Marry Me Chicken is a rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible dish that has earned its romantic name for good reason it’s said to be so delicious, it could inspire a marriage proposal! Featuring juicy chicken breasts simmered in a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce with parmesan and herbs, this recipe is the perfect balance of cozy comfort and gourmet flair.
Whether you’re preparing it for a romantic dinner, a family meal, or entertaining guests, Marry Me Chicken is guaranteed to impress and satisfy every time.
In this guide, you’ll discover why this dish is adored, how to make it step-by-step, and the best ways to serve it for maximum flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking – Ready in under 40 minutes.
- Irresistible Taste – Creamy, garlicky, and savory with a tang of sun-dried tomatoes.
- Romantic & Special – Ideal for date nights or dinner parties.
- Family-Friendly – Comfort food everyone will love.
- Simple Ingredients – Mostly pantry staples with a gourmet twist.
- Customizable – Easy to make spicy, herby, or extra cheesy.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or oregano + thyme)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Ingredients:
Pat chicken dry and season with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Sear Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 1 minute. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Combine:
Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and simmer for another 8–10 minutes until chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temp).
5. Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan before serving hot.
How to Serve
- Plating Tips: Serve chicken whole with sauce drizzled over, or slice for a restaurant-style look.
- Side Pairings: Perfect with pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted veggies.
- Leftover Uses: Slice chicken for sandwiches or toss into creamy pasta.
- Beverage Pairing: Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling lemonade.
Additional Tips
- Don’t overcook chicken keep it juicy and tender.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra depth.
Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Spicy Version: Extra chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese.
- Herb-Infused Upgrade: Add fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs.
Storage & Freezing
- Refrigerate: Up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze: Up to 2 months. Store chicken separately from pasta/rice.
- Reheat: Gently on stovetop with a splash of broth or cream.
Special Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon
- Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work perfectly and add extra flavor.
Can I make Marry Me Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce and chicken separately, then combine before serving.
Is Marry Me Chicken gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you serve with gluten-free sides like rice or veggies.
What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?
Roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes make great alternatives.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken is a true comfort-food classic with a gourmet touch creamy, savory, and satisfying. With simple ingredients, customizable options, and big flavor, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a viral favorite. Try it once, and it might just become your new go-to dish for special occasions (or even weeknight dinners!).
