid-Friendly?
Absolutely! This marry me chicken pasta is a hit with kids thanks to its cheesy, creamy profile. If your little ones are sensitive to spice, simply omit the red pepper flakes. It’s a great option for family dinner nights when you want something everyone will enjoy.
Dive into the creamy, cheesy goodness of this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake tonight!
Conclusion
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to any table. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy baked top, it’s no wonder this dish has become a favorite among pasta dinner recipes. Whether you’re cooking for a date night or a busy family evening, it delivers on flavor and ease every time.
Ready to give it a try? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and watch as this easy weeknight dinner becomes a staple in your home. Don’t forget to share your results or any creative twists you add—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! For more inspiration, check out other comfort food recipes on the blog.
