Total Cooking Time: ~55 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy–Medium
If there’s one dish that truly lives up to its viral reputation, it’s Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors, this cozy casserole combines tender chicken, pasta, and a luxurious sun-dried tomato cream sauce that’s baked until bubbling and golden. The moment it comes out of the oven, the aroma of garlic, herbs, cream, and Parmesan fills the kitchen—and it’s impossible not to fall in love.
This recipe is special because it turns the beloved “Marry Me Chicken” into a comforting baked pasta that’s perfect for sharing. It’s rich without being overwhelming, indulgent yet familiar, and surprisingly easy to pull together. Every bite delivers creamy sauce, juicy chicken, and melty cheese with just enough tang from sun-dried tomatoes to keep things balanced.
Serve this for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy weekends when you want something a little extra.
Estimated Calories: ~560 per serving (varies by pasta and cheese amounts)
🧄 Key Ingredients
Each ingredient plays a role in creating that irresistible, crave-worthy flavor:
- Pasta (Penne or Rigatoni) – Holds up to the creamy sauce and bakes beautifully.
- Chicken Breast or Thighs – Juicy, tender protein that anchors the dish.
- Olive Oil – Helps sear the chicken and adds richness.
- Butter – Forms the base of the creamy sauce.
- Garlic – Brings bold, savory aroma and flavor.
- Onion or Shallot – Adds subtle sweetness and depth.
- Heavy Cream – Creates the luxurious sauce texture.
- Chicken Broth – Balances the cream and adds savory flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese – Nutty, salty richness essential to the sauce.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Adds gooey, melty comfort on top.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Tangy, slightly sweet flavor that defines the dish.
- Italian Seasoning – Brings classic herb notes.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Optional heat to balance the richness.
- Salt – Enhances all flavors.
- Black Pepper – Adds warmth and contrast.
- Fresh Basil or Parsley – Brightens and finishes the dish.
🍳 How to Make It (Step-by-Step Method)
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside. - Sear the Chicken
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F / 74°C). Remove, rest briefly, then slice or cube. - Build the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. - Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits. Add heavy cream and sun-dried tomatoes. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. - Add Cheese and Chicken
Reduce heat and stir in Parmesan until smooth. Add cooked chicken and stir to coat. - Assemble the Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Combine pasta with the sauce and transfer to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the top. - Bake and Rest
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake is best served hot and bubbling, straight from the oven. Bring the baking dish to the table for a cozy, family-style presentation that instantly draws everyone in. The golden cheese on top, creamy sauce underneath, and pops of red from the sun-dried tomatoes make it as beautiful as it is comforting.
For individual servings, scoop portions into shallow bowls and finish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil. This makes it feel a little more elevated—perfect for casual dinner guests or a cozy at-home date night. Pair it with garlic bread, focaccia, or warm rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
To balance the richness, serve alongside a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. This dish is filling on its own, but simple sides make the meal feel complete and thoughtfully prepared.
🧊 Storage + Meal Prep
Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers especially delicious.
To reheat, cover and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions. Add a splash of cream or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
This pasta bake can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Freeze before or after baking, tightly wrapped. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Add fresh herbs and a sprinkle of cheese after reheating to refresh the dish.
❤️ Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake truly earns its hype. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor—one of those dishes that feels special every time you make it. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers cozy satisfaction in every bite.
Feel free to customize it with spinach, mushrooms, or extra spice. If you give it a try, share how it turned out—this is the kind of recipe that’s meant to be loved, shared, and made again and again.
