Name: One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Love at First Bite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces Chicken Breasts (Lean protein helps create a juicy and flavorful base.); 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour (Dredging chicken ensures a crispy surface; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Adds flavor and helps brown the chicken; use canola oil as a substitute.); 2 tablespoons Butter (Enhances the sauce's richness; can be replaced with more olive oil for a dairy-free option.); 3 cloves Garlic (Provides depth of flavor; garlic powder works in a pinch if fresh is unavailable.); 1 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flake (Adds a touch of heat; adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.); 2 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (Offers flavor without excessive salt; vegetable broth can be a substitute.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Creates a creamy texture; replace with half-and-half for a lighter alternative.); 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes (Infuses a tangy flavor; opt for oil-packed for an extra flavor boost.); 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning (Enhances the flavor profile; dried herbs can be used if fresh isn't available.); 12 ounces Penne Pasta (A hearty and filling base; feel free to substitute with another pasta shape.); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Adds savory depth; use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free topping.); 1/4 cup Fresh Basil (Brightens the dish; substitute with parsley if basil is unavailable.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust to taste.); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust to taste.)

They say the most irresistible flavors can spark love at first bite. That's exactly what you'll experience with my One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta—a meal designed not just to satisfy hunger but to warm hearts. Imagine succulent chicken breasts and al dente penne pasta swimming in a luscious creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Best of all, this comforting dinner recipe is a breeze to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something special without the fuss of multiple pots. Plus, it's sure to impress your family and friends, making it feel like a gourmet affair right in your own kitchen. Are you ready to discover the secret behind this love-inducing dish?

Why Is This Pasta So Irresistible?

Simplicity: This dish comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze and letting you focus on savoring the delectable flavors.

Creamy Indulgence: The rich combination of heavy cream and sun-dried tomatoes creates a luxurious sauce that envelops the pasta and chicken, ensuring every bite is a delight.

Versatile: Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or tofu, or toss in fresh spinach or mushrooms to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings, this meal is sure to impress your guests and even inspire some happy proposals!

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is designed for busy weeknights, delivering comfort food without the hassle.

To complement your dining experience, consider serving it with some classic Cheesy Garlic Chicken or slice up some warm garlic bread on the side. Your loved ones will be coming back for seconds!

One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Ingredients

For the Chicken

Chicken Breasts – Lean protein helps create a juicy and flavorful base for the dish.
All-Purpose Flour – Dredging chicken ensures a crispy surface; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Olive Oil – Adds flavor and helps brown the chicken; use canola oil as a substitute if needed.

For the Sauce

Butter – Enhances the sauce's richness; can be replaced with more olive oil for a dairy-free option.
Garlic – Provides a depth of flavor; garlic powder works in a pinch if fresh is unavailable.
Crushed Red Pepper Flake – Adds a touch of heat; adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Offers flavor without excessive salt; vegetable broth can be a great substitute for a vegetarian version.
Heavy Cream – Creates a creamy texture; replace with half-and-half for a lighter alternative.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Infuses a tangy flavor; opt for oil-packed for an extra flavor boost.
Italian Seasoning – Enhances the flavor profile; dried herbs can be used if fresh isn't available.

For the Pasta

Penne Pasta – A hearty and filling base; feel free to substitute with another pasta shape if desired.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds savory depth; use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free topping.
Fresh Basil – Brightens the dish; substitute with parsley if basil is unavailable.
Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust to taste.

Embrace the joy of cooking with this delightful One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe, where each ingredient comes together in a harmony that will leave tastebuds dancing!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel, then season them generously with kosher salt and black pepper. Next, lightly dredge each piece in all-purpose flour, ensuring an even coating for nice browning. Set the chicken aside while you heat the olive oil for the cooking process, which should be done immediately for the best results.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken
In a large sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers, about 2 minutes. Carefully place the dredged chicken breasts in the hot pan, making sure not to overcrowd them for optimal browning. Sear for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken and set aside on a plate to rest.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Reduce the heat to medium, and add the butter to the same pan. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, stirring for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and slightly golden but not burnt. This will create an aromatic base for your One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Step 4: Create the Sauce
Stir in the low-sodium chicken broth and heavy cream, followed by the sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful browned bits. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, which should take about 3-4 minutes, creating a velvety sauce that will coat the pasta wonderfully.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Once simmering, add the uncooked penne pasta directly into the sauce, ensuring it's submerged. Gently place the browned chicken on top, then cover the pan with a lid. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let everything simmer together for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is tender, and the chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165℉.

Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and slice or dice it, then set aside. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil into the pasta, allowing the cheese to melt into the creamy sauce. Finally, return the chicken back into the pasta, mix well, and serve hot for a comforting meal that showcases the delightful flavors of your One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Make Ahead Options

These One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta meals are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and dredge the chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator; this allows the flour coating to help lock in moisture while cooking. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and seasonings up to 3 days ahead; just store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply heat the sauce in a large pan, add the uncooked pasta directly, and top with the chicken to simmer everything together, ensuring a delightful dish that's just as delicious as if made fresh!

Expert Tips for One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Even Cooking: Ensure chicken is not overcrowded in the pan while browning; this promotes even cooking and a beautiful sear.
Stirring Matters: Stir occasionally while the pasta simmers to prevent it from sticking together. This helps achieve that perfectly creamy texture.
Adjusting Creaminess: If reheating leftovers, use medium-low heat and add a splash of cream to maintain a rich sauce consistency.
Flavor Boost: Experiment with adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor in your One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta.
Fresh Herbs: For the best taste, use fresh basil as a garnish; however, dried herbs can be utilized in a pinch if fresh is unavailable.

What to Serve with One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this creamy, love-inducing pasta with delightful sides that complement its rich flavors.

Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery goodness of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce, adding a satisfying crunch.
Caesar Salad: This classic salad, with its crisp romaine and zesty dressing, offers a refreshing contrast to the pasta's richness.
Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant veggie adds a pop of color and a nutritious touch, balancing the creamy dish beautifully.
Roasted Asparagus: The earthy flavor of roasted asparagus enhances the savory notes of the pasta while bringing a pleasing texture.
White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay will complement the flavors, making your meal feel special and sophisticated.
Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note! A rich chocolate mousse offers a creamy, decadent dessert that mirrors the indulgence of the main course.

Each of these pairings brings its unique textures and flavors to the table, ensuring your One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta shines even brighter!

One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta for a personal touch that delights the taste buds.

Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp or tofu for a delightful twist that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Veggie Boost: Stir in fresh spinach or mushrooms to add a pleasing texture and a burst of nutrition that elevates the whole dish.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make this recipe accessible for those with dietary restrictions while keeping it just as delicious.
Extra Creamy: For an ultra-creamy sauce, swap in mascarpone cheese instead of heavy cream, creating a dreamy texture that's just irresistible.
Spicy Kick: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or toss in some diced jalapeño to elevate the heat level for those who crave a fiery variation.
Herbal Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano instead of basil for a different aromatic experience that adds layers of flavor.

This one-pot wonder is as flexible as it is delicious, just like many of my family favorites, such as One Pot Cheeseburger or Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken. You can also try pairing it with Cheesy Garlic Chicken for a truly comforting experience!

Storage Tips for One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they remain fresh and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before sealing.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream to maintain richness in your One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Avoid Sticking: Stir occasionally while reheating to prevent sticking and to ensure an even, creamy texture throughout.

One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken breasts, look for ones that are plump, firm, and have a pinkish hue, avoiding any with dark spots. For sun-dried tomatoes, opt for those packed in oil as they provide the most flavor. Fresh basil should be vibrant green and free from brown or wilted leaves.

How should I store leftovers?
Very good question! Store any leftovers of your One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you notice the sauce thickening, simply add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to bring back the creamy consistency!

Can I freeze the One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely after cooking. Place it in a freezer-safe container and it can be stored for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a little cream for creaminess.

What if my pasta sticks together during cooking?
No worries! If your pasta starts to stick while cooking, stir it gently every few minutes to keep the pieces separate. If it has already stuck together, add a bit more liquid—a splash of chicken broth or water—and stir it gently to loosen the clumps.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Great question! This recipe contains gluten and dairy. If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, I recommend using gluten-free flour for dredging the chicken and substituting heavy cream with almond milk or coconut cream. Also, make sure to check that the chicken broth is gluten-free for those with gluten sensitivities.

How can I enhance the flavors of the dish?
Very! To give your One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta an extra flavor boost, consider adding vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms while the pasta simmers. Fresh herbs can be sprinkled in before serving, or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the entire dish.