Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of sun-dried tomatoes mingling with garlic wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a rustic Italian trattoria. This is how my One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta came to life—a creamy, comforting dish that not only pleases the palate but also simplifies my life. Packed with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and al dente pasta, this recipe offers a quick dinner solution that leaves you feeling indulgent without the fuss. With just one pot, clean-up is a breeze, allowing you to savor moments with family and friends instead of laboring in the kitchen. The delightful blend of flavors is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters, making it a go-to for any busy weeknight. Curious about how to whip up this irresistible meal in no time? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why Choose One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta? Ease of Preparation: This recipe is incredibly simple, using just one pot so you can enjoy time-saving cooking without the mess. Rich, Creamy Sauce: The combination of whole milk, cream cheese, and Parmesan creates a lusciously creamy sauce that envelopes every bite in deliciousness. Flavor-Packed Ingredients: Sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning take the taste to another level, delivering an authentic Italian flair that will have your family asking for seconds. Versatile Enjoyment: Feel free to customize by adding veggies like kale or swapping chicken for shrimp, making it perfect for any dietary preference. Perfect for Every Occasions: Ideal for busy weeknights or romantic dinners, this dish impresses without taking hours to prepare. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread to complete your meal! One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Ingredients For the Pasta Dish • Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes – These add rich flavor and acidity; just remember to drain the oil before cooking. • Boneless chicken breasts or thighs (1 pound) – This provides protein and substance; you can substitute with ground chicken or turkey for variety. • Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning; feel free to adjust to your taste. • Italian seasoning (4 teaspoons) – Enhances the flavor profile; a blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme elevates your One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta. • Salted butter (2 tablespoons) – Adds richness and helps to sauté the garlic; olive oil is a great substitute for a lighter dish. • Garlic (2 cloves, chopped) – Provides that aromatic kick; fresh garlic is preferable for the best taste. • Short cut pasta (3/4 – 1 pound) – This forms the base of your dish; opt for any pasta shape you like, such as penne or farfalle. • Whole milk (2 cups) – Makes the sauce delightfully creamy; use half-and-half or heavy cream for an even richer texture. • Cream cheese (2 ounces) – Thickens the sauce and adds creaminess; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy blending. • Chopped baby spinach (2 cups) – Adds freshness and nutrition; feel free to swap for kale or another leafy green if desired. • Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup) – A tasty finishing touch; freshly grated truly makes a difference! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Step 1: Sear the Chicken Begin by heating the reserved oil from the oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the boneless chicken breasts or thighs, seasoning them generously with salt, black pepper, and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning. Sear for about 5 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Set the chicken aside on a plate to rest. Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics In the same pot, lower the heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter until frothy. Add the chopped garlic and the remaining 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, stirring to combine. Sauté this mixture for about 2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden, making sure not to burn it for the best flavor. Step 3: Cook the Pasta Pour in the short cut pasta along with 2 cups of water, then stir frequently to prevent sticking. Raise the heat slightly and allow the pasta to cook for approximately 8 minutes, until it reaches al dente consistency. You’ll want the pasta to retain a slight firmness, as it will continue cooking in the next steps of the One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in 2 cups of whole milk, followed by 2 ounces of cream cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until a creamy sauce forms, which should take about 3-4 minutes. The sauce should cling beautifully to the pasta. Step 5: Combine Everything Reintroduce the seared chicken to the pot, followed by the chopped baby spinach and the drained sun-dried tomatoes. Gently fold the ingredients together until the spinach wilts down, which should take about 2 minutes. Make sure everything is coated in that luscious sauce, enhancing the flavors of your One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Step 6: Finishing Touches Once the spinach has wilted, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in a handful of fresh basil for an aromatic finish. This will bring a bright, fresh touch to your delightful dish. Serve immediately, garnishing with additional Parmesan and fresh basil to elevate the presentation and flavor of your One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Storage Tips for One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the pasta and sauce together to maintain flavor and moisture. Freezer: Freeze in portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Before freezing, ensure the pasta is slightly undercooked to retain texture upon reheating. Reheating: Gently reheat the One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce and stir until heated through. Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the pasta out for more than 2 hours to prevent bacteria growth; always refrigerate promptly. Expert Tips for One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Drain Tomatoes: Always drain the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes. Using too much oil can make your One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta greasy. Watch the Pasta: Keep a close eye on the pasta while it cooks to avoid overcooking. Al dente pasta is key for the best texture! Use Fresh Cheese: Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and flavor. Pre-grated cheese may not achieve the same creaminess. Adjust Creaminess: If your sauce becomes too thick, gradually add more milk or water until you achieve the desired consistency while stirring gently. Mix Veggies in: Feel free to add frozen peas or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition, making your One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta even more delightful! What to Serve with One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Elevate your dining experience by accompanying this delightful dish with perfect pairings that bring a burst of flavor and texture. Garlic Bread: This crispy, buttery delight absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully and enhances the meal’s comforting vibe. The perfect companion to mop up every last drop! Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing bring freshness and crunch, balancing the rich flavors of the pasta. This vibrant side is light yet satisfying. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a caramelized sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the pasta. The variety of textures will make every bite a joy. White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce without overwhelming it. The crispness of the wine elevates your dining experience. Lemon Sorbet: Light and refreshing, this dessert cleanses the palate after the rich main course. Its tangy sweetness adds a delightful finish to your meal. Pesto Bruschetta: The bright, herbal notes of pesto on toasted bread provide a fresh contrast to the heaviness of the pasta. It’s an appetizer that sparks joy and conversation. Steamed Broccoli: This simple side not only adds nutrition but also a nice pop of color to your plate. The slight crunch complements the silky pasta wonderfully. Sparkling Water: A bubbly drink keeps things light and refreshing, making it the ideal beverage to enjoy alongside your creamy dish. Chocolate Mousse: For a decadent dessert, this rich, airy treat offers a luxurious end to your meal. Its smooth texture contrasts beautifully with the pasta. Fresh Basil Garnish: Don’t forget to sprinkle some additional fresh basil on top of your dish for a fragrant finish that mirrors the meal’s vibrant flavors. Make Ahead Options These One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta dish is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cube the chicken and season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld. Additionally, you can sauté the garlic and prepare the cream sauce ahead of time; just be sure to refrigerate it. When ready to serve, simply cook the pasta and warm the sauce on the stovetop while stirring gently (add a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce). This way, you’ll have a rich, creamy meal that’s just as delicious with minimal effort, making busy weeknights much more manageable! One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Variations Feel free to explore delightful twists on this dish that will tantalize your taste buds and wow your dinner guests! Kale Substitute: Replace spinach with kale for a heartier green, enhancing nutrition and adding a robust flavor contrast. Shrimp Delight: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a quick and luxurious seafood option that cooks in mere minutes. Gluten-Free Pasta: Opt for gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing any creamy goodness. Your pasta will still be satisfying! Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a fiery touch that will wake up your taste buds and elevate your meal. Roasted Veggies: Toss in roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for a sweet, caramelized flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Elevating your One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is all about personal touches! Whether it’s a hearty addition like kale or a spicy twist with jalapeños, the choice is yours. For more inspiration, have a look at my Oven Baked Chicken and Honey Butter Chicken recipes, where you’ll find more flavor-packed options to suit every palate! One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe FAQs What type of sun-dried tomatoes should I use? I recommend using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for their superior flavor and richness. Make sure to drain the oil before cooking to avoid a greasy sauce. If you can’t find oil-packed, dried tomatoes can be rehydrated in hot water for about 10-15 minutes. How should I store leftovers of the One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta? Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the pasta and sauce together to maintain moisture and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it over low heat, adding a splash of milk to help loosen the sauce if needed. Can I freeze One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta? Absolutely! To freeze, portion your pasta into airtight containers for up to 2 months. I recommend slightly undercooking the pasta before freezing to ensure better texture upon reheating. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of milk to restore creaminess. What if my pasta absorbs too much liquid during cooking? If you find that your pasta has absorbed too much liquid and your sauce is too thick, simply add more milk or water gradually while gently stirring. This will help achieve the creamy consistency that makes the One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta so delightful! Aim for a smooth sauce that clings nicely to the pasta. Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions? This One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta can be adjusted to accommodate various dietary preferences! You can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. Just ensure you check ingredient labels for any allergens. What kind of pasta works best for this dish? You can use any short pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Each shape will hold the creamy sauce differently, so feel free to get creative! My personal favorite is penne—it catches all the delicious bits beautifully. One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Quick Comfort Food Delight This One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy and comforting dish that simplifies dinner without sacrificing flavor. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta Dish1 pound boneless chicken breasts or thighs can substitute with ground chicken or turkey2 tablespoons salted butter can substitute with olive oil for a lighter dish2 cloves garlic chopped, fresh preferred3/4 - 1 pound short cut pasta opt for any pasta shape you like2 cups whole milk can use half-and-half or heavy cream2 ounces cream cheese room temperature for easy blending2 cups chopped baby spinach can swap for kale or another leafy green1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated makes a difference4 teaspoons Italian seasoning blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme1 jar oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes drained before cookingto taste salt and black pepper essential for seasoning Equipment large pot Method Step-by-Step Instructions for One Pot Marry Me Chicken PastaHeat the reserved oil from the oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning. Sear for about 5 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Set aside.In the same pot, lower the heat to medium and melt butter until frothy. Add garlic and remaining 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, stirring to combine. Sauté for about 2 minutes, until fragrant and lightly golden.Pour in the pasta along with 2 cups of water and stir frequently. Raise heat slightly and cook for 8 minutes until al dente.Reduce heat to low and stir in whole milk, cream cheese, and grated Parmesan. Mix until creamy, about 3-4 minutes.Reintroduce the chicken, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. Gently fold until spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil. Serve immediately, garnishing with additional Parmesan and basil. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 28gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Freeze portions for up to 2 months, ensuring pasta is slightly undercooked before freezing. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
