One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

This One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is pure dinnertime romance, all in a single skillet. Creamy, tangy, and layered with comforting flavor, it’s the ultimate weeknight meal that feels like an indulgent dinner-date at home—without any fuss or sink full of dishes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is refreshingly short, but every single one plays a crucial role in creating those trademark flavors and creaminess. Let’s take a quick look at why each is worth its spot in the pot!

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, juicy and flavorful after a quick sear and simmer.
• Olive oil and butter: This duo adds depth—oil for searing, butter for silkiness in the sauce.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the entire dish with aromatic warmth.
• Dry white wine (or chicken broth): A splash for deglazing adds brightness and complexity—use broth if you prefer to skip the wine.
• Low sodium chicken broth: Extra liquid to cook the pasta in the same pan, keeping it moist and flavorful.
• Heavy cream: The key to a lush, velvety sauce that binds everything together.
• Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs gives that unmistakable Italian-inspired flavor.
• Red pepper flake: Just a hint for a gentle kick—add more if you like it spicy!
• Medium pasta (penne, fusilli, bowties, etc.): Holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly; choose your favorite shape.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Chopped and packed with tangy umami, they bring color and bold flavor pops.
• Parmesan cheese, freshly grated: Stirred in at the end for salty, nutty richness—fresh really matters here.
• Fresh basil: Just before serving, these bright green ribbons lift the whole dish.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Don’t forget to season at each step for ultimate flavor balance.

Variations

The beauty of One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is how easily you can make it your own. Whether you’re accommodating dietary needs or just craving a twist, there’s plenty of room to play!

• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute sliced mushrooms for chicken, and use vegetable broth for a meatless main that’s just as creamy and satisfying.
• Swap the Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or coconut cream—just expect a slightly thinner sauce and a hint of coconut flavor with the latter.
• Add Veggies: Toss in baby spinach, peas, or roasted bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra boost of color and nutrition.
• Go Gluten-Free: Choose your favorite gluten-free pasta and monitor the simmer time—some types cook quickly and may need a little extra broth.
• Pasta Shape Adventure: Try it with rigatoni, shells, or even orzo to switch up the texture and presentation.

How to Make One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry, then pound them to an even thickness (for even cooking). Generously season both sides with salt and black pepper—don’t be shy, this is your chance to build flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high until shimmering. Add the chicken and sear for about 3 minutes per side, letting the edges turn beautifully golden. Remove chicken to a plate; it doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Turn the heat to medium, then add butter to melt into the pan drippings. Stir in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in the wine or chicken broth, scraping all that good browned-on flavor from the bottom of the skillet.

Step 4: Add Creamy Sauce Ingredients

To the pan, add chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir to combine everything into a luscious, creamy mixture.

Step 5: Simmer with Pasta and Chicken

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then add your dry pasta. Gently nestle the seared chicken breasts on top, partially submerged. Cover with a lid, reduce to a low simmer, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until the pasta is al dente and the chicken is cooked through.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Transfer the chicken to a cutting board. Stir freshly grated parmesan and lots of torn basil into the pasta, seasoning to taste. Slice or chop the chicken, then return it to the pan and gently toss. Serve your One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta piping hot, finished with more parmesan and basil.

How to Serve One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

Finish your skillet of One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta with a shower of freshly grated parmesan, ribbons of basil, and—if you’re feeling fancy—a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes or a swirl of good olive oil for gloss and a gentle kick.

Side Dishes

This pasta shines alongside warm garlic bread, a simple green salad tossed in lemony vinaigrette, or roasted broccoli for a pop of color and crunch. It’s a perfect meal all on its own, but these sides make it a true celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the pasta family-style from the skillet for a cozy, rustic feel, or plate it individually with a dramatic swirl, topped with extra chicken and a shower of basil. For entertaining, transfer to a shallow serving bowl and add a few sun-dried tomato slices and parmesan shavings on top—it’s utterly irresistible!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta keep beautifully! Let extras cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days—the flavors only get better and cozier.

Freezing

This dish freezes surprisingly well, though the sauce may thicken upon thawing. To freeze, portion cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and add a splash of cream or broth if needed.

Reheating

Rewarm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring often. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with a bit of milk, cream, or broth and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parmesan and basil to revive all that original magic.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for love at first bite, give One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta a spot at your table! It’s warm, cozy, and bursting with flavors that might actually earn you a few marriage proposals—so don’t be surprised when everyone goes back for seconds. Enjoy every creamy, dreamy forkful!

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