This One Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a dreamy, comforting dish that will make you fall in love at first bite. Tender chicken pieces, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and al dente pasta are all enveloped in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. With just one pot and 30 minutes of your time, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready to enjoy! Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this pasta is as simple as it is delicious. The sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of flavor, while the fresh basil gives the dish a vibrant finish. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this pasta is called “Marry Me Chicken”—it’s so good, you’ll want to say “I do!”
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups uncooked penne pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the uncooked penne pasta to the pot, stirring to submerge the pasta in the liquid. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Allure of “Marry Me Chicken” Pasta
The One Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta, also affectionately known as “Marry Me Chicken,” is a recipe that has taken the food world by storm for its delightful combination of flavors, ease of preparation, and comforting creamy texture. This dish is so flavorful and satisfying that the playful legend says it might just be good enough to make someone propose after tasting it. Whether you’re aiming to impress a loved one or just want to indulge in a comforting meal, this pasta dish is the answer.
The Origins and Inspiration
While the idea of “Marry Me Chicken” might sound like a modern concept, the recipe itself draws on the rich culinary tradition of Italian-American comfort food. Creamy pasta dishes have long been beloved for their warmth and richness, and the combination of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese has a classic Mediterranean flair. The sun-dried tomatoes are an essential element, offering a concentrated tangy sweetness that perfectly balances the creamy sauce.
The “one-pot” concept is a testament to the growing popularity of simplifying cooking, aiming to create delicious meals with minimal fuss and cleanup. It’s a practical and effective way to enjoy gourmet flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why This Recipe Is the Best
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is a go-to for anyone looking for a delicious meal without the long prep time. From start to finish, you can have this pasta on the table in just about 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights or when you want to create something impressive without spending all day in the kitchen.
- Minimal Cleanup: Since the entire recipe is made in one pot, cleanup is a breeze. No need to juggle multiple pans or strain the pasta separately. Everything comes together beautifully in one pot or skillet, meaning fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your meal.
- Deliciously Creamy with Balanced Flavors: The creaminess of the heavy cream and melted Parmesan cheese creates a luxurious sauce that coats every piece of pasta. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy twist that cuts through the richness, while the fresh basil elevates the dish with its aromatic freshness. The chicken, seasoned to perfection, makes the dish hearty and satisfying.
- Great for All Occasions: This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re making a casual family dinner, a romantic meal for two, or hosting friends for a weekend gathering, this pasta is bound to be a hit. It’s a great way to bring restaurant-quality flavors to your home without breaking the bank.
- Kid-Friendly and Family-Approved: The creamy sauce and familiar flavors make this dish a family favorite. Kids love the creamy pasta, and parents appreciate the protein-rich chicken and simple preparation. Plus, the sun-dried tomatoes offer a chance to introduce kids to new flavors in a familiar format.
- Adaptable for Different Tastes and Diets: This recipe can easily be adapted to suit a variety of dietary preferences. For a lighter version, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. To make it gluten-free, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. You can even add extra vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
The Nutritional Benefits
While this recipe leans towards indulgence with its creamy sauce, it also provides a well-rounded nutritional profile. The chicken adds a healthy dose of lean protein, while the pasta provides satisfying carbohydrates. Sun-dried tomatoes not only offer a burst of flavor but are also packed with nutrients, including vitamins C and K, iron, and antioxidants like lycopene. Fresh basil adds more than just color—it’s rich in essential oils and has anti-inflammatory properties. While it’s a comfort dish at heart, it also packs a nutritional punch.
Serving Tips and Pairings
This pasta dish is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it with a few complementary sides. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully, adding a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the pasta. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce on your plate. If you prefer a lighter side, roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans will complement the flavors without overwhelming the dish.
For wine lovers, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio will balance the creaminess, while a light red like Pinot Noir enhances the tomato and herb notes.
The One-Pot Cooking Revolution
One-pot cooking has become a beloved method in home kitchens for its simplicity and practicality. By cooking the pasta directly in the sauce, the pasta absorbs all the flavors as it cooks, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful dish. This method also creates a creamy, starchy sauce without the need for a separate roux or heavy flour-based thickening agents. It’s an efficient way to build flavor and texture without extra steps.
Make It Your Own
While this recipe is fantastic as-is, it’s also highly customizable. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning. Love cheese? Top the dish with freshly shredded mozzarella before serving for an extra layer of gooey goodness. You can also swap the chicken for shrimp or leave it out altogether for a vegetarian version—just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.
If you’re meal-prepping, this pasta stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
The Recipe That Will Win Hearts
The “Marry Me Chicken” name might be playful, but the sentiment behind it is real. This dish has all the makings of a meal that you’ll want to make over and over again—easy to prepare, comforting to eat, and filled with irresistible flavors. It’s the kind of recipe that makes any occasion feel special, whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a date night, or simply because you’re craving something creamy and delicious.
Conclusion
Food has a unique way of bringing people together, and this One Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta does just that. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that’s meant to be shared and enjoyed. Its blend of creaminess, savory flavors, and fresh herbs will make every bite memorable, and it’s bound to become a favorite in your household.
