Name: Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 3 boneless skinless chicken thighs; 3/4 tbsp smoked sweet paprika; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; 3/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp sun dried tomato oil (from the jar of sun dried tomatoes); 12 oz farfalle pasta; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp dried shallots; 2 tbsp minced garlic; 1 tbsp minced onion; 3 tbsp Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 gluten free flour; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded parmesan; 1/4 cup diced sun dried tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 cup diced spinach; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp smoked sweet paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; Chopped fresh basil

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 3 reviews

If you have ever been on the lookout for a dish that brings together rich flavors, creamy textures, and a splash of vibrant color, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe will quickly become your go-to comfort meal. It’s the perfect blend of tender chicken thighs seasoned just right, tossed with bowtie pasta, and enveloped in a luscious, garlicky tomato cream sauce that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones or treating yourself to something truly special, this recipe promises a beautiful balance of simple ingredients with incredible taste that you won’t forget.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with raw pieces of marinated chicken, coated evenly with a thick reddish-brown spice mix with visible dried herbs and pepper flakes. The chicken is stacked unevenly in about two layers, showing juicy texture with some oily shine from the marinade. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and a woman’s hand is partly visible in the corner holding the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is key to making this dish sing, and luckily, the components are straightforward but pack a punch. Each item plays a vital role, from the smoky paprika that adds depth to the chicken, to the parmesan’s creamy, cheesy goodness that ties the whole sauce together.

3 boneless skinless chicken thighs: These offer juicy, tender meat that soaks up all the spices beautifully.
3/4 tbsp smoked sweet paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness with a hint of sweetness that enhances the chicken flavor.
1 tbsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that infuses the dish with classic Italian vibes.
3/4 tsp salt: Balances and brings forward all the natural flavors.
1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds just the right mild heat for a subtle kick.
1 tbsp sun dried tomato oil: Packed with intense tomato flavor and perfect for searing the chicken.
12 oz farfalle pasta: Bowtie pasta holds sauce beautifully and offers a fun shape to each bite.
2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics to perfection.
2 tbsp dried shallots: Provide a sweet onion flavor that’s gentle yet aromatic.
2 tbsp minced garlic: Essential for that signature savory punch.
1 tbsp minced onion: Balances the garlic with a little fresh crunch and sweetness.
3 tbsp gluten free flour: Thickens the sauce to a creamy, dreamy consistency.
2 cups chicken broth: Builds a flavorful base for the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream: Brings a luscious, velvety texture and smoothness.
1 cup shredded parmesan: Melts into the sauce for irresistible cheesiness.
1/4 cup diced sun dried tomatoes: Deliver bursts of concentrated tangy sweetness.
2 tbsp tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavors for a richer sauce.
1 cup diced spinach: Adds freshness and a stunning pop of color.
1 tbsp Italian seasoning: Sprinkles extra herbal notes throughout the sauce.
1/2 tsp smoked sweet paprika: Echoes the smoky flavor to unify the dish.
1/2 tsp salt: Complements the sauce and balances the tomatoes and cream.
Chopped fresh basil (for garnish): Brings brightness and a fragrant finish.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by washing your chicken thighs, then carefully pat them dry so that the seasoning sticks perfectly. Coat each piece evenly with smoked sweet paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to build layers of savory flavor from the very beginning.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Warm the sun dried tomato oil in a large skillet until shimmering, then add the chicken. Sear each side for about 3 minutes until golden and fragrant. This step locks in juices and gives a beautiful crust that enhances the taste and texture, making every bite amazing.

Step 3: Cook Chicken Through

Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let the chicken cook gently for 6 to 10 minutes. Checking that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees ensures it’s perfectly safe and tender. Then, set the chicken aside to cool while you move on to the next steps.

Step 4: Boil the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to boil and cook the farfalle according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set it aside—this pasta shape is perfect for catching the creamy sauce later on.

Step 5: Create the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat, and sauté the dried shallots, minced onion, garlic, sun dried tomatoes, and tomato paste along with Italian seasoning, salt, and smoked sweet paprika. Stir for about 2 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and the flavors start to bloom, which makes the sauce irresistibly aromatic.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

Add the gluten free flour and stir continuously to form a roux that will thicken the sauce perfectly without clumps. Then, pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and diced spinach. Cook gently until the sauce thickens slightly and the spinach wilts, creating a creamy and colorful mixture.

Step 7: Add Cheese and Combine

Stir in shredded parmesan, allowing it to melt into the sauce for a rich, cheesy finish. Dice the cooled chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it into the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Mix gently so everything is coated evenly with the luscious sauce.

Step 8: Final Touches

Top with fresh chopped basil for a fragrant, fresh burst that elevates the whole dish into something truly special. This final flourish adds not only flavor but also a gorgeous visual appeal.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

The image shows a black pan filled with creamy farfalle pasta mixed with small pieces of cooked meat and bright green spinach leaves. The pasta is coated in a thick, orange-colored sauce with visible herbs and spices, giving it a textured look. A wooden spoon is partially visible stirring the pasta on the right side. The pan sits on a wooden table with a white marbled surface visible around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley work wonders here, adding a fresh, aromatic lift that perfectly balances the rich creaminess of the sauce. A little cracked black pepper on top can also add a subtle warmth that brings every bite together beautifully.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with light, crisp salads such as a simple arugula with lemon vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. These sides bring brightness and texture contrast to the creamy main dish, making the meal feel complete and well-rounded.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe in shallow bowls with a sprinkle of parmesan and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. You could even offer lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over the top, adding a fresh zing that awakens the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce will continue to soak into the pasta, intensifying the flavor even more after resting overnight. Just make sure to reheat gently to keep the creaminess intact.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, though cream-based sauces sometimes separate upon thawing. For best results, freeze the chicken and pasta separately from the sauce if possible. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat slowly on the stove, stirring frequently to regain creaminess.

Reheating

Reheat the pasta gently over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving at high heat, which can cause the sauce to split. A gentle stove-top warm-up maintains all the flavors and textures perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work but keep in mind they are leaner and cook a bit faster. Be careful not to overcook to keep them juicy and tender. You may want to slightly reduce the cooking time during the searing and simmering steps.

Is this recipe gluten free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten free flour and ensure the chicken broth is gluten free, this recipe is safe for gluten-sensitive diners. The rest of the ingredients naturally contain no gluten, making it a delicious option for those avoiding wheat.

What type of pasta works best?

Farfalle or bowtie pasta is ideal because it holds the creamy sauce in its folds perfectly. However, you can substitute with penne, rigatoni, or fusilli if you prefer. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it’s firm to the bite and doesn’t get mushy in the sauce.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream, and replace parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast. The texture and flavor will change slightly but still remain rich and satisfying.

How long does it take to prepare from start to finish?

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe can be whipped up in about 25 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Final Thoughts

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe truly deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation. It’s a dish that feels fancy but comes together so easily, packed with layers of flavor and a creamy sauce that feels both comforting and exciting. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience all the deliciousness that has made it a personal favorite time and again. Happy cooking and even happier eating!