Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe (So Easy & Delicious!)

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is creamy and perfect for busy weeknights, date nights, or when you're craving a comforting homemade dinner.

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 35

Total Time 50

Servings servings

Calories 1112kcal

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the penne according to the package instructions until al dente.
Before draining, reserve about 2½ cups of the pasta cooking water. Set the pasta aside.
Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and pat them dry.
Season with 1 tablespoon of Jacmel Seasoning Blend and 1 tablespoon of Delmas Seasoning Blend to taste.

Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken in a single layer, working in batches if needed. Cook until lightly golden and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
Add the diced shallot, garlic, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook until softened, about 2 minutes or just until fragrant.
Add the tomato paste and stir for 1–2 minutes to deepen its flavor.
Deglaze with ½ cup of the reserved pasta, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release the flavorful browned bits.

Gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly.
Add the remaining ½ tablespoon of Jacmel Seasoning Blend, and red pepper flakes, if using.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the spinach, return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the skillet.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and allow the sauce to gently simmer until slightly thickened.
Stir gently until everything is coated in the creamy sauce.
Add the cooked penne and toss until evenly coated. Gradually add more reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency. Add more cheese to make it creamier if needed.
Finish with the fresh lemon zest and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.

Refrigerator: Allow leftovers to cool, then transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.

Reheating: Warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk, cream, or water. Stir occasionally until heated through.

You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each interval.

Freezing: I prefer enjoying this pasta fresh. Cream-based sauces can separate after freezing and thawing, which changes their texture.

Why is my Marry Me Chicken Pasta sauce too thick?

The pasta absorbs some of the sauce as it sits. Add a little reserved pasta water and stir gently until the sauce loosens.

Can I make this pasta without spinach?

Yes! You can leave the spinach out or replace it with another vegetable, such as sautéed mushrooms.

Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, although it's best served freshly made. If preparing ahead, keep a little extra sauce or liquid available to loosen the pasta when reheating.

*** Calories are estimated per serving/ slice.

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