Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines everything you want in a cozy meal—juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta—all in one pot. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy depth, while parmesan and cream create a luxurious texture. It’s quick enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for special occasions, with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken breast
pasta
olive oil
garlic
chicken broth
heavy cream
parmesan cheese
sun-dried tomatoes
Italian seasoning
red pepper flakes
salt
black pepper
fresh basil
Directions
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth, heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Add uncooked pasta and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pot and mix well.
- Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
Swap chicken for shrimp for a seafood version. Add spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables. Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter option. You can also add a splash of white wine for extra depth of flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency. Stir well before serving.
FAQs
Why is it called “Marry Me” chicken pasta?
The name comes from how delicious and impressive the dish is—people joke it’s good enough to inspire a proposal.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Yes, thighs are juicier and work very well in this recipe.
What pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli works best for holding the sauce.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can substitute with plant-based cream and cheese alternatives, though the flavor will differ.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild kick from red pepper flakes, but you can adjust or omit them.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers are great additions.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best fresh. Reheat with extra liquid to keep it creamy.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Let it simmer longer or add more parmesan cheese.
Can I freeze this dish?
Cream-based sauces may separate when frozen, so it’s not recommended.
What can I serve with it?
Garlic bread or a fresh green salad pairs perfectly.
Conclusion
One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich, creamy, and irresistible dish that’s perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. With simple ingredients and bold flavor, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
PrintOne Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, indulgent dish with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and pasta in a rich garlic parmesan sauce. It’s a comforting, flavor-packed meal perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- chicken breast
- pasta
- olive oil
- garlic
- chicken broth
- heavy cream
- parmesan cheese
- sun-dried tomatoes
- Italian seasoning
- red pepper flakes
- salt
- black pepper
- fresh basil
Instructions
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and cook chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth, heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Add uncooked pasta and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.
- Return cooked chicken to the pot and mix well.
- Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Swap chicken for shrimp for a seafood variation.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Reheat with a splash of broth or cream to maintain consistency.
- Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 670 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Fat: 34 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
