Merry Me Chicken Pasta – The Best One-Pot Creamy Dinner You’ll Ever Try

I still remember the night I cooked Merry Me Chicken Pasta for the very first time. It was just me, my cast iron pan, and the smell of sun-dried tomatoes filling the kitchen.

I had found a faded note in my grandmother’s old cookbook that read “make this when you want to impress.”

She never called it Merry Me Chicken, but when I took my first bite — creamy, savory, tender — I knew why the name fits. It felt like home, comfort, and love all in one dish.

If any meal could spark a proposal, this would be it.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe — it’s another flavor-packed favorite you’ll want on repeat.

What Is Merry Me Chicken Pasta?

– The Origins and Story Behind the Name

“Merry Me Chicken Pasta” isn’t just a catchy name; it’s a love story on a plate. The name originated when food editors jokingly said this dish was so good, it could trigger a marriage proposal.

Thanks to viral videos and food blogs, the romantic title stuck. It quickly became a favorite because it delivers comfort, creaminess, and crave-worthy flavor.

– Why It’s Gained So Much Popularity

This dish went from a hidden gem to a viral sensation for a reason: it’s easy, creamy, and unforgettable. The blend of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, parmesan, and cream builds a flavor that’s rich without being heavy.

Plus, it’s all made in one pot — fewer dishes, more enjoyment.
Discover great ideas like Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps if you love creamy chicken meals.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor—this Marry Me Chicken Pasta is so irresistible, it just might earn you a proposal!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Italian

Servings 6

Calories 646 kcal

Ingredients

  

Chicken & Pasta

• 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 10 ounces penne pasta
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Creamy Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons garlic minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes drained
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

• Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

• In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
• Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream until smooth. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
• Mix in the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Everything

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce and heated through.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

• Top with freshly chopped basil and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy every comforting bite!

Notes

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 646 kcal
• Carbs: 51g
• Protein: 41g
• Fat: 31g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Cholesterol: 145mg
• Sodium: 962mg
• Potassium: 1248mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 10g
• Vitamin A: 1260 IU
• Vitamin C: 9 mg
• Calcium: 278 mg
• Iron: 3 mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary depending on brands and ingredients used.

Keyword creamy chicken pasta, marry me chicken pasta, romantic dinner

Merry Me Chicken Pasta Ingredients Breakdown

– Chicken Breast: The Heart of the Dish

To get that juicy, tender bite in every forkful, boneless, skinless chicken breast is key.

Cut into bite-sized chunks, they cook quickly and absorb the flavors of garlic, herbs, and that creamy sauce.

The secret? Searing them first for a light golden crust.
Want to switch it up? Try chicken thighs for a richer bite — though traditional recipes stay loyal to chicken breast.

– The Role of Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Garlic

No ingredient transforms Merry Me Chicken Pasta quite like sun-dried tomatoes. They add a deep, slightly tangy sweetness that balances the creamy base beautifully.

Garlic, on the other hand, layers in a robust, savory backbone that rounds out the flavor profile.
Pro tip: Use the oil from the tomato jar to sauté the garlic — it boosts flavor without any extra work.

– Pasta & Cream: What Makes It Truly “Merry Me”

This pasta dish shines with fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni. What you choose affects texture: fettuccine hugs sauce luxuriously, while penne adds chew.

Combine that with double cream (heavy cream in the U.S.) and grated parmesan, and you’ve got a silky, luscious base.
Add a splash of chicken stock for depth and spinach at the end for a touch of color and nutrition.

Don’t miss our homepage recipes where you’ll find more pasta dishes that rival restaurant quality.
Check out our blog section for tips and upgrades for your next creamy meal.

How to Make Merry Me Chicken Pasta Step-by-Step

ALSO READ : Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe – The Ultimate Comfort Food Delight

– Simple Method for Creamy, Flavorful Results

Making Merry Me Chicken Pasta at home is way easier than it looks — and that’s what makes it such a hit. No complicated sauces. No endless dishes. Just one big pan and layers of flavor that come together in less than 30 minutes.

Here’s how to bring this creamy masterpiece to life:

1. Sear the Chicken First
   Start by heating olive oil (or better yet, the oil from your sun-dried tomatoes) in a deep pan over medium heat. Drop in your chopped chicken breast, season it with cracked pepper, and cook for around 5 minutes until you see golden edges.
2. Build the Flavor Base
   Once the chicken is browned, turn down the heat a notch. Toss in crushed garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and paprika. Stir for a few minutes until your kitchen smells like something worth remembering.
3. Add Pasta and Stock
   Next, pour in your dried pasta and chicken stock. Stir it well to coat everything, then pop a lid on and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally — the pasta will cook in the broth while absorbing all those bold, savory flavors.
4. Creamy Finish
   Now drop in your fresh spinach and pour in the cream. Stir until the spinach softens and the sauce turns smooth and dreamy. Once it’s off the heat, mix in grated parmesan — this is where the magic thickens into that signature creamy texture.

– Kitchen Tips to Nail It Every Time

There’s a fine line between soupy and perfect when making Merry Me Chicken Pasta — here’s how to stay on the right side:

• Stir every 5–6 minutes so the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the pan.
• Add a splash of hot water or more stock if things look too dry before the pasta’s fully cooked.
• Use fresh cheese — pre-shredded parmesan often has coatings that prevent melting properly.
• Let the cream heat slowly so it doesn’t curdle — patience = silkiness.

Looking for more cozy weeknight dishes? Check out our flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe — perfect for any comfort food lover.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Merry Me Chicken Pasta

– Skipping the Sear: Don’t Rush the Chicken

We get it — you’re hungry and want dinner fast. But skipping the sear on the chicken is a huge mistake.

Browning the chicken pieces in oil (especially that flavorful sun-dried tomato oil) locks in moisture and adds a savory depth that bland, boiled chicken just can’t match.

Tip: Let the chicken sit undisturbed for a minute or two before flipping. That golden crust? It’s flavor gold.

– Adding Cream Too Soon

One of the worst things you can do to Merry Me Chicken Pasta is pour in the cream when the heat is too high. If you add cream while the pan is still bubbling hot, it can split or become grainy instead of silky. Always wait until after the simmer stage — and reduce heat before adding the cream.

Pro move: Stir the cream in gradually and don’t let it boil once added. Warm, not bubbling — that’s the sweet spot.

– Using Pre-Shredded Cheese

Yes, it’s convenient. But pre-grated parmesan often has anti-caking agents that mess with your sauce’s texture. It doesn’t melt smoothly, and that ruins the creamy finish you’re aiming for in Merry Me Chicken Pasta.

Grate it fresh. Your taste buds will thank you.

– Overcooking the Pasta

Since this recipe cooks the pasta directly in broth, it’s easy to let it go too far. And no one likes mushy noodles.

What to do instead: Set a timer. Stir every 4–5 minutes. Taste as you go. And be ready to pull it off the heat once the pasta is al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

Choosing the Best Pasta for Merry Me Chicken Pasta

– Top Pasta Picks That Make the Sauce Shine

When making Merry Me Chicken Pasta, the type of pasta you choose seriously matters. Not every noodle is built to handle a rich, creamy sauce with tender chicken and bold tomato flavor.

The goal? Choose a shape that grabs the sauce and doesn’t turn mushy during cooking.

Here are a few pasta types that work beautifully:

• Fettuccine – This flat, wide pasta hugs creamy sauces perfectly, making every bite rich and silky.
• Penne – The hollow center traps sauce and chopped chicken, giving you flavor in every bite.
• Rigatoni – With deep ridges and sturdy build, this pasta holds thick sauces like a champ.
• Bowtie (Farfalle) – Its shape creates tiny pockets that catch the creamy sauce well.

All of these work wonders in one-pan recipes like this. They hold their texture during simmering and bring balance to the soft chicken and smooth sauce.

– Pasta Types That Don’t Hold Up

While there’s no “wrong” pasta, some options just don’t deliver the full experience when used in Merry Me Chicken Pasta.

Here’s what to skip:

• Angel Hair – Too thin and fragile. It breaks apart fast in creamy sauces.
• Spaghetti – Lacks the width and structure needed to carry heavier sauce.
• Orzo or Small Shells – These often disappear into the sauce and don’t add enough bite.

If you’re aiming for creamy, cozy, and crave-worthy, stick to pastas that stand up to the richness of the dish.

Want more pasta-perfect pairings? Check out our Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for a melt-in-your-mouth alternative to pasta-based dinners.

Serving Suggestions for Merry Me Chicken Pasta That Impress

– Easy Sides That Complement the Creamy Pasta

Merry Me Chicken Pasta is rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying. To round out the meal, you’ll want side dishes that add contrast in taste and texture. Here’s what works beautifully with this creamy favorite:

• Toasted Garlic Bread
  Nothing soaks up that velvety sauce like a slice of crusty bread with golden garlic butter. It’s simple, yet feels indulgent.
• Zesty Mixed Green Salad
  A light salad with arugula, baby spinach, or spring mix tossed in lemon vinaigrette adds brightness that balances the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables
  Choose crisp, colorful options like carrots, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts. The caramelized edges bring depth without overpowering the meal.
• Blistered Cherry Tomatoes
  A quick sauté or roast adds a juicy, tangy burst that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

– Drinks That Take It Up a Notch

Pairing the right drink can turn Merry Me Chicken Pasta into an experience — not just a meal.

• Crisp White Wines – Think Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. Their acidity cuts through the cream and refreshes the palate.
• Chilled Rosé – Perfect for sunny days or romantic evenings — it’s soft, fruity, and food-friendly.
• Sparkling Water with Citrus – A non-alcoholic option that feels elegant and keeps the flavors balanced.

If you’re going for casual or full-on date night vibes, these drinks and sides make sure your pasta dinner feels complete and unforgettable.

Don’t miss our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe — another dish that pairs beautifully with salads, bread, or wine for an effortless meal.

How to Store and Reheat Merry Me Chicken Pasta Without Losing Creaminess

– Storing It the Right Way

Leftovers of Merry Me Chicken Pasta are just as dreamy — if you store them correctly. Because it’s a cream-based dish, a little care keeps the sauce from separating or drying out.

Here’s how to do it:

• Let It Cool First
  Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can turn the sauce watery in the fridge.
• Use Airtight Containers
  Store in a sealed glass or plastic container to lock in moisture and protect the sauce’s consistency.
• Fridge Life
  It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Any longer, and the cream might start to break down.
• Freezing? Not Ideal
  Cream sauces don’t always freeze well. If you must freeze it, expect some texture changes — thaw slowly in the fridge and stir in a little extra cream when reheating.

– Reheating Without Ruining the Sauce

The biggest risk when reheating Merry Me Chicken Pasta is drying out the sauce or turning it into an oily mess. But with a few simple steps, you can bring it back to its silky, creamy glory.

Stovetop (Best Method):

1. Add a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth to a pan.
2. Toss in the leftover pasta.
3. Heat on low, stirring constantly until warmed through.
4. Don’t let it boil — just gently warm it to avoid splitting the sauce.

Microwave (Quick Fix):

1. Place in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Add a spoonful of liquid (milk or broth).
3. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or wrap.
4. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between until fully warmed.

Pro Tip: Add a touch of grated parmesan at the end of reheating to revive the flavor and creaminess.

Want more cozy meal ideas with easy leftovers? Try our creamy Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps — just as comforting, and just as easy to reheat.

Frequently Asked Questions About Merry Me Chicken Pasta

– What ingredients go into Merry Me Chicken Pasta?

This creamy dish is built from a simple but powerful combination: seared chicken breast, crushed garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, double cream, parmesan cheese, and pasta. Toss in a handful of spinach at the end, and you’ve got the perfect one-pan meal that’s rich, satisfying, and absolutely loaded with flavor.

– Why is it called “Merry Me” Chicken?

The name was born from a food editor’s joke — they claimed this chicken was so delicious, it could lead to a proposal. Over time, that joke became the title of the dish. One bite of Merry Me Chicken Pasta, and it’s easy to see why it stuck. The balance of creamy, garlicky sauce and tender chicken really does win hearts.

– Can I swap fettuccine with penne pasta?

Yes, you can! While fettuccine is popular for this recipe, penne is just as good. Its shape holds creamy sauces well, capturing pieces of chicken and tomato in each bite. Rigatoni and bowtie pasta are also excellent choices if you want more texture.

– Is this pasta recipe considered spicy?

Nope. Merry Me Chicken Pasta isn’t naturally spicy. It’s rich, creamy, and savory. That said, you can easily spice it up with a pinch of crushed red pepper or a splash of hot sauce if you want a little heat. But the base recipe keeps things mild and comforting.

– Can I prepare it in advance?

Definitely. You can make it ahead and refrigerate it for up to three days. Just reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to bring the creaminess back. While it’s best served fresh, it still holds up well for meal prep or next-day leftovers.

– Are there gluten-free or dairy-free versions?

Yes, you can tweak Merry Me Chicken Pasta to suit dietary needs. Swap regular pasta for gluten-free noodles, and use plant-based cream and cheese for a dairy-free version. It might taste a little different, but it can still be creamy, rich, and full of flavor.

Final Thoughts – Why Merry Me Chicken Pasta Is Always a Yes

If you’ve been searching for a dish that’s comforting, creamy, and just a little bit magical, Merry Me Chicken Pasta is it. With every bite, it delivers rich flavor, tender chicken, and that perfect balance of savory garlic and sun-dried tomato. It’s simple enough for weeknights, yet impressive enough for special occasions — and the best part? It all comes together in one pan.

Whether you’re cooking for someone you love or just treating yourself, this dish brings joy to the table. So go ahead — pour the wine, light a candle, and let this pasta work its charm.

Don’t miss our full collection of delicious comfort meals in the Cooking Recipes Blog — you’ll find more one-pot winners that everyone will crave.