One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Table of Contents

introduction

This easy one pot pasta cooks fast and tastes rich. It uses sun-dried tomatoes, creamy sauce, spinach, and basil with tender chicken. For another warm comfort dish you can make on a cold night, try Irresistible Homemade Potato Soup Mix alongside it.

why make this recipe

You get a full meal from one pot.
It saves time and cuts down on dishes.
The sauce is creamy without heavy work.
Kids and guests usually love it.

how to make One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Heat the pot and cook the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar with the chicken and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning until the chicken is done, about 5 minutes.
Take the chicken out and set it aside. Add the butter, garlic, and the other 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, and cook until the garlic smells good, about 2 minutes.
Add the pasta and 2 cups of water. Stir often so the pasta cooks evenly until it is al dente, about 8 minutes.
Stir in the milk, cream cheese, and parmesan until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the chicken back into the pot with the spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and extra parmesan. Mix gently so the spinach wilts. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil.
Serve right away with more parmesan and basil on top. For a simple weeknight tray to serve on the side, this pairs well with Sheet Pan Chicken & Sweet Potatoes.

Ingredients :

• 1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, oil drained
• 1 pound boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 3/4 to 1 pound short cut pasta
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 ounces cream cheese
• 2 cups chopped baby spinach
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup fresh chopped basil

Directions :

In a large pot set over medium-high heat, cook the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar with the chicken and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning for 5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Scoop the chicken out and set aside. Add butter, garlic, and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, cooking until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add pasta and 2 cups of water, stirring often until al dente, about 8 minutes. Stir in milk, cream cheese, and parmesan until creamy. Add chicken back into the pasta with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan, mixing gently. Remove from heat and stir in basil. Serve immediately with fresh parmesan and basil.

how to serve One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Serve hot right from the pot.
Add extra grated parmesan and fresh basil on top.
Pair with a simple green salad or crusty bread.

how to store One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Let the pasta cool to room temperature.
Put it in an airtight container.
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

tips to make One Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Use the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar for extra flavor.
Cut chicken into even pieces so it cooks fast and evenly.
Do not overcook the pasta in the pot; it will keep cooking a little after you remove it from heat.
Use whole milk for a rich sauce; you can use 2% if you prefer lighter sauce.

variation (if any)

• Swap spinach for kale or arugula.
• Add sliced mushrooms when you cook the garlic.
• Use turkey or tofu for a different protein.
• Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

FAQs

Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of Italian seasoning?
A: Yes. Use a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme. Use the same total amount.

Q: Can I make this gluten free?
A: Yes. Use gluten-free short pasta and check labels on other ingredients.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: You can freeze it, but the texture may change. For best results, store in the fridge and eat within 3 days.

Q: Can I use milk alternatives?
A: You can try oat or cashew milk, but the sauce may be thinner. Add a bit more cream cheese to thicken if needed.

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