If you have ever dreamed of a dish that’s rich, creamy, and packed with fresh flavors that make your heart flutter, then you’re going to adore this Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach Recipe. It’s a hearty, soul-satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, a luscious tomato cream sauce, vibrant spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a harmony of taste and texture that feels like a warm embrace on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a date night or just craving something special, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds and maybe even a proposal!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building that irresistible flavor and comforting texture. From the tender chicken breasts to the fresh spinach, every element combines to create a balanced and vibrant dish.
- 2 boneless (skinless chicken breasts): These provide the juicy, lean protein center of the dish, perfectly absorbing the sauce’s flavors.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken and sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a hint of fruitiness and helps sear the chicken to a beautiful golden brown.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Enriches the sauce with creamy smoothness and depth.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic, savory notes that awaken the palate.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Brings the signature luxurious creaminess to the sauce, making it rich and comforting.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Lightens and balances the cream, adding subtle savory undertones.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped): Powers the sauce with bursts of tangy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Offers a fragrant herbal brightness.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a Mediterranean earthiness and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Perfect for a gentle, warming kick if you like a bit of heat.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, adding nuttiness and umami depth.
- 8 ounces pasta (such as fettuccine or penne): The hearty base that soaks up every drop of the delicious sauce.
- 3 cups fresh spinach: Introduces freshness and color, gently wilting into the sauce for a nutrient boost.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning those beautiful chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides—simple yet crucial for flavor. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add your chicken. Cook each side for 5 to 7 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through, locking in all the juicy goodness. Remove them from the skillet and set aside—you’ll bring them back soon!
Step 2: Make the Sauce
Using the same skillet that holds all those savory chicken juices, melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant, about a minute—don’t let it burn, you want that perfect aroma to shine through. Then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, and for those who want a little spark, a pinch of red pepper flakes. Bring this dreamy mix to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly and coats your spoon beautifully.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While your sauce is bubbling away, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. This ensures a perfect bite that will hold up when tossed with the rich sauce. Drain the pasta and keep it ready for the magic that’s coming.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Slice your rested chicken breasts into silky strips, then slide them back into the creamy sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese—it will melt into the sauce, elevating it with nutty, tangy richness. Finally, add the fresh spinach, stirring just until it wilts gently, infusing the dish with vibrant color and a fresh note that balances the cream beautifully.
Step 5: Mix with Pasta
It’s time for the grand union! Add your drained pasta directly into the skillet, tossing everything together to ensure each strand and bite is coated in that dazzling sauce, flecked with savory chicken and bright spinach. The colors, textures, and flavors meld wonderfully here, ready to shine on your dinner plate.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach Recipe piping hot. Sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese or fresh basil on top if you like—it adds a lovely finishing touch that will impress any guest or family member.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes turns a delicious meal into a feast for the eyes. Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese make perfect toppings, lending pops of green and savory sparkles that elevate every bite.
Side Dishes
This dish stands beautifully on its own but pairing it with a crisp side salad or garlic bread can round out the meal wonderfully. A bright arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a warm, buttery loaf of garlic bread complements the creamy sauce and tender chicken superbly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a wow factor, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls and garnish with edible flowers or a drizzle of infused olive oil. Everyone loves a little extra love in presentation that makes dinner feel like a special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit, but fresh spinach is best eaten soon after cooking for optimal taste and texture.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible, though the cream sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. If you want to freeze, cool the pasta completely and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to help the sauce come back together.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce’s texture. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to keep everything creamy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for the Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach Recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or penne works beautifully, feel free to use rigatoni, linguine, or even fusilli. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to hold up well against the creamy sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The sauce might taste a bit different but will still be wonderfully creamy and flavorful.
How spicy is the Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach Recipe?
The red pepper flakes are optional, so you can control the heat. Without them, the dish is mild and comforting, perfect for all palates. With them, it gains a gentle warmth that pairs nicely with the creamy sauce.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a dinner party?
You can prep the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time, then reheat everything gently and toss with fresh pasta right before serving. This helps the flavors meld while keeping the spinach fresh and vibrant.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp, unoaked Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce and tender chicken without overpowering the delicate spinach notes.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach Recipe that makes it a cherished favorite—I hope you find it as delightful as I do. Warm, creamy, and bursting with flavor, it’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary night into an occasion worth savoring. So grab your skillet and get ready to fall in love bite after delicious bite.
Print
Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, tossed with pasta and fresh spinach. This comforting meal is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner and ready in about 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta and Greens
- 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 3 cups fresh spinach
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Slice the cooked chicken into strips. Add the chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and cheese melts.
- Mix with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce and to distribute the chicken and spinach.
- Serve: Serve the Marry Me Chicken Pasta hot, topped with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- Use chicken breasts that are even in thickness for uniform cooking.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil provide richer flavor, but drained dry tomatoes can also be used.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to desired spiciness.
- Fresh basil makes an excellent garnish to brighten the flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
