One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

The Perfect One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe For Date Night

Creamy, indulgent, and packed with flavor, this one pot marry me chicken pasta will make anyone fall head over heels.

The irresistible blend of tender chicken and rich, velvety sauce creates a meal that speaks straight to the heart.

Parmesan cheese and herbs dance together, creating a symphony of taste that promises to impress.

Weeknight dinners become extraordinary with this simple yet decadent recipe.

Each bite delivers comfort and passion on a single plate.

You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together with minimal cleanup.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta, Why It’s a Favorite

  • Simplify Weeknight Cooking: This one-pot wonder eliminates multiple dishes and complicated cooking steps, making dinner preparation a breeze for busy home cooks.
  • Packed with Flavor Punch: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning creates a rich, restaurant-quality meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
  • Family-Friendly Comfort: Creamy pasta with tender chicken appeals to both kids and adults, making it a crowd-pleasing dish that satisfies everyone at the dinner table.
  • Quick Gourmet Experience: Transform ordinary ingredients into an impressive meal in less than 30 minutes, perfect for impressing guests or treating your family to a delicious homemade dinner.

One Pot Chicken Pasta Ingredient List

Main Proteins:
  • Chicken Breasts: Tender and lean protein that adds substance and flavor to the pasta dish.
Dairy and Cream Components:
  • Heavy Cream, Parmesan Cheese: Create a rich and creamy sauce that coats the pasta with luxurious texture.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Garlic, Italian Seasoning, Salt, Pepper: Provide depth and aromatic seasonings that elevate the overall taste profile.
Liquid Base:
  • Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and intensifies the savory chicken flavor throughout the dish.
Pasta Component:
  • Pasta: Serves as the hearty base that absorbs the creamy sauce and complements the chicken.
Additional Flavor Ingredients:
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Contribute a tangy and concentrated tomato flavor that adds complexity to the dish.
Finishing Touch:
  • Fresh Basil: Brings a bright, fresh herb note that cuts through the richness of the creamy sauce.
Cooking Fat:
  • Olive Oil: Provides a base for searing the chicken and adds a subtle fruity undertone to the dish.

How to Make One Pot Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sizzle Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat olive oil in a large pot.

Carefully place chicken breasts and cook until they develop a beautiful golden-brown color on both sides.

Transfer the chicken to a temporary plate, keeping those delicious juices intact.

Step 2: Awaken the Garlic

In the same pot, add minced garlic and sauté until its aromatic fragrance fills your kitchen, releasing all its delightful flavors.

Step 3: Create a Creamy Flavor Explosion

Combine the following ingredients into the pot:
  • Chicken broth
  • Heavy cream
  • Sun-dried tomatoes
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Stir everything together, creating a rich and luxurious sauce that promises incredible taste.

Step 4: Cook Pasta to Dreamy Tenderness

Pour pasta directly into the creamy sauce.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and cook while stirring occasionally until the pasta reaches that perfect al dente texture.

Step 5: Reunite Chicken with Its Sauce

Slice the golden chicken breasts into beautiful strips.

Gently return them to the pot, allowing them to warm through and soak up all the incredible flavors.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the top.

Serve the pasta piping hot, ready to make everyone at the table swoon with delight.

Tips for Creamy Marry Me Pasta

  • Pat chicken breasts dry before cooking to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust that locks in moisture and adds incredible flavor.
  • Stir pasta occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
  • Use room temperature heavy cream to help it blend smoothly and prevent potential curdling when mixing with other ingredients.
  • Crush dried Italian seasoning between your fingers before adding to release more aromatic oils and enhance the overall flavor profile.
  • Swap regular pasta with gluten-free or whole wheat options, and use lactose-free cream for those with dietary restrictions.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Twists and Options

  • Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a creamy, vegan-friendly version.
  • Gluten-Free Friendly: Swap regular pasta with gluten-free penne or chickpea pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
  • Spicy Kickback: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to create a zesty, heat-packed rendition of the classic recipe.
  • Lighter Option: Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream and swap chicken breasts for lean chicken tenderloins to reduce overall calories.

Serving Marry Me Chicken Pasta Warm

  • Party Plate Presentation: Create a stunning dish by arranging the creamy pasta on a large white platter, strategically placing sliced chicken on top with fresh basil leaves scattered for a restaurant-quality look.
  • Rustic Comfort Serving: Serve directly from the pot with warm crusty bread on the side, allowing guests to soak up the delicious creamy sauce and enjoy a cozy, family-style meal.
  • Wine Pairing Delight: Complement the rich, creamy pasta with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light Chardonnay to balance the dish's savory flavors and enhance the overall dining experience.
  • Quick Side Suggestion: Add a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to provide a fresh, crisp contrast to the hearty and indulgent chicken pasta.

Storage Advice for Chicken Pasta Leftovers

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container, keeping the pasta and chicken separate if possible, for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Transfer cooled dish to freezer-safe containers, seal tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months, preventing freezer burn by removing excess air.
  • Place portion in microwave-safe dish, sprinkle few tablespoons of water or chicken broth to prevent dryness, cover with microwave-safe lid, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until warmed through.
  • Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding splash of chicken broth or cream to restore moisture, stirring gently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

FAQs

  • What ingredients make this dish creamy?

Heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create the rich, velvety sauce that coats the pasta and chicken perfectly.

  • Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or shells that will hold the sauce well.

  • Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! The one-pot format makes it easy to prepare ahead and reheat throughout the week for quick meals.

  • How can I make this dish healthier?

Use low-fat cream, reduce the cheese amount, or substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version without losing flavor.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 39 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy, indulgent one pot marry me chicken pasta promises culinary romance with its irresistible blend of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan. Simple ingredients and effortless preparation guarantee a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

Seasonings and Flavoring:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Pasta and Additional Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) pasta (penne or rigatoni)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Sear chicken breasts in a large pot with olive oil until golden brown on each side, then transfer to a plate.
  2. In the same pot, sauté minced garlic until aromatic and lightly golden.
  3. Pour chicken broth, heavy cream, and add sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, whisking to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
  4. Introduce pasta into the liquid mixture, ensuring all pieces are submerged, and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  5. Cover the pot and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring periodically to prevent pasta from sticking, until pasta reaches al dente consistency.
  6. Slice the reserved chicken into thin strips and nestle them back into the creamy pasta mixture.
  7. Allow chicken to reheat for 2-3 minutes, absorbing the rich, flavorful sauce.
  8. Sprinkle freshly chopped basil leaves over the dish for a vibrant, aromatic finish.
  9. Serve immediately while hot, ensuring each portion has a generous mix of creamy pasta, tender chicken, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Notes

  • Ensure chicken is at room temperature before searing to achieve a perfect golden-brown crust without overcooking the inside.
  • Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for a richer, more authentic flavor that elevates the entire dish.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt to reduce calories while maintaining creamy texture.
  • Make this recipe gluten-free by using alternative pasta like chickpea or zucchini noodles, keeping the same delicious flavor profile.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Natalie Brooks

Natalie Brooks

Co-Founder & Content Strategist

Expertise

  • Vegan and plant-based recipe creation
  • Meal planning and nutritional analysis
  • Storytelling through blog content, video, and social media

Education

eCornell

  • Program: Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate
  • Focus: Whole-food, plant-based cooking, with a foundation in nutritional science and sustainable eating habits.

Natalie brings the vibrant, plant-powered side to Culinary Duo. After earning her Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate from eCornell, she combined her love for fresh ingredients with a passion for storytelling, aiming to make healthy cooking simple and satisfying.
Her kitchen motto: good food doesn’t need a fancy label, it just needs fresh ideas and a little creativity. Outside of writing and recipe testing, Natalie’s happiest in her garden, exploring farmers’ markets, or mixing global flavors into new kitchen experiments.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star