If there is one dinner that can truly win hearts at the table, One-Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta is it.
This dish brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce—all made in a single pan.
It is comforting, elegant, and deeply satisfying.
More importantly, it feels special without feeling complicated.
This recipe is designed for busy evenings, cozy weekends, and moments when you want dinner to feel unforgettable.
Every bite delivers creamy richness balanced with savory depth and fresh herbs.
The pasta stays al dente.
The sauce clings naturally.
The chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
Whether you are cooking for family, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself, this one-pan pasta delivers restaurant-quality results at home.
Looking for a low-carb version without pasta? Our classic Marry Me Chicken is the perfect alternative.
Why This One-Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta Works So Well
Many creamy pasta dishes fail because they overcook the pasta or drown it in sauce.
This recipe avoids both problems.
It uses a controlled cooking method that allows the pasta to absorb flavor gradually.
Here is why this dish consistently succeeds:
- Everything cooks in one pan, building layers of flavor.
- Pasta cooks directly in the sauce, not separately.
- The sauce thickens naturally from starch released by the pasta.
- Chicken is seared first, then finished gently.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add depth without overpowering the dish.
As a result, the final texture feels cohesive and luxurious.
Nothing tastes flat.
Nothing feels heavy.
What Does “Marry Me” Chicken Pasta Mean?
The name “Marry Me Chicken” became popular because the flavors are so rich and comforting that people joke it could inspire a proposal.
When paired with pasta, the dish becomes even more irresistible.
This version keeps the spirit of the original while turning it into a complete, one-pan meal.
It is romantic food without being fussy.
It feels indulgent without being overwhelming.
Ingredients You Will Need
Each ingredient plays a specific role.
Quality matters, but simplicity matters more.
Protein
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs
Chicken breasts offer a leaner texture.
Thighs provide extra richness.
Both work beautifully.
Pasta
- Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine
Choose pasta with ridges or flat surfaces.
These shapes hold sauce better and enhance texture.
Sauce Base
- Heavy cream
- Chicken broth
This combination creates richness while remaining balanced.
The broth prevents the sauce from becoming too thick too quickly.
Flavor Builders
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Garlic
- Parmesan cheese
Sun-dried tomatoes add umami and gentle sweetness.
Garlic deepens aroma.
Parmesan provides saltiness and body.
Fats
- Olive oil
- Unsalted butter
These help build flavor from the first sear to the final sauce.
Seasonings and Fresh Elements
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Red chili flakes
- Fresh basil
These bring brightness and balance to the dish.
Exact Ingredient Quantities: One-Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Serves: 4 generous portions
Protein
- 1½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
(680 g)
Cut into large cutlets or left whole
Pasta
- 12 oz dry pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
(340 g)
Fats & Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
(30 ml) - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
(28 g) - 5 cloves garlic, finely minced
(about 15 g)
Flavor Builders
- ¾ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
(130 g) - 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
(2 g)
Sauce Base
- 1½ cups heavy cream
(360 ml) - 2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
(600 ml)
Seasonings
- 1½ teaspoons fine sea salt, divided
(9 g) - 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
(2 g)
Cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
(90 g)
Finely grated, not pre-shredded
Fresh Finish
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
(20 g)
Optional Enhancements
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (1 g)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (1 g)
- Extra Parmesan for serving
Texture Notes (Important)
- The pasta-to-liquid ratio is calibrated so the pasta cooks fully without excess sauce.
- Heavy cream and broth combine to prevent scorching while creating natural thickening.
- Parmesan is added off heat to maintain a smooth sauce.
- Sun-dried tomatoes provide umami without overpowering the cream.
Choosing the Right Pasta for Best Results
Pasta choice matters more than most people think.
Avoid very thin pasta.
Avoid tiny shapes.
Best options include:
- Penne
- Rigatoni
- Fettuccine
- Mafaldine
These shapes maintain structure during one-pan cooking.
They also allow sauce to cling instead of pooling.
Cook the pasta directly in the sauce.
This is essential for flavor integration.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process (One Pan Only)
This dish relies on sequencing.
Each step builds on the last.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry thoroughly.
Season generously with salt and black pepper.
Drying the surface ensures proper browning.
Browning equals flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil and butter in a wide skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken in a single layer.
Do not move it immediately.
Let it develop a golden crust.
Once browned, flip and cook briefly on the second side.
Remove the chicken and set it aside.
The chicken will finish cooking later.
This prevents dryness.
Step 3: Build the Sauce Base
Reduce heat to medium.
Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the same pan.
Stir gently.
Scrape up the browned bits from the bottom.
These bits carry intense flavor.
They should never be discarded.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Pasta
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream.
Stir until smooth.
Add dry pasta directly into the liquid.
Ensure most pasta is submerged.
Bring to a gentle simmer.
Do not boil aggressively.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta in the Sauce
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
The pasta will release starch.
The sauce will thicken naturally.
This creates a silky, cohesive texture.
Step 6: Return the Chicken
Nestle the chicken back into the pan.
Spoon sauce over the top.
Cover loosely and simmer until pasta is al dente and chicken is cooked through.
Step 7: Finish with Cheese and Herbs
Lower the heat.
Stir in grated Parmesan.
Add fresh basil and chili flakes.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
The sauce should cling gently to the pasta.
It should never feel gluey or oily.
Texture Is Everything in This Recipe
The success of this dish depends on texture control.
Pasta Texture
- Al dente
- Distinct pieces
- Lightly coated, not drowned
Sauce Texture
- Creamy but fluid
- Naturally thickened
- No flour or cornstarch needed
Chicken Texture
- Juicy interior
- Lightly crisp exterior
- Fully coated in sauce
Achieving this balance makes the dish unforgettable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes can go wrong.
Avoid these pitfalls.
Overcooking the Pasta
Pasta continues cooking after heat is reduced.
Stop when it is just tender.
Using Pre-Grated Cheese
Pre-grated Parmesan contains anti-caking agents.
These affect sauce texture.
Always grate fresh Parmesan.
High Heat at the End
High heat can split cream sauces.
Lower heat before adding cheese.
Flavor Variations You Can Try
This recipe is flexible.
Spicy Version
Add extra chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
Spinach Addition
Stir in fresh spinach at the end.
It wilts instantly.
Mushroom Lover’s Version
Sauté mushrooms after removing the chicken.
Then proceed with the recipe.
Protein Swap
Use shrimp instead of chicken.
Add shrimp at the final stage to prevent overcooking.
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This dish is rich.
Pair it with lighter sides.
Great options include:
- Simple green salad
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
- Lemon-dressed arugula
Avoid heavy sides.
Let the pasta shine.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Easy Dinners
Despite its luxurious flavor, this dish is practical.
- One pan
- Minimal cleanup
- Pantry-friendly ingredients
- Ready in under 45 minutes
It fits busy schedules without sacrificing quality.
Game Day and Hosting Appeal
This recipe scales easily.
It stays creamy even when held warm.
Serve it for:
- Game day gatherings
- Casual dinner parties
- Family celebrations
Guests will ask for the recipe.
They always do.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to three days.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Add a splash of broth or cream.
Avoid microwaving on high.
Slow reheating preserves texture.
Can You Freeze It?
Freezing is possible but not ideal.
Cream sauces change texture when frozen.
If freezing is necessary:
- Freeze without pasta if possible
- Reheat slowly
- Stir well before serving
Fresh is always best.
Final Thoughts on One-Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This dish succeeds because it respects balance.
It does not rely on shortcuts.
It does not overwhelm the palate.
Instead, it delivers comfort, elegance, and depth in every bite.
The pasta tastes real.
The sauce feels luxurious.
The chicken stays tender.
If you are looking for a recipe that feels special yet approachable, this is it.
One pan.
One unforgettable meal.
