One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

This one-pot marry me chicken pasta recipe is a dish that can truly impress.

It combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta all cooked in one pan, making it not only easy to prepare but also perfect for date nights or family dinners. I first tried this recipe when I wanted to surprise a friend, and it quickly became a favorite in my dinner rotation.

The blend of flavors and the simplicity of cooking it all together means I can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with my guests. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or even a subtle marriage proposal, this dish can help set the right mood. You might find yourself making it more often than you’d expect!

I will share not just how to make this delicious meal, but also some handy tips and tricks to make it even better.

Let’s get started on creating a meal that might just win someone’s heart!

Key Takeaways

• This recipe features chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta cooked in one pot.
• It’s great for easy dinners, date nights, or special occasions.
• Tips and variations can help tailor the recipe to your taste.

What Is In This One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe?

In this one pot marry me chicken pasta recipe, I use a few key ingredients that make it rich and flavorful.

Main Ingredients:

• Chicken Breasts: I prefer skinless, boneless chicken. They cook up tender and juicy.
• Pasta: Penne or angel hair works well. The pasta holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a wonderful tanginess to the creamy dish.

Sauce Components:

• Cream: I use heavy cream for a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives it an aromatic flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: This adds a salty richness to the sauce.

Seasonings:

I keep it simple with salt and pepper. Sometimes, I add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Cooking everything in one pot means I get that delicious, restaurant-quality flavor without all the fuss. This creamy sun-dried tomato sauce brings all the flavors together, making it a satisfying meal.

With this recipe, you can impress your family or friends with a dish that’s both creamy and savory. It’s so good that it has become part of the viral marry me chicken recipe trend.

Ingredients List

To make my one-pot marry me chicken pasta, I gather a simple list of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pasta: I usually use penne or rigatoni, but any short pasta like fusilli works too.
• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are great options.
• Olive oil: This is essential for cooking the chicken and adding flavor.
• Butter: A little butter makes the sauce rich and creamy.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives it a nice kick.

Next up, I add some flavorful ingredients:

• Sun-dried tomatoes: These add a sweet and tangy taste.
• Heavy cream or half-and-half: This helps create a creamy sauce.
• Chicken broth or stock: I prefer low-sodium for better control over salt levels.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated or freshly grated brings everything together.

For seasoning, I use:

• Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Just a pinch adds some heat.
• Fresh basil: I love using fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning.

I might throw in some veggies like:

• Fresh spinach: It wilts beautifully and adds nutrients.
• Cherry tomatoes or broccoli: These can brighten up the dish.

With these ingredients, I can create a delicious and satisfying meal in no time!

Substitutions And Variations

I love how flexible the One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is. It’s fun to switch things up to match what I have on hand or my mood.

For a gluten-free option, I often use gluten-free pasta. It cooks just as well and tastes great!

If I’m looking for a creamy touch, adding coconut cream works wonders. It gives a nice flavor without any dairy.

When it comes to pasta shapes, I’m not picky. Fusilli, penne, or even farfalle can be used based on what I have in my pantry. Each shape brings a different texture!

Lately, I’ve been using shredded rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds a delicious flavor. Plus, if I want some heat, I can try a cajun chicken alfredo twist.

If I need a dairy-free version, I simply skip the cream and use more broth instead. It still tastes rich and enjoyable.

Sometimes, I mix in fresh vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients. It makes the dish more colorful and adds texture.

I keep these substitutions in mind so I can enjoy my One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta in many ways!

How To Make

I love making One-Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta because it’s simple and so tasty. The steps below will walk you through how to cook this dish perfectly, ensuring the chicken turns out juicy and tender, all while using just one pot.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

First, I season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

Then, I heat olive oil in my Dutch oven over medium heat.

I add the chicken and sear it for about 5-6 minutes per side until it’s golden brown. After that, I take the chicken out and set it aside.

Next, I cook chopped onions in the same pot for about 3-5 minutes. Once they’re translucent, I add garlic and cook for another minute.

Then, I pour in chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. I add the pasta directly into the pot, letting everything simmer together.

After the pasta is al dente, I stir in sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream.

Finally, I return the tender chicken to the pot and sprinkle with fresh basil before serving. Now I’m ready to enjoy this delicious marry me chicken pasta!

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When making one pot marry me chicken pasta, I’ve learned to watch out for a few common mistakes.

First, overcooking the chicken is a big issue. It can turn juicy chicken into dry pieces. I try to cook the chicken just until it’s browned and fully cooked.

Next, I always remember to reserve pasta water. This starchy water helps the sauce stick to the pasta. It really makes a difference in the texture.

Another thing I focus on is seasoning. Before I serve, I taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. It’s important to get it just right.

Also, if I make a large batch, I think about leftovers. I store them in the fridge in an airtight container. They can last for about 3 days. When reheating, I do it slowly to keep the creamy texture.

Lastly, I keep an eye on the sauce. If I notice it starting to separate, I reduce the heat. Letting it simmer on medium-low heat helps maintain a smooth consistency.

Serving And Presentation Tips

When I serve One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta, I like to make it visually appealing. Here are some simple tips to impress your guests.

Use Shallow Bowls
I prefer shallow bowls for plating. It gives a nice restaurant-style look and makes the pasta easier to eat.

Garnish with Fresh Basil
A sprinkle of fresh basil on top adds color and flavor. It gives a pop that everyone notices right away.

Add Extra Parmesan
I love to add extra grated Parmesan cheese on top. It melts slightly and enhances the creamy sauce.

Serve with Garlic Bread
Nothing pairs better with pasta than warm garlic bread. I often serve it on the side for an extra treat.

Include a Crisp Salad
A simple green salad balances the meal. I usually toss some mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for freshness.

Presentation Matters
I also arrange the pasta neatly in the bowl. A little care in how I present it can make a big difference.

By following these tips, my dish looks appetizing, and my guests feel special. Enjoying the meal together becomes a delightful experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

I often get questions about making the perfect one pot marry me chicken pasta. Here are some specific tips and tricks to help you nail this dish every time.

What’s the secret to making the creamiest marry me chicken pasta in one pot?

To achieve a creamy texture, I recommend using heavy cream or a mix of heavy cream and chicken broth. Add the cream towards the end of cooking to keep it rich without curdling. Also, make sure to stir it well to combine with the other flavors.

Can I substitute cream with another ingredient in the marry me chicken pasta recipe?

Yes, you can substitute cream with half-and-half for a lighter option. Coconut milk is another alternative that works well if you’re looking for dairy-free. Just remember that these substitutions may alter the dish’s overall creaminess.

What are some tips for simplifying the marry me chicken pasta recipe for quick weeknight dinners?

To simplify the recipe, keep pre-cooked or frozen chicken on hand. You can also use store-bought sauce instead of making it from scratch. Having ingredients ready to go speeds up cooking time significantly.

How do I incorporate spinach into the marry me chicken pasta without losing the dish’s flavor?

I usually add fresh spinach towards the end of cooking. It wilts quickly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce, enhancing the dish without overpowering it. This way, I get the nutrition without sacrificing taste.

Is there a way to prepare marry me chicken pasta that’s popular on TikTok?

Many TikTok recipes use the same core ingredients but focus on quick methods. Some videos show techniques like cooking the pasta directly in the sauce for added flavor. You might find recipes that highlight shortcuts like using pre-marinated chicken.

What makes a marry me chicken pasta recipe the ‘best’ when there are so many variations?

In my opinion, the best recipe balances flavor and simplicity.

It should have a creamy sauce, tender chicken, and just the right amount of seasoning. Each variation can add unique twists, but I always focus on achieving a harmonious blend of ingredients.