Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Creamy One-Pan Meal with Big Flavor and Comforting Charm

When you’re craving a dinner that feels cozy, indulgent, and simple to pull together, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect answer. This one-skillet wonder delivers tender chicken, velvety sauce, and pasta that soaks up every drop of bold, savory flavor. It’s no surprise this dish has a reputation for being proposal-worthy.

While the name may be playful, the flavors are seriously satisfying. Think pan-seared chicken with golden edges, sun-dried tomatoes bursting with tangy sweetness, and a parmesan cream sauce that wraps around each piece of pasta. It’s hearty, balanced, and made in just one pan—making cleanup a breeze.

This meal doesn’t require fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. It’s the kind of dish you can whip up on a busy weeknight, yet it feels special enough for a candlelit dinner. With the perfect mix of comfort and elegance, it’s a pasta you’ll want to keep on repeat.

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Ingredient Rundown

Every element in this dish has a purpose—whether it’s flavor, texture, or helping everything come together in the pan.

Chicken Breasts
Sliced into thin cutlets, chicken breasts cook quickly and develop a golden crust when seared. They stay juicy and flavorful, especially when nestled into the creamy sauce. Prefer dark meat? Boneless chicken thighs offer extra richness and are just as delicious.

Short-Cut Pasta
Pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or rigatoni are perfect for catching sauce in every groove. These sturdy shapes also hold up well during simmering, making them ideal for one-pan cooking. Skip long noodles like spaghetti, which won’t mix as evenly.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes
These tomatoes add a punch of concentrated flavor—both sweet and tangy. They contrast beautifully with the creamy sauce. Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best texture and taste. No sun-dried tomatoes? Roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes make a fine stand-in.

Onion and Garlic
These aromatics create the flavor base. Onion adds sweetness while garlic brings that classic sharpness. If you want a more subtle flavor, try using shallots instead.

Heavy Cream
Cream brings the richness and velvety texture that defines the sauce. Avoid using regular milk, which lacks the fat content to create a silky finish. If you want a lighter version, try using half-and-half, but know the sauce will be thinner.

Parmesan Cheese
A generous amount of freshly grated parmesan gives the sauce a salty, nutty boost. Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly, so it’s worth grating your own for the creamiest result.

Chicken Broth
The pasta cooks directly in broth, which infuses the entire dish with savory depth. Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the overall salt level.

Italian Seasoning and Chili Flakes
Italian seasoning offers that familiar herby aroma, while red pepper flakes bring a gentle heat. You can always adjust the spice to your preference—or leave it out entirely for a milder dish.

Olive Oil and Butter
This combo adds richness and helps the chicken and aromatics brown without burning. The butter adds flavor, while olive oil keeps everything moving in the pan.

Fresh Basil (Optional)
A sprinkle of basil at the end adds freshness and a pop of green. It’s a great contrast to the creamy sauce but can be skipped if unavailable.

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Cooking Instructions

1. Sear the Chicken
   Start by slicing the chicken breasts horizontally to make thin pieces. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 3–4 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
   Using the same skillet, add the diced onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add Tomatoes and Spice
   Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Let everything cook together for about a minute, allowing the tomatoes to release their flavor.

4. Add Broth and Pasta
   Pour in the chicken broth and stir well, scraping up the flavorful bits from the pan. Add the dry pasta and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for around 10 minutes, stirring now and then to prevent sticking.

5. Make It Creamy
   When the pasta is al dente, reduce heat to low and stir in the cream. Add the parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta.

6. Return Chicken to Pan
   Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the pan. Let it warm in the sauce for a few minutes, then stir gently to coat each piece.

7. Finish and Serve
   Top with fresh basil and more parmesan, if you like. Serve hot, right from the pan.

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Tips, Swaps & Variations

Cooking Tips

• Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.

• Stir the pasta occasionally as it cooks to avoid clumping.

• Add cheese gradually and on low heat for a smooth sauce.

Easy Substitutions

• Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce.

• Swap chicken with turkey cutlets or even shrimp.

• Replace pasta with gluten-free or chickpea pasta for a dietary tweak.

Boost the Flavor

• Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding broth.

• Add a handful of baby spinach or kale toward the end for extra greens.

• Try blending cheeses like asiago or fontina for a new twist.

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Serving Suggestions

This pasta is hearty enough to be the main course but pairs beautifully with a few extras. Serve it with a crisp side salad—something with citrus or vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Warm, crusty bread or garlic toast is perfect for soaking up every bit of sauce.

When it comes to drinks, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or even a fruity rosé will complement the richness. Sparkling water with lemon is great for a non-alcoholic option that keeps things refreshing.

This dish is a go-to for romantic dinners, holidays, or even when you’re just in the mood for something comforting and cozy.

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Nutrition and Balance Notes

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a filling meal with a good mix of protein, carbs, and fat. The cream and cheese make it rich, so consider balancing it with veggies or a lighter side if you’re aiming for a more rounded plate.

To make it lighter, reduce the cream, cut back on cheese, and load in some vegetables. Use whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta for added fiber and nutrients.

Keep an eye on sodium levels if needed—low-sodium broth and a gentle hand with the parmesan can help keep things in check.

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FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce in advance, then store them separately. Reheat with a little broth or cream before adding freshly cooked pasta for best texture.

My sauce came out thin—how do I fix it?
Let the sauce simmer uncovered until it thickens naturally. Stir in a bit more parmesan to help it bind. If needed, a tiny bit of cornstarch mixed with water will also thicken it up.

What’s the best type of pasta for this recipe?
Short, tube-shaped pastas like penne or rigatoni are ideal. They hold sauce well and mix evenly with the chicken and other ingredients.

Can I use rotisserie or leftover chicken?
Absolutely. Just slice or shred and add it in at the end so it warms through. It’s a great shortcut for busy nights.

Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild heat from red pepper flakes. You can adjust the amount or leave it out entirely if you prefer it completely mild.

What’s a good dairy-free alternative to cream?
Full-fat coconut milk can work in place of cream. It changes the flavor slightly but still gives you a nice creamy texture.

Can I freeze leftovers?
You can, but the texture of the cream sauce might change slightly after thawing. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream and stir until smooth.

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