One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tenderness, creaminess, and the irresistible flavors of Italian cuisine into one convenient pot. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, promising to leave everyone asking for seconds—and some might even declare their love for your cooking!
Why make this recipe
This One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring only one pot for cooking, which means less mess and easier cleanup. Second, it combines a variety of flavors—from the rich creaminess of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the sweet and tangy taste of sun-dried tomatoes—making it a hit for any occasion. Finally, this dish is versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences and ingredient substitutions, allowing you to make it your own. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table.
How to make One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Making this delectable dish is not only simple but also a fun culinary adventure! Follow the steps below to whip up a plate of One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 oz (225g) penne pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/3 cup (80g) sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup (10g) fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
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Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they are golden but not fully cooked. Remove the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
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In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed. Then add the diced onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
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Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Add the uncooked pasta and stir to combine.
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Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is almost al dente.
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Return the partially cooked chicken to the pot, nestling it into the pasta. Continue simmering uncovered for 2-3 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
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Reduce the heat to low, stir in the heavy cream and lemon zest, and allow the sauce to simmer gently for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the pasta.
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Remove the pot from the heat and stir in most of the fresh basil, reserving some for garnishing. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
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Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan and the reserved fresh basil.
Pro Tips for Success One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
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Cut your chicken uniformly: To ensure even cooking, make sure your chicken pieces are cut into similar sizes.
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Adjust the spice level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether.
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Fresh herbs make a difference: While dried herbs will work in a pinch, using fresh basil enhances the flavor significantly.
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Cream alternatives: If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider substituting the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.
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Add veggies: Incorporating spinach or bell peppers during cooking can boost nutritional value and add color to your dish.
Flavor Variations One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
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Add seafood: For a twist, try adding shrimp or scallops for a seafood version of this dish.
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Use different cheeses: Experiment with other cheese varieties like mozzarella or feta for a different flavor profile.
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Veggie lovers version: Replace chicken with a mix of your favorite vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a delightful vegetarian pasta.
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Tomato-based sauce: Replace the heavy cream with diced tomatoes for a dairy-free option that adds a fresh tang to the dish.
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Herb-infused oil: Drizzle some basil or parsley oil over the top before serving for added flavor and presentation.
Serving Suggestions One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This scrumptious One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is delightful on its own, but it pairs beautifully with several accompaniments:
- Garlic bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up the rich sauce.
- Salad: A light mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Wine: Pair your dish with a glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, for an elevated dining experience.
Storage and Freezing Instructions One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare!), here’s how to store and freeze this dish:
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Refrigeration: Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the dish in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
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Reheating: To reheat, you can place it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce. Stir until heated through.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|———-|——–|
| Calories | 540 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbs | 53g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
FAQ About One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?
If you’re not keen on sun-dried tomatoes, you can use roasted red peppers or a mix of cherry tomatoes instead. Both will add a lovely sweetness and tanginess to the dish.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days. Just reheat on low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy texture.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and portion it into individual containers for quick, easy meals throughout the week.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a simple substitution.
What can I serve with One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
This dish pairs well with various sides like garlic bread, a fresh salad, or even a simple sauté of seasonal vegetables for a balanced meal.
Final Thoughts
One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort to any table. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant flavors, it’s sure to become a household favorite. By following the straightforward instructions and incorporating your personal touches, you can create a meal that’s not only delicious but also memorable. Enjoy every moment spent cooking and sharing this delightful dish!
Print
One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dish combining tenderness, creaminess, and the irresistible flavors of Italian cuisine into one convenient pot, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 oz (225g) penne pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/3 cup (80g) sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup (10g) fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they are golden but not fully cooked. Remove the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed. Then add the diced onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Add the uncooked pasta and stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is almost al dente.
- Return the partially cooked chicken to the pot, nestling it into the pasta. Continue simmering uncovered for 2-3 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Reduce the heat to low, stir in the heavy cream and lemon zest, and allow the sauce to simmer gently for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the pasta.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in most of the fresh basil, reserving some for garnishing. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan and the reserved fresh basil.
Notes
For best results, cut chicken pieces uniformly and use fresh herbs. Adjust spice level to taste and consider adding veggies for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian