Introduction
Imagine a dish so delightful that it could make anyone fall head over heels. Enter the One-Pan Marry-Me Chicken Pasta — an enticing concoction of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and bursting flavors. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to whip up a hearty dinner with minimal fuss. With its rich aromas and smooth textures, you’ll find yourself saying, ‘I do’ to this dish again and again. Plus, it’s a dump and go recipe, meaning you can quickly prepare it and let the flavors meld together while you focus on other things or enjoy some downtime.
Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli work great)
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sear the chicken breasts for about 3–4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Season with salt and pepper.
- Once the chicken is seared, add the chicken broth, pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Cover the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the broth.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and sun-dried tomatoes enhance the flavor tremendously.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Ensure there’s enough space while searing chicken for an even cook.
- Check Pasta for Doneness: Since cooking times may vary, taste the pasta to ensure it doesn’t get overcooked.
- Add Spinach: For added nutrients, stir in some fresh spinach just before serving until wilted.
- Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to adjust salt and pepper to suit your taste.
Variations and Substitutions
If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider swapping heavy cream for half-and-half or a non-dairy milk alternative like almond milk; just be aware that the texture and richness might change slightly. You can also use whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist. For additional flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or some fresh basil into the dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover One-Pan Marry-Me Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from becoming too dry.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to increase the cooking time. It’s best to thaw them first for even cooking.
How can I make this pasta dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use extra vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini. Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and quickly assemble everything when you’re ready to cook.
What can I serve on the side?
This creamy pasta pairs well with a fresh green salad or some garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping! Just divide into individual servings in advance and store safely in the fridge.
Nutrition Estimate
Per serving, this One-Pan Marry-Me Chicken Pasta recipe comes in at approximately 550 calories, with 30g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. This hearty meal not only satisfies the palette but also provides a good balance of nutrients to keep you fueled for the day.
One-Pan Marry-Me Chicken Pasta – EASY & DUMP & GO
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and sear chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes per side. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add chicken broth, pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
- Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes until pasta is al dente and broth is absorbed.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan until sauce is smooth.
- Serve garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing chicken.
Check pasta for doneness to prevent overcooking.
Add spinach for nutrients—stir in before serving until wilted.
Adjust seasoning to taste.
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or almond milk (texture may vary).
Use whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative.
