1-First Step: Cook the pasta Start by cooking the 10 ounces of penne pasta according to the package instructions. Use a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta until it is al dente, which means it should still have a little bite. This usually helps the pasta hold up better when it is mixed into the sauce later. Once it is done, drain it and set it aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.

2-Second Step: Season and cook the chicken Cut 1 ½ pounds of boneless skinless chicken into 1-inch pieces. Season the chicken with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken in a single layer if possible. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring now and then, until the pieces are cooked through and lightly browned. A meat thermometer should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest piece. When the chicken is done, move it to a plate and set it aside.

3-Third Step: Build the sauce base Use the same skillet so you keep all those tasty browned bits in the pan. Add 3 tablespoons butter and let it melt over medium heat. Stir in 2 teaspoons minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Next, add 3 tablespoons flour and stir until it forms a paste. This helps thicken the sauce and gives it a smooth texture. If you want a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry instead.

4-Fourth Step: Add the creamy ingredients Slowly whisk in 2 cups chicken broth, 1 cup heavy cream, and 1 cup grated parmesan cheese. Keep whisking as the sauce comes together so it stays smooth and does not clump. Once the mixture is combined, stir in 1 cup drained sun-dried tomatoes, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning. These ingredients give Marry Me Chicken Pasta its signature flavor. If you like a little kick, this is a good time to add red pepper flakes.

5-Fifth Step: Simmer until thick Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes, stirring often. It should thicken enough to coat the back of a spoon. Taste the sauce and add a little more salt or pepper if needed. If you want the sauce even richer, you can stir in a small spoonful of tomato paste. That can deepen the color and add extra body without changing the comfort-food feel of the dish.

6-Sixth Step: Bring everything together Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Stir everything well so the pasta and chicken get fully coated in the sauce. If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water. If it seems too thin, let it cook for another minute or two. This step is where the dish becomes creamy, glossy, and ready to serve.

7-Final Step: Garnish and serve Spoon the pasta into bowls and top with chopped fresh basil. You can also add a little extra parmesan cheese on top if you want even more cheesy flavor. Serve the dish right away while it is hot and creamy. This meal works well on its own, but it also pairs nicely with salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.