There's nothing like the cozy, comforting aroma of creamy chicken pasta filling your kitchen. This One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe delivers all the flavor of a fancy dinner, but it’s so simple that it comes together in just one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen.
I discovered this recipe while experimenting with combining my two favorite things—creamy pasta and flavorful, tender chicken. The result? A dish so good, it might just make someone fall in love with you. Let’s dive in and make this irresistible meal.
Why You'll Love This One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Get ready to meet your new go-to dinner recipe. This pasta is the ultimate blend of ease, flavor, and versatility, making it a hit with everyone.
First, it’s unbelievably easy to make. Everything cooks in one pot—yes, even the pasta! That means fewer dishes, less cleanup, and more time to enjoy your meal.
The flavor is out of this world. Tender chicken is seared to perfection, paired with a creamy, Parmesan-infused sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s rich, hearty, and utterly satisfying.
If you’re cooking for a crowd, this recipe is a lifesaver. It’s budget-friendly and can easily feed a group without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s customizable to fit different tastes or dietary needs.
Finally, this dish is versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a romantic dinner, this pasta delivers every time. Ready to get cooking? Let’s start with the ingredients.
Ingredients Notes

This dish shines because of its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make it and a few tips to ensure the best results.
Chicken thighs or breasts are the stars here. Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving, but if you prefer leaner meat, chicken breasts work perfectly too. Be sure to cut them into even pieces for consistent cooking.
Sun-dried tomatoes bring a tangy, slightly sweet depth to the sauce. Look for ones packed in oil for the best flavor, and don’t forget to use a bit of the oil for sautéing—instant flavor boost!
Heavy cream and chicken broth are the base of the sauce. The cream gives it richness, while the broth keeps it light enough to avoid being overly heavy. You can use half-and-half if you prefer a lighter option.
Pasta is cooked right in the sauce for maximum flavor absorption. Short shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best as they hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
Parmesan cheese is key to that luscious, cheesy finish. Use freshly grated for the best melt and flavor—pre-shredded won’t give you the same silky texture.
For equipment, all you need is a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven with a lid. This ensures everything cooks evenly in one pot.
How To Make This One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Creating this flavorful pasta is a breeze. Follow these simple steps to bring it all together in no time.
Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning, then sear them in the hot pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown, then set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes in the leftover oil. The aroma alone will have everyone running to the kitchen! Cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add your dry pasta. Stir well to ensure the pasta is submerged, then cover and let it cook over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and allow the pasta to soak up the creamy sauce.
Once the pasta is al dente, return the chicken to the skillet along with a generous handful of Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the chicken is heated through. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
The whole process takes about 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for busy weeknights!
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (though that’s rare with this dish!), here’s how to store and reheat them.
Transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months, but the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing.
When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Heat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to prevent drying out.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adapt it to your preferences or dietary needs.
- Swap the chicken for shrimp or turkey for a twist on the classic.
- For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Experiment with different cheeses, like Pecorino Romano or Gruyere, for a unique flavor profile.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make it celiac-friendly—just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Don’t be afraid to get creative. The beauty of this recipe is how adaptable it is.
With its one-pot convenience, bold flavors, and comforting appeal, One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Enjoy every creamy, delicious bite!
PrintOne Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
This One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is a quick and creamy meal combining tender chicken, pasta, and a savory sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cubed
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add cubed chicken and cook until golden.
- Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth, heavy cream, diced tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add uncooked pasta. Cover and cook until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper, garnish with fresh basil, and serve warm.
Notes
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Use any pasta shape of your choice.
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. ¼ of recipe)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
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