Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe for Lunch(30-Minute Meal)

Looking for a creamy, comforting, and quick lunch idea that actually feels special? This marry me chicken pasta recipe for lunch is exactly what you need. Made with juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich creamy sauce, this dish has become a favorite in the USA for busy weekdays and cozy family meals.

As someone like me who loves testing simple yet flavorful recipes at home, I can confidently say this easy marry me chicken pasta comes together in just 30 minutes without compromising on taste. Whether you’re craving a creamy chicken pasta or need a reliable, quick chicken pasta lunch recipe, this one is guaranteed to impress from the very first bite.

What Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy pasta dish made with cooked chicken, pasta, and a rich sauce that typically includes cream, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan cheese. The recipe originated as a variation of the popular “Marry Me Chicken” and later evolved into a pasta-based meal commonly searched and cooked in the USA. It is usually prepared on the stovetop and served as a complete, hearty dish.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe for Lunch

There are so many reasons to love Creamy Chicken pasta some of which are followings:

• This marry me chicken pasta recipe is easy to make and perfect for busy weekdays.
• It uses simple ingredients that are easy to find in most kitchens.
• The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken and pasta.
• This recipe works well for both lunch and light dinner meals.
• It can be prepared in about 30 minutes from start to finish.
• The dish is filling, comforting, and family-friendly.

Recipe Time & Servings

Before diving into marry me chicken pasta recipe lets have snapshot of time details.

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings
10 mins	20 mins	30 mins	4

Ingredients You’ll Need for Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe for lunch utilizes simple, easy-to-find ingredients that come together quickly for a creamy, flavorful meal. Each ingredient is chosen to balance flavor, texture, and richness. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this dish a success:

Chicken Breast (200g, diced)

Tender chicken breast is the main protein in this recipe. Dicing it ensures even cooking and allows the creamy sauce to coat every piece perfectly.

Pasta (200g penne or fusilli)

Choose penne or fusilli as they hold the sauce well. Cook it al dente for the perfect bite that blends beautifully with the creamy sauce. I love to add penne one.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes (1 cup, chopped)

These add a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that elevates the richness of the cream sauce. They also bring a vibrant color to the dish.

Onion (1 small, finely chopped)

Onions provide a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, perfectly balancing the creamy sauce and savory chicken.

Garlic (2 cloves, minced)

Garlic adds a fragrant aroma and boosts the overall flavor profile, making the dish irresistible. I am in love with the aroma of garlic.

Heavy Cream (1 cup)

Cream gives the sauce its signature richness and silky texture, making every bite smooth and indulgent.

Chicken Broth (½ cup)

Broth enhances the flavor and helps thin out the sauce to the perfect consistency without losing creaminess.

Olive Oil (2 tbsp)

Used for sautéing chicken and vegetables, olive oil adds a subtle fruitiness and helps prevent sticking.

Paprika (1 tsp)

A pinch of paprika adds mild warmth and color to the sauce, complementing the other ingredients.

Salt (1 tsp, adjust to taste)

Essential for seasoning, salt enhances all the flavors in the dish.

Black Pepper (½ tsp)

Freshly ground black pepper adds a hint of heat and balances the richness of the cream sauce.

Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup, grated)

Parmesan cheese enriches the sauce with a nutty, savory flavor and creates a slightly thicker consistency.

Fresh Parsley (for garnish)

Parsley adds freshness and a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing and vibrant.

How Do You Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

I remember the first time I tried making this marry me chicken pasta recipe for lunch. I was craving something creamy, comforting, and quick after a long morning. From that day, it became my go-to lunch recipe on busy weekdays. Here’s how you can make it too:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 200g of penne or fusilli pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside. I always taste a piece to make sure it has the perfect bite as soft yet firm.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken, Onion and Garlic

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast and cook until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes. The aroma of cooking chicken always makes my kitchen feel so inviting. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant. This step is key for Best marry me chicken pasta. It forms the flavor base for the creamy sauce.

Step 3: Mix in Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Stir in 1 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes. I love how their tangy sweetness immediately brightens up the dish. Cook for another 2 minutes to combine flavors.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and ½ cup chicken broth. Add 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper. Stir gently and let it simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. The kitchen fills with the most comforting aroma at this point.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce with Parmesan Cheese

Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss until every piece is coated in the creamy sauce. I always sneak a small forkful at this stage. It’s impossible to resist. Sprinkle ¼ cup of grated parmesan over the pasta and mix well. The cheese melts into the sauce, making it even creamier and more flavorful.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm. This final touch always makes the dish feel special and Instagram-ready.

Can I Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Ahead of Time?

I know how hectic weekdays can get, and sometimes you just need a lunch that’s ready to go. The great thing about this marry me chicken pasta recipe is that it reheats beautifully without losing its creamy texture.

If I’m prepping for the week, I usually cook the pasta and sauce separately, then combine them just before serving. This keeps the pasta from getting too soft and the sauce stays rich and velvety. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

When it’s time to eat, I simply reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed. It’s still as delicious as when freshly made. Sometimes, I even prefer it as leftovers because the flavors have had time to blend perfectly.

What Can I Serve With Marry Me Chicken Pasta for Lunch?

One of the best things about this Easy marry me chicken pasta recipe is how easy it is to pair with other dishes. I often serve it with Herb and cheese bread – the warm, melty slices soak up the creamy sauce perfectly. For a protein-packed side, beef stir-fry with broccoli works wonderfully. If you want to add some healthy veggies, try air fryer asparagus or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad. For something more colorful and hearty, Peruvian potato salad or Mexican coleslaw are great choices. And for a fun, snack-like option, buffalo cauliflower bites are always a hit with family and friends.

Tips to Make the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Use tender chicken breasts: Always dice chicken evenly to ensure every piece cooks perfectly and absorbs the creamy sauce.
• Cook pasta al dente: Slightly firm pasta holds the sauce better and prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Sauté aromatics properly: Onions and garlic should be cooked until fragrant for a rich, layered flavor.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes: They bring a tangy sweetness that balances the creaminess of the sauce.
• Season gradually: Add salt and pepper in stages, tasting as you go to get the perfect flavor.
• Use heavy cream for richness: Don’t skip it as it makes the sauce silky and indulgent.
• Incorporate parmesan cheese at the end: Melting it last ensures a creamy, cheesy finish without clumping.
• Garnish with fresh parsley: Adds freshness, color, and a subtle herbal note.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry; cook just until golden and tender.
• Adjust sauce consistency: Use a splash of chicken broth or cream to get the sauce just right.

Easy Variations of Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Chicken Pasta Recipe has many variations. Actually its the best thing about this chicken pasta recipe that you can make it according to your own taste. Here are some variations that I tried, and these were so delicious.

Spicy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce for a subtle, warming kick. This variation gives the pasta an exciting twist while keeping it rich and comforting. My husband loves this flavor as he is spice lover.

Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta

Swap regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to make it healthier and more fiber-rich. The sauce still clings beautifully, and it’s perfect for anyone looking for a lighter version. This one is best for diet lovers.

Veggie-Packed Version

For vegetarians, this one is a great option. Toss in spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added color, flavor, and nutrition. This variation works especially well if you want a balanced meal in one bowl.

Quick Rotisserie Chicken Version

Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of fresh chicken breasts for a super quick, no-fuss lunch. It saves cooking time without compromising on the creamy flavor we all love.

Dairy-Free Alternative

For a dairy-free twist, replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free parmesan alternative. This keeps the sauce creamy while making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

For more unique pasta variations and global flavors, I sometimes check Chicken Pasta Recipes for inspiration. They have some creative ideas that pair well with this base recipe.

How Long Does Marry Me Chicken Pasta Last in the Fridge?

I always like to make sure my meals are safe and tasty, especially when prepping in advance. This marry me chicken pasta recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the pasta from becoming mushy, I recommend storing the pasta and sauce separately if possible, then combining them just before reheating. When you’re ready to eat, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Using this method, the creamy texture stays perfect, and the flavors taste just as fresh as when you first cooked it. Personally, I sometimes prefer it as leftovers because the flavors have had a chance to meld beautifully, making each bite extra delicious.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	450 kcal	22%
Total Fat	22 g	28%
Saturated Fat	10 g	50%
Cholesterol	110 mg	37%
Sodium	750 mg	33%
Total Carbohydrates	35 g	13%
Dietary Fiber	3 g	11%
Sugars	4 g	—
Protein	30 g	60%
Vitamin D	0.5 mcg	3%
Calcium	120 mg	9%
Iron	2 mg	11%
Potassium	400 mg	8%

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is creamy, comforting, and quick enough for busy weekdays, yet special enough to impress anyone you serve it to. From tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta to the rich, flavorful sauce, every bite is full of satisfaction. I love making this recipe when I want a fuss-free meal that feels indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen.

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t stop here. You might also love trying other pasta favorites like Chicken Cajun Orzo Pasta for a spicy twist, Hamburger Helper Stroganoff for a hearty, quick dinner, or White Sauce Pasta with No Cream in Alfredo style for a lighter, yet creamy option.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to save it for your next lunch or weeknight meal, and your family will thank you.