Irresistible One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe That Wows

Culinary magic happens when you whip up this irresistible marry me chicken pasta that could spark romance at first bite.

Creamy textures and bold flavors dance together in a single skillet, creating a meal that feels both luxurious and effortless.

Tender chicken nestles among perfectly cooked noodles, promising a dining experience that transcends ordinary weeknight dinners.

Parmesan cheese melts into a silky sauce, coating each strand with rich, comforting goodness.

Mediterranean-inspired ingredients blend seamlessly, delivering a dish that whispers sweet promises with every forkful.

Subtle herbs and a hint of garlic elevate this recipe from simple to spectacular.

You won’t be able to resist falling head over heels for this delectable pasta that might just make someone propose.

FAQs

  • How do I know when the chicken is properly cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). When cut, the chicken should be white throughout with no pink areas.

  • Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine. Just ensure the cooking time remains similar to accommodate the pasta’s size and thickness.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the recipe contains regular pasta. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and verify that your chicken broth and other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

  • What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative.

One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Flavor-Packed And Easy To Love

  • Quick Weeknight Hero: Transforms a simple chicken dinner into a gourmet meal with minimal effort and just one pot to clean.
  • Flavor-Packed Convenience: Combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta in a single, satisfying dish that delivers restaurant-quality taste at home.
  • Time-Saving Magic: Goes from raw ingredients to delicious meal in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy families or last-minute dinner solutions.
  • Customizable Comfort: Easily adaptable with optional spice levels, cheese variations, and protein substitutions to suit different taste preferences and dietary needs.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Full Ingredient Set

Protein Base:
  • Chicken Breasts: Tender meat that forms the protein core of the dish, boneless and skinless work best for even cooking.
  • Chicken Broth: Provides rich, savory liquid base that enhances overall flavor profile.
Seasoning Blend:
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for fundamental flavor enhancement.
  • Garlic Powder: Adds deep, concentrated garlic flavor throughout the dish.
  • Italian Seasoning: Brings classic Mediterranean herb notes to the pasta.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Optional spicy element for those who enjoy heat.
Creamy and Aromatic Components:
  • Garlic Cloves: Fresh, pungent aromatics that provide intense garlic flavor.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates luxurious, smooth texture and richness.
  • Diced Tomatoes: Adds bright, tangy element and slight acidity to balance cream.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Provides salty, nutty depth and helps thicken sauce.
  • Fresh Basil Leaves: Delicate herb for garnish and fresh flavor finish.
Pasta and Cooking Elements:
  • Penne Pasta: Classic tube-shaped pasta that holds sauce beautifully.
  • Olive Oil: Essential for initial cooking and preventing sticking.

Method for One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Warm Up the Skillet

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Season chicken pieces generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

Step 2: Golden Brown Chicken

Sear chicken until it develops a beautiful golden-brown color on both sides, cooking for about 5 minutes.

Transfer the chicken to a temporary plate.

Step 3: Fragrant Garlic Moment

Drop minced garlic into the same pot and sauté until it releases its aromatic magic, cooking for approximately 1 minute.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Base

Add these ingredients to the skillet:
  • Chicken broth
  • Heavy cream
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Uncooked pasta

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

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the chicken pieces back to the pot.

Allow everything to cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Wait until the pasta becomes tender and the sauce transforms into a luxurious, thick consistency.

Step 6: Final Flavor Boost

Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes.

Taste and adjust seasonings as you desire.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Scatter fresh basil leaves on top.

Serve the pasta piping hot and watch everyone fall in love with this delightful dish.

One Pot Chicken Pasta That’s Creamy From Start to Finish

  • Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a golden, crispy exterior that locks in flavor and creates beautiful caramelization.
  • Choose short pasta like penne or rotini to help sauce cling better and ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
  • Lower heat when adding cream to prevent separation and maintain a smooth, silky texture that coats every ingredient beautifully.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to control heat level – use less for mild flavor or more for a spicy kick that wakes up your taste buds.
  • Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version that keeps the creamy texture and adds a subtle tropical hint to the recipe.

Reheat Chicken Pasta In One Pot Easily

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator, ensuring the pasta remains fresh and flavorful.
  • Gently warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore moisture and prevent drying.
  • Heat in short 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly and maintain the dish's creamy texture.
  • This creamy pasta doesn't freeze well due to potential sauce separation and texture changes, so enjoy within a few days of cooking.

Complements for Marry Me Chicken Pasta

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the creamy, rich flavors of the chicken pasta, cutting through its richness with bright, zesty notes.
  • Fresh Arugula Salad: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, adding a peppery, tangy contrast to the creamy pasta and helping balance the dish's heavier elements.
  • Garlic Herb Focaccia Bread: Serve warm, crusty focaccia alongside the pasta to soak up the delicious sauce, providing a perfect textural companion that enhances the meal's overall experience.
  • Mediterranean Cucumber Salad: Prepare a quick cucumber salad with red onions, dill, and a light vinegar dressing to introduce a cool, refreshing side that cuts through the pasta's richness.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta in One-Pot Creamy Comfort

  • Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a similar cheesy flavor.
  • Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added depth of flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta like brown rice or chickpea pasta. Ensure all seasonings and broth are certified gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Spicy Kick Variation: Increase red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños for extra heat. Incorporate smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to elevate the spice level for heat lovers.
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One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe


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4.6 from 26 reviews

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

Description

Creamy “marry me chicken pasta” promises culinary romance with its irresistible blend of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan. Hungry souls will fall in love at first bite, eager to savor this simple yet luxurious one-pot wonder that sparks instant devotion.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 23 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into chunks)

Seasonings and Spices:

  • Salt (to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Cooking Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 can (14 ounces / 400 grams) diced tomatoes (drained)
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) penne pasta (uncooked)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat a spacious skillet or culinary vessel over moderate temperature, coating the surface with olive oil.
  2. Create a robust seasoning blend for the chicken using aromatic salt, ground pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herb mix.
  3. Carefully position chicken pieces into the heated oil, allowing each side to transform into a golden-brown crust through strategic searing.
  4. Extract the perfectly seared chicken and temporarily reserve on a separate plate.
  5. Introduce minced garlic into the identical cooking vessel, releasing its intense fragrance through quick sautéing.
  6. Cascade chicken broth, velvety heavy cream, and vibrant diced tomatoes into the pan, incorporating uncooked pasta with a thorough stirring motion.
  7. Gently reintroduce the previously seared chicken back into the liquid-infused mixture.
  8. Allow the ensemble to simmer gently, periodically stirring to prevent ingredient adhesion, until pasta reaches tender perfection and sauce develops a luxurious thickness.
  9. Elevate the dish’s complexity by folding in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a whisper of red pepper flakes.
  10. Perform a final seasoning assessment, adjusting flavors to personal preference.
  11. Adorn with delicate, torn fresh basil leaves and present immediately while radiating warmth.

Notes

  • Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner protein option that cooks quickly and evenly.
  • Customize heat levels by adjusting red pepper flakes; start with a pinch for mild spice or add more for extra kick.
  • Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley to brighten the dish’s flavor profile and add vibrant color.
  • Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for lighter or dairy-free variations that maintain creamy texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 60 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 150 mg
James Walker

James Walker

Lead Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southern Cuisine & Farm-to-Table Cooking, Recipe Development & Testing, Culinary Education & Instruction​

Education

School: Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts

Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts and Operations

Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern culinary techniques, kitchen operations, and farm-to-table practices. ​


James didn’t learn cooking from a TV show, he learned it from busy kitchens, family gatherings, and long afternoons spent testing recipes the hard way.
After training at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, he brought his love for real, down-to-earth food to every dish he makes.
At Dining At Home, James loves building recipes that feel familiar but still have something special, like adding a twist to a classic or making a slow Sunday dinner feel brand new.
When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll probably find him swapping garden tips at the farmers’ market or teaching his daughter how to flip pancakes without a mess (almost).

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