Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to impress guests. Made with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, this pasta is cooked all in one pot for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. It’s comforting, satisfying, and earns its romantic name with every bite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breastsolive oilgarlic clovesonionchicken brothheavy creamParmesan cheesesun-dried tomatoes (in oil)pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended)Italian seasoningsaltpepperred pepper flakes (optional)fresh basil (for garnish)

directions

Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear until golden on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté chopped onion and garlic until fragrant.

Add sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

Add uncooked pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to pasta package time, usually 10-12 minutes, until pasta is al dente and sauce has thickened.

Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the pot. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.

Taste and adjust seasoning, adding red pepper flakes if desired.

Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness.

Substitute spinach or kale for added greens.

Try it with fettuccine or farfalle instead of penne.

Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.

Make it dairy-free using coconut cream and vegan Parmesan.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

What makes it “Marry Me” Chicken?

The rich, creamy, and savory flavors are so good that people say it’s worthy of a marriage proposal!

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just add it in during the final steps to avoid overcooking.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini hold the sauce well.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, but the pasta may absorb some of the sauce. Add a little cream when reheating.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s mildly spiced. Add more red pepper flakes if you prefer heat.

Can I freeze it?

Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

How do I keep the sauce creamy?

Stir constantly while cooking and avoid overcooking the sauce or cheese.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, skip the chicken and add more veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.

What can I serve with it?

A fresh green salad and crusty bread pair perfectly.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just use a larger pot and adjust cooking time slightly.

Conclusion

One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta brings rich flavor and creamy indulgence in a single pan. Whether you’re making it for a loved one or treating yourself to something delicious, this dish delivers comfort and elegance in every forkful. With easy steps and bold flavors, it’s sure to earn a spot in your go-to recipe rotation.