Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this marry me chicken pasta will become a favorite.
-
Only 5 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
-
No boiling required. The pasta cooks right in the oven.
-
One pan. Minimal cleanup.
-
Creamy and indulgent. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
-
Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves creamy chicken pasta.
-
Budget-friendly. Chicken, pasta, and sauce are inexpensive.
-
Perfect for date nights and special occasions.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
-
12 oz (about 340 g) uncooked short pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni)
-
1.5 lb (about 680 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
-
1 (16 oz / 2 cup) jar Alfredo sauce
-
1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
-
1.5 cups grated Parmesan cheese, divided (about 4.5 oz)
-
1.5 cups water
-
1/2 tsp kosher salt (optional, to taste)
-
1/4 tsp black pepper (optional, to taste)
-
Nonstick cooking spray or a little olive oil for greasing the dish
Ingredient Notes
Short pasta: Use penne, rotini, or rigatoni. The pasta cooks directly in the sauce.
Chicken breasts: Cut into bite-size pieces for even cooking.
Alfredo sauce: Creates the creamy base.
Sun-dried tomatoes: Add sweetness and tang.
Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a deep oval baking dish (about 3-quart capacity) with nonstick spray or olive oil.
Step 2: Add the Pasta
Add the uncooked pasta to the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Scatter the bite-size pieces of raw chicken evenly over the pasta.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the Alfredo sauce, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 1 cup of the grated Parmesan, and the water until smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Add the Sauce
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the pasta and chicken. Stir gently to coat everything.
Step 6: Cover and Bake
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
Step 7: Stir and Finish Baking
Remove the foil and stir the pasta well. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan over the top. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the top is golden and the chicken is cooked through (165°F).
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Let the dish rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Stir gently and serve.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This creamy, indulgent pasta is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the sauce.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with asparagus or zucchini.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with basil or parsley.
With Extra Parmesan: Add more cheese on top.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
Make It with Different Pasta: Use shells or ziti.
Make It with Different Sauce: Use marinara or vodka sauce.
Make It with Spinach: Add fresh spinach to the sauce.
Make It with Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms.
Make It with Herbs: Add thyme or basil.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
Make It in a Slow Cooker: Cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Do not cook the pasta before baking. It cooks in the sauce.
Cover tightly with foil. This traps the steam.
Stir halfway through. This ensures even cooking.
Let the dish rest before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Shrimp or sausage can be used.
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes. Shells or ziti can be used.
Can I use a different sauce?
Yes. Marinara or vodka sauce can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my sauce thin?
The pasta did not absorb enough liquid. Let it rest.
Can I add more cheese?
Yes. Use up to 2 cups.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any oven-safe dish works.
Can I make this without sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes. Omit or use roasted red peppers.
The Beauty of One-Pan Pasta
There is something deeply satisfying about a creamy, indulgent pasta dish that comes together in one pan. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This marry me chicken pasta is a celebration of all those things.
Keep pasta in your pantry. Keep chicken in your freezer. Keep Alfredo sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan in your fridge and pantry. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes covered, plus 10–15 minutes uncovered
Rest Time: 5–10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings