Recipe
This Marry Me Chicken recipe is the ultimate weeknight hero—flavorful, comforting, and so good it might just earn you a marriage proposal. Perfectly seared chicken breasts simmered in a creamy, dreamy sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a splash of heavy cream? Oh, it’s as divine as it sounds.
What sets this dish apart is the balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors that meld together in every bite. The sun-dried tomatoes add a chewy, umami-packed punch, while the cream creates a silky, luxurious texture that hugs the chicken like a cozy blanket.
I’ve made this countless times, and it never fails to impress—whether it’s a date night, family dinner, or just a treat for yourself. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s called Marry Me Chicken. Ready to fall in love? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
To make Marry Me Chicken truly unforgettable, every ingredient plays a pivotal role in building its rich, creamy, and flavorful profile. Here’s what you’ll need, plus some pro tips and swaps to make it your own:
- Chicken breasts or thighs – Thighs are more forgiving and add extra juiciness, but breasts work beautifully if you prefer leaner cuts.
- Sun-dried tomatoes – Opt for jarred ones in oil for added depth of flavor; the oil can even replace your cooking fat.
- Heavy cream – This is non-negotiable for that luscious sauce. Half-and-half works in a pinch, but the texture won’t be as velvety.
- Garlic – Fresh is best here; minced garlic in a jar just won’t deliver the same punch.
- Chicken broth – Use low-sodium to control the saltiness; homemade broth adds an extra layer of richness.
- Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully and adds a nutty, salty kick—pre-shredded won’t give you the same creaminess.
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- Spinach – Adds a pop of color and nutrients; baby spinach wilts quickly and blends seamlessly.
- Italian seasoning – A blend of dried herbs packs in flavor; fresh basil or oregano can be used for garnish.
- Olive oil – For sautéing; sun-dried tomato oil can be a flavorful alternative.
- Red pepper flakes – Just a pinch to add warmth without overwhelming the dish.
Little wins: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil at the end brightens everything up, and a squeeze of lemon juice can balance the richness if desired. Don’t forget crusty bread for soaking up that irresistible sauce!
How to Make the Best Marry Me Chicken Recipe
– Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This step guarantees the chicken is flavorful throughout. Allow the seasoning to sit for a few minutes to penetrate the meat.
Pro Tip: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps the seasoning stick better and promotes a golden crust.
– Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. A hot skillet is essential for achieving a beautiful sear on the chicken. Let the oil shimmer before adding the chicken.
Watch-Out Warning: Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the temperature and lead to steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary.
– Sear the chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown. This locks in moisture and creates a flavorful base for the sauce. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Visual Cue: The chicken should release easily from the pan when it’s ready to flip. If it sticks, give it another minute.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. This builds on the flavors left from the chicken. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it turns bitter quickly.
- Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. These bits add depth to the sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Pro Tip: Use a wooden spatula to scrape the pan gently without damaging the surface.
– Stir in heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. The cream creates a rich, velvety texture while the tomatoes add a tangy sweetness.
Flexibility: If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream.
– Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through and infuse the chicken with flavor.
Visual Cue: The sauce should coat the back of a spoon without being too thick or runny.
– Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately. Fresh herbs add a burst of color and a bright finish to the dish.
Pro Tip: Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
Nutrition
This Marry Me Chicken recipe offers a balanced mix of nutrients. Below is the detailed nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Cholesterol | 120 mg |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
Chef Tips
When I make Marry Me Chicken, I always sear the chicken first to lock in flavor before adding the sauce. I use fresh garlic and herbs for maximum aroma, and I deglaze the pan with broth to capture all the browned bits.
For creaminess, I whisk in cream slowly and simmer gently. Ultimately, I finish with Parmesan and fresh basil for a rich, balanced dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, I can use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They’re juicier and more flavorful, so I’ll adjust the cooking time slightly since they might take a bit longer to cook through. They’ll work perfectly in this dish!
Is It Safe to Freeze Marry Me Chicken?
Yes, it’s safe to freeze Marry Me Chicken. I’d recommend storing it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When I’m ready to eat it, I thaw it overnight and reheat gently.
What Sides Pair Best With Marry Me Chicken?
I’d serve marry me chicken with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or Parmesan risotto. A crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread also works perfectly. These sides balance the dish’s richness and complement its flavors without overpowering it.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes, I can make this dish dairy-free! I’ll swap heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese. It’ll still taste rich and delicious without the dairy.
How Long Does Leftover Marry Me Chicken Last?
Leftover Marry Me Chicken lasts 3-4 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. If I freeze it, it’ll stay good for up to 3 months, though the texture might change slightly when reheated.
