Quick and Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Sizzling One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe That Sparks Joy

Comfort meets romance in this irresistible one pot marry me chicken pasta that promises to steal hearts instantly.

Creamy sauce and tender chicken create a magical dining experience anyone would adore.

Bold flavors dance together, promising a meal that speaks volumes without saying a word.

Weeknight dinners just got a serious upgrade with this simple yet impressive dish.

Each forkful delivers a delightful combination of herbs, tender chicken, and luxurious sauce.

Minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction make this recipe a total game-changer for busy home cooks.

You might want to have a backup batch ready – trust me, seconds are inevitable.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the pasta with other varieties like penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine. Just ensure cooking times match the specific pasta you choose.

  • Is this recipe spicy?

The red pepper flakes add a mild heat. If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount or omit them completely. For more heat, increase the red pepper flakes.

  • Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace chicken with plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

  • How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Check labels carefully to avoid hidden gluten sources.

One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Details

  • Simplify Cooking: Dive into a one-pot wonder that eliminates multiple dishes and complex cooking steps, making dinner preparation a breeze.
  • Flavor Explosion: Combine rich ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, creamy parmesan, and zesty red pepper flakes for a restaurant-quality meal packed with bold, comforting tastes.
  • Family Crowd-Pleaser: Create a satisfying pasta dish that appeals to both kids and adults, offering a perfect balance of protein, carbs, and creamy sauce that everyone will love.
  • Quick Weeknight Solution: Prepare a delicious meal in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy families needing a fast and nutritious dinner option without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients for One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Protein:
  • Chicken Breast: A lean and tender meat that provides the main protein source for this creamy pasta dish.
Dairy and Cheese:
  • Parmesan Cheese: A hard, salty cheese that adds rich flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious and smooth sauce base with a velvety texture.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps develop a deeper flavor profile.
Herbs and Seasonings:
  • Garlic: Provides a sharp and aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
  • Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that adds depth and traditional Italian flavor.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Introduces a subtle heat and spicy kick to the pasta.
  • Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance and balance the flavors of the chicken and sauce.
  • Fresh Basil: A bright, herbaceous garnish that adds a fresh finish to the dish.
Base and Liquid Ingredients:
  • Pasta: The hearty base of the recipe that absorbs the creamy sauce.
  • Chicken Broth: Provides additional flavor and helps cook the pasta.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Adds a concentrated, tangy sweetness to the sauce.
  • Olive Oil: Used for cooking the chicken and preventing sticking.

How to Make One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sizzle the Chicken

Brown the chicken in a large pot with olive oil over medium heat. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Cook until the chicken develops a beautiful golden crust. Transfer the chicken to a separate plate and set aside.

Step 2: Create Aromatic Base

Melt butter in the same pot and add:
  • Minced garlic
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Italian seasoning

Saute the ingredients until they release a mouthwatering fragrance that fills your kitchen.

Step 3: Build the Pasta Foundation

Introduce these ingredients to the pot:
  • Sun-dried tomatoes
  • Chicken broth
  • Heavy cream
  • Uncooked pasta

Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Simmer and Soften

Cover the pot and let the pasta cook for 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

The pasta will become tender and absorb all the delicious flavors.

Step 5: Finish with Cheesy Goodness

Return the cooked chicken to the pot and sprinkle in parmesan cheese.

Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce transforms into a creamy, luxurious coating.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top.

Serve the pasta piping hot, ready to win hearts with its incredible flavor.

Tips for One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Success

  • Opt for chicken breasts pounded to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking and tender results.
  • Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version that still maintains creamy texture.
  • Toast red pepper flakes briefly in the pot before adding other ingredients to enhance their smoky, spicy flavor profile.
  • Experiment with different pasta shapes like penne or fusilli to add visual interest and texture variation.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, gently reheating with a splash of chicken broth to restore sauce consistency.

Flavor Variations for One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

  • Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
  • Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños for those who love extra heat, or use smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
  • Mediterranean Remix: Substitute sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers, add kalamata olives, and use feta cheese instead of parmesan for a Greek-inspired variation.

Pairing Suggestions for One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

  • Romantic Date Night Feast: Create an intimate dinner experience by serving this pasta on elegant white plates with soft candlelight, perfect for impressing your special someone.
  • Cozy Family Comfort Meal: Pair the dish with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread, making it a delightful weeknight dinner that everyone will love and devour quickly.
  • Potluck Party Showstopper: Transport the one-pot pasta in a beautiful serving dish to gatherings, ensuring it stays warm and becomes the star of the buffet table with its creamy, rich flavors.
  • Meal Prep Champion: Portion leftovers into individual containers for easy lunch options during the week, keeping the flavors fresh and providing a satisfying midday meal that breaks up monotonous workdays.

Storage Advice for One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Cool the pasta completely before storing to avoid condensation and soggy texture.
  • Transfer to a sealed glass or plastic container, ensuring minimal air exposure.
  • Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore moisture and prevent drying out.
  • Microwave as an alternative: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly.
  • For best results, consume within 2 days and avoid repeated reheating to preserve taste and texture.
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Quick and Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Quick and Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe


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4.8 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy one pot marry me chicken pasta blends Italian-inspired flavors with irresistible comfort. Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and tender chicken create a romantic meal you’ll want to share with someone special.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese

Main Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) penne pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Seasonings and Extras:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)

Instructions

  1. Sear chicken pieces in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat until achieving a rich golden-brown exterior, approximately 4-5 minutes per side. Season with salt and pepper during cooking. Transfer to a separate plate.
  2. Reduce heat to medium and introduce butter into the identical skillet. Incorporate minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning, creating an aromatic foundation for the dish.
  3. Introduce sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir ingredients thoroughly to create a harmonious liquid base.
  4. Add uncooked pasta directly into the liquid mixture, ensuring each strand is submerged. Allow the contents to reach a gentle simmer.
  5. Cover the skillet and let the pasta cook for 12-14 minutes, occasionally stirring to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Verify pasta reaches an al dente consistency.
  6. Reintegrate the previously cooked chicken into the creamy pasta mixture. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese and gently fold until the cheese dissolves and sauce develops a luxurious, velvety texture.
  7. Finish the dish by scattering fresh basil leaves across the top. Serve immediately while the pasta remains hot and sauce is creamy.

Notes

  • Swap chicken for tofu or plant-based protein to create a vegetarian version that maintains the creamy, flavorful profile of the dish.
  • Control spice levels by adjusting red pepper flakes, making it kid-friendly or extra zesty depending on preference.
  • Choose low-sodium broth and reduce added salt for a heart-healthier option without compromising rich taste.
  • Slice chicken and chop garlic beforehand to streamline cooking process and reduce total time in the kitchen.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 567 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 33 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 115 mg
John Conley

John Conley

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Writing, Home Cooking Techniques, Seasonal Ingredient Utilization​

Education

Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
​Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and menu planning.

​Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY
Course in Food Writing
Explored the art of crafting engaging culinary narratives and recipe development.


John grew up where food meant connection: big bowls, warm kitchens, and meals that told a story. After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Lane Community College and diving deep into food writing at Gotham Writers Workshop, he found his calling: turning everyday recipes into something worth savoring.
At The Liffey, John’s focus is all about crafting dishes that feel easy, honest, and full of heart.

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