There’s something utterly magical about the combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly al dente pasta – all cooked in one pot for ultimate ease. This One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the kind of dish that makes everyone at the table swoon, and it might just earn you a marriage proposal or two!

The first time I made this dish, I was simply trying to avoid washing multiple pans, but the rich flavors and the cozy aroma won me over instantly. Now, it’s a staple in my home, especially when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You'll Love This One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for this irresistible dinner. This One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta has everything you could ask for: simplicity, bold flavors, and minimal cleanup.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy. With just 30 minutes and a single pot, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that feels like an indulgence. No juggling multiple pans or complicated steps – just straightforward, delicious cooking.

The flavor profile is out of this world. Tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan cheese, and creamy sauce come together to create a harmony of richness and tanginess that will leave you craving more.

Not to mention, it’s totally family-friendly. Kids love the creamy pasta, while adults appreciate the sophisticated blend of herbs and tomatoes. Plus, it’s versatile enough to cater to picky eaters or adventurous foodies.

Finally, the cleanup is a breeze. One pot means fewer dishes, which makes this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. You’ll spend more time enjoying the meal and less time scrubbing pans.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in delivering bold, crave-worthy flavors, so let’s break them down.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work beautifully here. Thighs tend to be juicier, but breasts offer a leaner option. Slice them thinly for quick, even cooking.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These are the star of the show, adding a sweet, tangy depth that pairs perfectly with the cream sauce. Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for extra richness.
Pasta: Short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni are ideal. Their ridges hold onto the sauce, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. You’ll cook the pasta directly in the sauce for a truly one-pot experience.
Heavy Cream: This creates the luscious base of the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half, but the result won’t be quite as luxurious.
Chicken Broth: Adds depth and ensures the pasta cooks to perfection while absorbing all the delicious flavors. Opt for low-sodium broth to control the salt levels.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan is a must for that nutty, savory finish. Pre-grated options can have additives that impact the texture, so grating it fresh is worth the effort.

Special Equipment: A large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven is ideal for this recipe. It ensures even heat distribution and enough room to stir without spilling.

How To Make This One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Creating this swoon-worthy dish couldn’t be simpler. Let me walk you through the process step by step.

Sear the Chicken
Begin by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken slices with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning, then sear them until golden on both sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add minced garlic and a handful of diced shallots or onions. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, scraping up the flavorful browned bits left by the chicken. This step builds a rich base for the sauce.
Build the Sauce
Add chicken broth, heavy cream, and a handful of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the pot. Stir well, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. The aroma alone will have your mouth watering!
Cook the Pasta
Pour in the pasta, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Stir frequently as it cooks to prevent sticking, and let the pasta absorb the creamy sauce. This should take about 10-12 minutes, depending on the pasta shape.
Combine and Finish
Once the pasta is tender, return the cooked chicken to the pot. Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped fresh basil. Let everything cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

And just like that, dinner is served! The total time? Just under 30 minutes, and the result is a velvety, flavor-packed pasta dish that feels like a labor of love.

Storage Options

Have leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and enjoy this One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta later:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making leftovers even more delicious.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent scorching.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this dish is its versatility. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

Swap the Protein: Try shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a twist on the classic chicken version.
Add Vegetables: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.
Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for a kick of heat.
Use Different Cheeses: Swap parmesan for pecorino romano or add a dollop of ricotta for creaminess.
Try Whole-Grain Pasta: For a healthier option, use whole-grain or gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Final Thoughts
This One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is everything you want in a recipe: easy, delicious, and memorable. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a special someone, this dish is guaranteed to impress. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to fall in love – one bite at a time!