One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

There’s something magical about a dish that combines juicy, seared chicken with tender pasta, all simmered together in a creamy, flavorful sauce. This One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the kind of meal that wins hearts with every bite.

I discovered this recipe on a chilly evening when I needed something quick yet comforting for my family. What started as a simple experiment turned into a dish so good that my husband jokingly called it "marry me chicken" – because it was love at first bite. Now it’s a weekly staple in our house!

Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a spot on your table.

Why You'll Love This One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for this effortless and crowd-pleasing recipe. This One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is here to simplify dinner without sacrificing flavor.

First and foremost, it’s a one-pot wonder! No need to juggle multiple pans or spend time scrubbing dishes afterward. The entire meal cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

The flavor is irresistible. The combination of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce creates a dish that’s rich, tangy, and oh-so-satisfying.

This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from romantic dinners to weeknight family meals. It’s a great way to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Lastly, it’s incredibly adaptable. Whether you want to add more veggies, swap the protein, or use gluten-free pasta, this dish is endlessly versatile.

Ready to create a meal your loved ones will ask for again and again? Let’s start with the ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple yet well-chosen ingredients. Each one adds a unique layer of flavor and texture to the dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their tenderness and ease of preparation. Chicken thighs also work well if you prefer a richer flavor.
• Pasta: Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or bowtie works best for this recipe. Their shapes hold the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: These are the stars of the show! They bring a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• Heavy cream and chicken broth: The base of the sauce combines these two ingredients to create a creamy yet light consistency. Feel free to substitute half-and-half for a lighter option.
• Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results. It melts beautifully into the sauce, adding a nutty, salty flavor.
• Seasonings: Garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning add a punch of flavor to every bite.

You’ll also need a large skillet or Dutch oven for this recipe – preferably one with a lid.

How to Make This One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Creating this dish is as easy as it is delicious. Follow these simple steps to bring this recipe to life.

1. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them on both sides until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. Build the flavor base: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, letting them soften slightly and release their flavor.
3. Add the liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the pasta: Add your uncooked pasta directly into the skillet, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
5. Finish with chicken and cheese: Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the skillet. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
6. Garnish and serve: Top with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and watch it disappear!

From start to finish, this dish takes about 35 minutes – perfect for busy nights or last-minute gatherings.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though that’s rare in my house!), this dish stores beautifully for future meals.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Note that the sauce may separate slightly upon reheating.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious. Here are a few ideas to customize it:

• Vegetarian option: Swap the chicken for mushrooms or chickpeas. You’ll still get a hearty, flavorful meal.
• Spicy kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to spice things up.
• Cheese swap: Try Pecorino Romano or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different cheesy flavor.
• Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta’s package instructions.
• Extra veggies: Toss in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrients and color.

Experiment with these ideas to make the dish truly your own!

This One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect recipe for when you want a comforting, flavorful meal without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a date night or a family dinner, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! 🌟

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