There’s nothing quite like a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that comes together in just one pot. Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich, indulgent meal that’s so delicious, it might just lead to a proposal! With tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious parmesan cream sauce, this dish is a guaranteed hit for date nights, family dinners, or whenever you need a comforting meal.

I first discovered this dish when looking for an easy but elegant pasta recipe. After one bite, my husband jokingly said, “If we weren’t already married, I’d propose right now!” And just like that, Marry Me Chicken Pasta became a staple in our kitchen.

Let’s dive into why you’ll love this dish and how to make it effortlessly in one pot!

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with this creamy, cheesy, and savory pasta dish that requires minimal cleanup and delivers maximum flavor.

First, it’s a one-pot wonder – meaning less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal. Everything, from searing the chicken to simmering the pasta, happens in the same pan, allowing flavors to build beautifully.

Second, it’s packed with irresistible flavors. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and parmesan creates a rich and slightly tangy sauce that coats every bite of pasta. The juicy chicken adds protein, making it a well-rounded meal.

Next, it’s quick and easy to make. In under 40 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready to serve, making it ideal for weeknights or special occasions.

Finally, it’s highly customizable. Whether you want to swap out the protein, add extra veggies, or lighten up the sauce, there are plenty of ways to tailor this dish to your preferences.

Now, let’s take a look at the key ingredients that make this pasta so delicious.

Ingredient Notes

The beauty of Marry Me Chicken Pasta is that it uses simple pantry staples while delivering a gourmet flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly. Thighs stay juicier, but breasts cook faster and absorb the sauce beautifully.
Pasta – Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini works best. These shapes hold onto the creamy sauce better than long noodles.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes – The slightly sweet and tangy taste of sun-dried tomatoes adds depth to the dish. Be sure to use the oil-packed variety for extra flavor.
Garlic & Onion – These aromatics build a rich, savory base for the sauce.
Chicken Broth – Helps cook the pasta while adding flavor. Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the salt level.
Heavy Cream – Creates a silky, luxurious sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half.
Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce, adding nutty, salty richness.
Italian Seasoning & Red Pepper Flakes – A blend of herbs and a touch of heat elevate the flavor profile.

You’ll also need a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven to make this a true one-pot dish.

How to Make One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Making this Marry Me Chicken Pasta is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps for a foolproof, delicious meal.

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, add a little more oil and sauté diced onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant. The bits of chicken left in the pan will add incredible flavor to the sauce.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add your uncooked pasta directly into the skillet. Let it cook in the creamy broth for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the flavors as it softens.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese & Chicken

Once the pasta is tender, stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens. Slice your cooked chicken and add it back to the pan. Let everything simmer together for a couple of minutes.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Garnish with extra parmesan and fresh basil for a burst of freshness. Serve hot and watch as your family (or date!) falls in love with every bite.

This dish is ready in about 35 minutes, making it perfect for any occasion!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely!), here’s how to store them properly:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken as it sits, so add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.
Freezer: While you can freeze it, the creamy sauce may separate when thawed. If you do, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months and reheat gently with added liquid.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, to avoid overheating the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Marry Me Chicken Pasta is how versatile it is! Here are a few ways to switch it up:

Swap the Chicken: Try shrimp, salmon, or even rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
Make It Spicier: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
Go Low-Carb: Swap out pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Add Veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers make great additions for extra nutrients.
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the cheese for a lower-calorie dish.

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!