Easy One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Creamy & Irresistible)

If you’re craving something creamy, comforting, and downright delicious, this Easy One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta might just be your new go-to weeknight dinner. With tender chicken, rich parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes swimming in a dreamy cream sauce, it’s easy to see why this dish has become such a viral favorite. Best of all? It’s made entirely in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy the meal.

This pasta is perfect for romantic dinners, cozy nights in, or anytime you want to impress someone (even if it’s just yourself!). One bite, and you’ll understand the name—this dish is so good, it just might inspire a marriage proposal!

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

To create this magic, you’ll need simple pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. Here’s what brings the magic to life:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
• Olive oil for searing
• Garlic cloves, minced (fresh is best!)
• Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for deep, tangy flavor
• Chicken broth as the base of the sauce
• Heavy cream for that velvety richness
• Penne pasta, or any short pasta you love
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese for ultimate creaminess
• Italian seasoning for a herby, savory boost
• Red pepper flakes (optional) for a gentle kick
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for a bright finishing touch

Why This Dish Works So Well

There’s a reason this dish has become a staple for so many home cooks. The chicken brings protein and heartiness, the pasta makes it comforting, and the creamy sauce ties everything together in one rich, cohesive bite. The sun-dried tomatoes give just the right touch of sweetness and tang to balance the richness of the cream and cheese.

And since it all cooks in one pot, the pasta absorbs the flavors of the sauce as it simmers, giving every bite that deliciously infused taste. No need to boil noodles separately or dirty a bunch of dishes!

Instructions

You’ll love how easy this is! Just follow these simple steps:

1. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then add to the pan. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. Build the flavor: In the same pot, add the minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1–2 minutes, just until the garlic becomes fragrant and everything smells amazing.
3. Make the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
4. Add the pasta: Stir in the uncooked penne, reduce the heat to a simmer, and let it cook uncovered for 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will cook directly in the sauce, absorbing flavor while thickening everything beautifully.
5. Finish the dish: Once the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, stir in the parmesan cheese. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot, tossing everything together until coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Serve and garnish: Turn off the heat and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the magic!

Tips and Tricks

• Use freshly grated parmesan. It melts better and adds a sharper, more authentic flavor than the pre-shredded kind.
• Go slow with the heat. Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer when cooking the pasta—too high and it may reduce too fast or curdle.
• Adjust the thickness. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream while stirring.
• Try a Dutch oven. A heavy-bottomed pot helps distribute heat evenly and reduces the risk of burning or sticking.

Variations

This recipe is super flexible. Here are a few fun twists to try:

• Swap the protein: Use shrimp or even rotisserie chicken for a faster meal.
• Try different pasta: Rigatoni, fusilli, or even shells all work well.
• Add veggies: Stir in spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for a pop of green.
• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or even diced jalapeños if you like heat.
• Make it dairy-free: Use full-fat coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of cream and cheese.
• Go vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add mushrooms or chickpeas instead. Use veggie broth in place of chicken broth.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with:

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Roasted or steamed vegetables
• Garlic bread or a crusty baguette to mop up the sauce
• A light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay (if you enjoy wine with your meal)

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Storage Instructions

Let any leftovers cool completely before storing. This dish keeps well, making it great for meal prep.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: While the creamy sauce may separate a bit, it can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat gently and stir well.
• Reheating: For best results, warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring the sauce back together. If using the microwave, reheat in 30-second bursts, stirring between intervals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes it “Marry Me” Chicken Pasta?
It’s all in the flavor! The combination of tender chicken, velvety sauce, and bold sun-dried tomato flavor is so good, it’s earned a reputation for being “proposal-worthy.”

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Just skip the searing step and add the chicken back in during the last few minutes to warm through.

Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can, but the sauce will be thinner. To thicken, add a tablespoon of flour or a bit of cream cheese.

Is this dish spicy?
Only mildly, thanks to optional red pepper flakes. You can skip them for a completely mild version or double them if you love heat.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to use a large enough pot and allow extra time for the pasta to cook evenly.

Is it gluten-free?
It can be! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that all other ingredients (like broth and seasoning blends) are certified gluten-free.

What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
Cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even tomato paste can work in a pinch, though the flavor profile will change slightly.

Final Thoughts

This Easy One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is more than just a clever name—it’s a dish full of flavor, comfort, and soul. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone, your family, or just treating yourself, it’s the kind of recipe that makes everyone feel loved. With its luscious cream sauce, herby chicken, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, it’s sure to become a regular on your table.

Go ahead and give it a try—you mightCheck this out: just fall in love with it too.