Can I substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Using chicken thighs can actually yield a juicier and more flavorful result due to their higher fat content. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.

How can I ensure the pasta cooks evenly in one pot?

The key is to stir occasionally and monitor the liquid level. If the pasta seems to be absorbing too much liquid before it’s fully cooked, add a bit more broth or water. This way, you’ll maintain a creamy consistency while ensuring the pasta is al dente.

Are there gluten-free or dairy-free options available?

Yes, this recipe is highly adaptable. For gluten-free, simply swap out your regular pasta for a gluten-free version. For dairy-free, use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream, and opt for a vegan Parmesan alternative.

What side dishes pair best with Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a crisp mixed greens salad, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. These sides help balance the richness of the pasta and add variety to your meal.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much as the pasta cooks, add a splash of reserved pasta water or extra chicken broth. This will help maintain the ideal creamy consistency without compromising on flavor.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Name: Marry Me Chicken Pasta – Creamy, One-Pot Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-2 inch pieces); 8 oz pasta of your choice (penne, rigatoni, or spirali work great); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter (or ghee); ½ cup finely chopped onion; 3–4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped); 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium); 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a mild kick); 2 cups fresh spinach; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Description

A quick and irresistible one-pot dinner featuring tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich sun‑dried tomato cream sauce. This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a family favorite with bold Italian-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1–2 inch pieces)
8 oz pasta of your choice (penne, rigatoni, or spirali work great)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter (or ghee)
½ cup finely chopped onion
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a mild kick)
2 cups fresh spinach
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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Instructions

Prep & Sear:

Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter; sear chicken until golden (≈4–5 minutes) and remove.

Sauté & Deglaze:

Sauté onion (2–3 minutes) then garlic (30 sec) in the same pan.
Add broth and sun‑dried tomatoes, scraping up browned bits.

Simmer Sauce:

Stir in heavy cream, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes; bring to a gentle simmer.

Cook Pasta:

Add uncooked pasta; cover and cook for 11–12 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally.

Finish:

Return chicken, stir in spinach until wilted, and mix in Parmesan.
Adjust seasoning and garnish with basil.

Notes

Variations: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for juiciness, or use gluten‑free pasta.
Tip: Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce thickens too much.
Enhancement: A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the rich cream sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: One‑Pot Cooking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 350 g
Calories: 809 kcal
Sugar: 22 g
Sodium: 709 mg
Fat: 29 g
Saturated Fat: 13 g
Trans Fat: 0.02 g
Carbohydrates: 80 g
Fiber: 8 g
Protein: 60 g
Cholesterol: 160 mg