One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Quick & Creamy One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Succulent and creamy one pot marry me chicken pasta has become my latest culinary obsession.

Weeknight dinners demand something special that doesn’t require endless cleanup.

pasta lovers understand the magic of simplified cooking techniques that pack maximum flavor into minimal effort.

Chefs worldwide have embraced this delightful dish for its straightforward preparation and impressive results.

Perfect for date nights or casual gatherings, this recipe promises to charm everyone around the table.

Comfort meets elegance in each delectable bite, making meal preparation a joyful experience.

Come discover why this pasta will steal hearts and satisfy hunger in one delicious swoop.

Kitchen Tips For Marry Me Chicken Pasta

  • Boost flavor by using homemade chicken broth for richer taste. Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quicker cooking and easier preparation. Add extra red pepper flakes if you prefer more heat in the dish. Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently to maintain pasta's creamy texture.

Flavor Twists For Marry Me Chicken Pasta

  • Mediterranean Fusion: Replace diced tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes, add kalamata olives, and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese for a Greek-inspired version.
  • Spicy Southwest Style: Substitute Italian seasoning with taco seasoning, add corn kernels, black beans, and top with cilantro and pepper jack cheese for a zesty southwestern flair.
  • Creamy Mushroom Lovers: Incorporate sliced cremini or shiitake mushrooms during garlic sautéing, use mushroom broth instead of chicken broth, and finish with truffle oil for an earthy, rich flavor profile.
  • Protein Power Boost: Swap chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken or ground turkey, add spinach or kale during final cooking stage, and mix in protein-packed nutritional yeast for extra nutrition.

Suggested Complements For Marry Me Chicken Pasta

  • Date Night Dinner Spotlight: Transform this dish into a romantic meal by dimming lights, using elegant white plates, and adding a crisp white wine pairing. Candlelight creates instant intimacy while making the creamy pasta look irresistible.
  • Cozy Family Comfort Feast: Serve family-style in a large rustic serving dish, letting everyone scoop their own generous portions. Top with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes for personalized heat levels kids and adults will love.
  • Quick Weeknight Meal Prep: Pack individual portions in meal prep containers for easy lunch or dinner during busy workdays. The pasta reheats beautifully and stays creamy, making it perfect for grab-and-go meals that taste homemade.

Storing Marry Me Chicken Pasta Correctly

  • Store leftover Marry Me Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Warm refrigerated pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore moisture. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly and prevent drying out.

FAQs

  • Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the pasta with alternatives like penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine. Just ensure the cooking time remains similar to the original recipe.

  • Is this dish spicy?

The red pepper flakes add a mild heat. You can reduce or omit them for a less spicy version, or increase them if you prefer more kick.

  • Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. The texture and flavor will be slightly different.

  • What chicken cuts work best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy eating.

One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Essentials

One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Essentials
  • Simplify Meal Prep: Toss ingredients into the crock pot and let it work its magic, creating a delicious one-pot meal with minimal hands-on cooking.
  • Burst with Bold Flavors: Cajun seasoning and creamy cheeses combine to deliver a rich, spicy taste that transforms ordinary chicken pasta into an exciting dining experience.
  • Family-Friendly Comfort: Hearty and satisfying, this recipe pleases both kids and adults with its creamy texture and crowd-pleasing pasta base, making dinner time a breeze.
  • Versatile Dish for Any Occasion: Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings, this adaptable recipe scales easily and impresses without complicated techniques.

Ingredients For Marry Me Chicken Pasta

For the Protein:
  • Chicken Breasts: A tender and lean protein that becomes the star of this one-pot meal.
For the Pasta Base:
  • Pasta: A hearty base that absorbs the creamy sauce and creates a satisfying main dish.
For the Liquids and Creams:
  • Chicken Broth: Provides a rich, savory foundation for the pasta sauce.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds luxurious creaminess and helps create a smooth, velvety texture.
For the Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Garlic: Brings a sharp, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall dish.
  • Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds depth and traditional Italian flavor.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Introduces a subtle heat and slight kick to the recipe.
For the Cheese and Herbs:
  • Parmesan Cheese: Offers a salty, nutty flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
  • Fresh Basil: Provides a bright, fresh garnish that adds color and herbal notes.
For the Pantry Staples:
  • Olive Oil: Used for cooking and adding a mild, fruity undertone.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
  • Diced Tomatoes: Adds moisture and a slight tangy sweetness to the dish.

Cooking Instructions For Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Cooking Instructions For Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken pieces.

Cook the chicken until it develops a golden-brown crust on both sides. Transfer the cooked chicken to a separate plate and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until it becomes aromatic and slightly golden. The remaining oil and chicken drippings will infuse extra flavor into the garlic.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the following ingredients to the skillet:
  • Chicken broth
  • Heavy cream
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Italian seasoning
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Uncooked pasta

Stir everything together to combine and ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the liquid.

Step 4: Simmer and Cook

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta will cook and absorb the creamy, flavorful liquid.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese into the pasta and stir. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and heat for an additional 2 minutes.

Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter them over the top. Serve hot directly from the skillet for a comforting, one-pot meal.

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One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe


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4.9 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy one pot marry me chicken pasta brings together tender chicken and al dente pasta in a luxurious sauce. Parmesan, herbs, and sun-dried tomatoes create an irresistible dish you’ll want to savor again and again.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tbsps olive oil
  • 2 chicken breasts, cubed
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups uncooked penne pasta
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 can diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tsps Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet or pot over medium-high heat, then sear seasoned chicken pieces until golden and crisp on all sides, approximately 5-6 minutes. Transfer chicken to a separate plate.
  2. Reduce heat to medium and sauté minced garlic until aromatic, releasing its fragrant essence into the pot.
  3. Pour chicken broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes into the pot. Sprinkle Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes for robust flavor profile.
  4. Add uncooked pasta directly into the liquid mixture, ensuring all pasta is submerged. Stir thoroughly to prevent sticking.
  5. Increase heat and bring liquid to a gentle boil, then immediately lower temperature and cover the pot. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta reaches perfect al dente texture.
  6. Fold in grated Parmesan cheese, creating a creamy and rich sauce. Return previously cooked chicken to the pot and gently mix to combine all ingredients.
  7. Allow mixture to rest for 2 minutes, enabling flavors to meld and sauce to slightly thicken.
  8. Finish by scattering freshly chopped basil leaves across the top for a vibrant, aromatic garnish. Serve piping hot directly from the pot.

Notes

  • Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in flavor and creates a delightful texture.
  • Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and prevent the dish from becoming too salty.
  • For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt to reduce calories while maintaining creamy richness.
  • Make it vegetarian by replacing chicken with plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas, which absorb the incredible sauce perfectly.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 610 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 580 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
Maya Thompson

Maya Thompson

Culinary Content Creator & Nutrition Enthusiast

Expertise

Healthy single-serving recipes, Meal prepping for individuals, Integrating nutrition into everyday cooking, Vegetarian and plant-based cuisine​

Education

The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Nutrition, meal planning, and culinary techniques for healthy living.


Maya found her passion in the kitchen by mixing good food with good energy. After earning her culinary degree at The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College, she made it her mission to keep cooking simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor.
At Steelhead Diner, Maya shares easy, healthy recipes built for real life. For Maya, great food seems like a celebration of everyday moments, made better one fresh bite at a time.

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