One Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta

One Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish for a romantic date night or a quick weeknight dinner. This creamy pasta packed with flavorful ingredients like sundried tomatoes and fresh basil is sure to impress your loved ones. With only one pan required, cleanup is a breeze, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. The unique combination of flavors and ease of preparation makes this recipe stand out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy the convenience of cooking everything in one pan, which means less mess and hassle.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of ground chicken, sundried tomatoes, and fresh spinach creates a delightful flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Suitable for various occasions, from family dinners to special date nights, this pasta is bound to impress.
• Healthy Twist: Packed with lean protein and greens, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a balanced meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience as smooth as possible, gather the necessary tools before starting. Having everything on hand ensures you can focus on creating this delightful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pan
• Spatula
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pan: A spacious pan allows for easy stirring and prevents overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.
• Spatula: A good spatula helps break up the ground chicken easily while preventing sticking to the pan.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delicious recipe for date night or a weeknight dinner, made with sundried tomatoes, basil, and Parmesan.

For the Pasta

• 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 1 lb lean ground chicken
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 4 cloves garlic (pressed)
• ½ yellow onion (diced (about 1 cup))
• ½ cup chopped sundried tomatoes
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 3 large handfuls fresh spinach
• 2.5 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 10 oz small pasta (small pasta shells (about 1 + ¼ cup dry pasta))
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• ½ cup 5% plain Greek yogurt (see notes)
• Fresh basil (for topping)

How to Make One Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a large pan over medium-high heat add 1 tbsp of olive oil. Once hot, add the ground chicken. Use a spatula to gently break up the meat, stirring frequently until fully cooked and no longer pink in color. Season with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Once the meat is cooked, add the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil followed by the garlic, onion, sundried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and paprika. Cook, stirring frequently until garlic is fragrant and onions appear translucent in color. Add the spinach in, stirring until wilted.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

To the same pan, pour in chicken broth and add the dry pasta. Bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover and allow the pasta to cook (this should take about 15 – 20 minutes depending on the size and type of your pasta). I recommend stirring periodically to ensure the bottom of the pan does not burn.

Step 4: Finish Up

Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan cheese and Greek yogurt. Serve topped with fresh basil as a delightful garnish.

Enjoy your One Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve One Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This One Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta is perfect for sharing with loved ones. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: Combine fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and homemade croutons tossed in Caesar dressing complement the creamy pasta beautifully.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread for a delicious side that pairs well with the pasta’s flavors.
• Focaccia: A herb-infused focaccia can add an aromatic touch to your meal.

With Wine Pairings

• Sparkling Water: Opt for flavored sparkling water with lemon or lime for a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage.
• Herbal Iced Tea: Brewed herbal tea can provide a soothing palate cleanser between bites.

How to Perfect One Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta

For the best results with your One Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality chicken broth enhance the dish’s flavor profile immensely.
• Adjust spice levels: Modify red pepper flakes according to your spice preference for a customized kick.
• Stir frequently: Regular stirring while cooking ensures even heat distribution and prevents pasta from sticking.
• Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking to thicken up and intensify flavors.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your One Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta can elevate the entire dining experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables in olive oil and roast until tender and caramelized.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a vibrant color and freshness to the plate.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction offer a burst of flavor.
4. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with cucumbers, bell peppers, and lemon dressing is nutritious and satisfying.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted baguette slices topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and herbs make for an easy yet delicious appetizer.
6. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini provides a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with creamy pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making One Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland pasta. Always season your meat well before cooking for maximum flavor.
• Bold overcooking pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions and check for doneness a minute or two early.
• Bold neglecting veggies: Skipping the spinach or other vegetables can make the dish less nutritious. Always add greens for added flavor and health benefits.
• Bold skipping the cover: Failing to cover the pan while simmering can cause too much liquid to evaporate. Keep it covered to ensure the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs flavors.
• Bold not stirring enough: Ignoring periodic stirring can lead to sticking. Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing.

Freezing One Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Portion out into servings for easy reheating later.

Reheating One Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, stirring until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making One Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or beef if you prefer. Adjust seasonings accordingly for best results.

What type of pasta works best in One Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Small pasta shapes like shells or penne work well as they absorb sauce beautifully and cook evenly in one pan.

How do I customize One Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini. You can also swap Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative if desired.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prepping due to its easy storage and reheating options.

How spicy is One Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

The spice level is mild but adjustable. You can increase or decrease red pepper flakes according to your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Marry Me Chicken Pasta is an ideal dish for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Its creamy texture combined with savory flavors makes it irresistible. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or protein alternatives. Try this delightful recipe today!