Marry Me Chicken One Pot Pasta The Ultimate Cozy Dinner Recipe

There’s something about a meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside — and that’s exactly the kind of comfort I find in my marry me chicken one pot pasta. Growing up in that old white farmhouse nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, food was more than just sustenance; it was the thread that wove my family together. Mama Lu had a knack for turning simple things into magic with her skillet cornbread or a pot roast slow-cooked until it fell apart. This one pot pasta recipe carries that same spirit — straightforward, soulful, and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of dish you make when you want to feel close to home, even if you’re miles away from the porch swing where I once sat, flour-dusted and covered in stories.

Why You’ll Love This marry me chicken one pot pasta

This marry me chicken one pot pasta is a little like those Sunday dinners Mama Lu used to pull off — uncomplicated but unforgettable. It’s a dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta all cooked in one pot, which means fewer dishes and more time to savor the moment. I remember the countless evenings when I’d come home from college, exhausted and homesick, and this kind of meal would remind me of my grandmother’s kitchen — warm, inviting, and full of love. The flavors are rich but not heavy, perfect for a weeknight meal or an easy weekend supper that feels like a celebration.

One pot meals have a special place in my heart because they echo the simplicity and resourcefulness Mama Lu taught me. No fuss, just putting together what you have, trusting your instincts, and ending up with something that feeds both body and soul. This recipe is forgiving, too — it’s easy to swap ingredients or tweak seasoning to suit what’s in your pantry or what you’re craving.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This marry me chicken one pot pasta

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
• 2 cups chicken broth (substitute vegetable broth for a lighter version)
• 1 cup heavy cream (can use half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 8 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

When I think about these ingredients, I’m reminded of how Mama Lu never stressed over exact measurements. She’d tell me, “A pinch here, a dash there — cooking’s about feeling, not rules.” But since we’re making this in one pot, having everything ready and measured helps keep the rhythm smooth and the flavors balanced.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 720mg

These nutrition facts come from a hearty portion, enough to fill the belly without weighing it down. The protein from the chicken keeps you satisfied, while the creamy sauce adds a richness that feels indulgent but balanced by the pasta’s carbs. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a treat but can easily fit into a balanced weeknight dinner plan.

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Steps to Create Your marry me chicken one pot pasta

1. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the chicken pieces. Season lightly with salt and pepper and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed. This step seals in the juices and builds flavor, just like Mama Lu would say — “Don’t rush the good stuff.”
2. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add the chopped onion. Sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes, scraping up any browned bits left from the chicken. This little bit of caramelization is where the magic begins.
3. Add the minced garlic, oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. The smell will take you right back to those evenings on the porch, listening to stories mingled with the scent of herbs and wood smoke.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Scrape the bottom of the pan to loosen any stuck bits — these are flavor gold.
5. Add the pasta to the simmering broth and stir to combine. Cover the pan and let the pasta cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will soak up the broth and begin to get tender.
6. Once the pasta is nearly cooked through (still a little al dente), stir in the heavy cream and return the browned chicken to the pot. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more broth or cream.
7. Cook everything together for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through completely.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness, reminiscent of the herbs Mama Lu would snip fresh from her garden in the summer.

When I make this dish, I always pause at the end and take a moment to breathe in those aromas — it’s like a little piece of home in every bite. Learn more: Hearty Ground Beef Egg Noodles Recipes to Savor Tonight

Tips for Making the Best marry me chicken one pot pasta

One thing Mama Lu taught me was that good cooking is as much about patience and love as it is about ingredients. Here are a few tips I keep close when making this dish:

• Don’t rush browning the chicken. That golden crust adds depth and richness that makes the sauce sing.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan. It melts better and has a fresher, nuttier flavor than pre-grated cheese from a bag.
• Keep stirring the pasta gently. Since everything cooks in one pot, you want to prevent sticking without breaking the pasta.
• Adjust the creaminess to your liking. I often start with half heavy cream and half broth to keep it lighter but still silky.
• Season gradually. Remember, the broth and cheese add salt, so taste before adding too much salt.

These little lessons come straight from my time in the farmhouse kitchen, where cooking was an act of care, not a chore.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This marry me chicken one pot pasta is a meal all on its own, but adding a few simple sides can make it feel like a feast. Mama Lu always believed in sharing food with friends and family — it was a way to say “you’re welcome here.”

• A crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the sauce.
• Warm, crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for sopping up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
• Steamed green beans or sautéed spinach add a bright, fresh note and a little crunch.
• For a little Southern flair, a side of skillet-fried okra or collard greens would bring the meal full circle.

When I’ve served this dish at gatherings in Portland, I often hear it’s a hit because it combines familiarity with a touch of elegance — all while feeling like a cozy hug from home.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Like all good home cooking, this dish tastes just as good the next day — sometimes even better as the flavors settle. Here’s how to keep it at its best:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce and warm gently over low heat on the stove, stirring often.
• Avoid microwaving without adding liquid, as the pasta can dry out and become gummy.
• This recipe also freezes well — just cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Growing up, I learned that meals like these were meant to be savored more than once — a second helping of comfort when you need it most.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for marry me chicken one pot pasta?

The main ingredients for marry me chicken one pot pasta include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make marry me chicken one pot pasta?

The total time to make marry me chicken one pot pasta includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make marry me chicken one pot pasta ahead of time?

Yes, marry me chicken one pot pasta can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with marry me chicken one pot pasta?

marry me chicken one pot pasta pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is marry me chicken one pot pasta suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, marry me chicken one pot pasta may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

Making marry me chicken one pot pasta brings me back to the heart of that farmhouse kitchen where Mama Lu taught me that food is love, memory, and healing all rolled into one. It’s a recipe that feels both timeless and approachable, full of flavor but without fuss, perfect for anyone longing for a touch of home in their cooking. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned soul like me, this dish invites you to slow down, savor the process, and share the simple joy of a meal made with care.

“Recipes weren’t written,” Mama Lu used to say. “They were remembered. Shared by heart, with a pinch of salt and a whole lot of soul.”

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and make this marry me chicken one pot pasta your own little tradition — a reminder that sometimes, the best meals are the ones that bring us back to where we belong.