Marry Me Chicken

By: Bennett Claire
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Posted: 07/25/2025

Okay, friends, let’s talk comfort food. You know those nights when you just need a hug in a bowl? That’s exactly what this Marry Me Chicken is. It’s creamy, it’s savory, and it has that little *something* that makes everyone rave. I like to think of it as the sophisticated cousin of Chicken Alfredo – same vibe, but with sun-dried tomatoes and a parmesan punch that will knock your socks off! Honestly, if you are planning a special night in with your loved one, be sure to add this to the menu for maximum appreciation.

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What is Marry Me Chicken?

So, what *is* Marry Me Chicken, exactly? It’s essentially Chicken Breasts simmered in a dreamy, creamy sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, and a generous amount of Parmesan cheese. Think of it as a one-pan wonder that’s both incredibly flavorful and surprisingly easy to make. As for the name? Well, legend has it that after just one bite, you’ll get a marriage proposal! I can’t promise that, but I can promise some seriously delicious food. It’s the kind of dish that impresses without requiring hours in the kitchen – my kind of cooking!

Why you will love this recipe?

There are about a million reasons to adore this recipe, but here are my top few. First and foremost, the flavor. That tangy, sweet-savory combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan is just… *chef’s kiss*. Then there’s the creamy sauce, which coats every inch of chicken in a blanket of pure deliciousness.

But honestly, what I love *most* about this Marry Me Chicken is how simple it is. I mean, seriously. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Throw everything into one pan, let it simmer, and boom – dinner is served! Plus, it uses pretty common ingredients that I usually have on hand anyway. We’re talking chicken breasts, cream, Parmesan, a few veggies… nothing too crazy.

And let’s not forget about versatility! You can serve this over pasta, rice, Mashed Potatoes, or even just eat it straight from the pan with some crusty bread for dipping (don’t judge me, we’ve all been there). If you love easy weeknight dinners like creamy Tuscan chicken or lemon chicken piccata, you are going to flip for this.

How do I make a Marry Me Chicken?

Quick Overview

How do I make Marry Me Chicken? What is a quick sauce for Chicken Breast? Cook chicken until it’s cooked through and the sauce is thick. Add the chicken to the cream, then simmer everything together. Is it that easy to clean a pan? I promise, even if you’re a beginner cook, you can nail this!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each). I like to use organic when I can, but whatever you have on hand works. Make sure they’re relatively even in thickness so they cook evenly.

For the Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil. This is for searing the chicken, so you want something that can handle the heat. I prefer extra virgin olive oil for the flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced. Fresh garlic is a *must* here. None of that jarred stuff, okay? It just doesn’t have the same punch.
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained. The oil-packed ones have so much more flavor! Drain them well before adding to the sauce. I usually give them a little chop, too.
1/2 cup chicken broth. Low-sodium is best, so you can control the salt level.
1 cup heavy cream. This is what makes the sauce so decadent. Don’t skimp!
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated is always better. The pre-shredded stuff doesn’t melt as nicely.
1 teaspoon dried oregano. Adds a little earthy flavor to the sauce.
1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper flakes (optional). For a little kick! I like to add a pinch, but it’s totally up to you.
Salt and pepper to taste. Season generously!
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional). Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.

How do I follow

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Chicken

First, lightly pound the Chicken Breasts to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly. Season them generously with salt and pepper. Get your skillet nice and hot over medium-high heat. When we talk about hot water, a drop of water evaporates instantly.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Add the olive oil to the hot skillet. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes per side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you have to, do it in batches. This helps them sear properly instead of just steaming.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! Add the sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and Red Pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the sauce to a simmer. Then, return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s nicely coated. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve immediately over your favorite pasta, rice, or Mashed Potatoes. Or, you know, just grab a fork and dig in! No judgment here.

What to Serve It With

What do you serve with Marry Me Chicken? What are some of my favorite pairings?

For a Romantic Dinner: Serve it over a bed of creamy Parmesan risotto with a side of roasted asparagus. Add a glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. And don’t forget the candles!

What is a good weeknight meal? Keep it simple with some pasta. I love using fettuccine or linguine. Toss the pasta with the extra sauce from the skillet and serve with a side salad. A simple vinaigrette dressing works perfectly.

For a Crowd:Make a big batch of mashed potatoes and serve the chicken on top. Add a side of steamed Green Beans or broccoli. It’s gonna please everyone.

For a Lunch:Can you serve it with a side salad for lunch? What is a good vinaigrette dressing?

No matter what you choose, don’t forget some crusty bread for soaking up that amazing sauce! I always have a loaf on hand for just this purpose.

How do I perfect my Marry Me Chicken?

Alright, let’s talk about some tips and tricks for making the *absolute best* Marry Me Chicken you’ve ever tasted. Because let’s be honest, we all want to impress!

Chicken Prep:What is the best way to cook chicken breasts? What are the best salt and pepper seasonings? Is garlic powder a good substitute for paprika?

What are some of theMake sure your skillet is nice and hot before adding the chicken. You want a good sear, not just steam. Don’t move the chicken around too much while it’s searing. Let it sit and develop that golden-brown crust.

Garlic Guidance Don’t burn the garlic! This is crucial. Burnt garlic is bitter and will ruin the whole sauce. Cook it for just 30 seconds, until fragrant. If it starts to brown too quickly, remove the skillet from the heat for a moment.

Cream Considerations:Heavy cream is what makes this sauce so rich and decadent. If you’re trying to lighten things up, you can use half and half or even whole milk. Just be aware that the sauce will not be quite as thick and creamy.

What are the best cheeseFreshly grated Parmesan is always best. If you’re in a pinch, you can use the pre-shredded stuff. Just make sure it’s good quality. And don’t be afraid to experiment with other cheeses! What is a little Pecorino Romano or Asiago?

Sauce Consistency:If your sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it for a few minutes, uncovered. What is the best way to make cornstarch slurry? If your sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or cream.

Sun-Dried TomatoesWhat are the best sun-dried tomatoes? They have so much more flavor than dry-packed ones. Make sure to drain them well before adding them to the sauce. I also like to give them a rough chop so they distribute evenly.

What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?

So, you’ve made a batch of Marry Me Chicken… but you have leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to store and reheat it to maintain its deliciousness:

Refrigerator Storage: HowLet the chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Can you keep it for 3-4 days? Make sure the container is well-sealed to prevent the chicken from drying out or absorbing any funky liquid.

How do I useCan you freeze Marry Me Chicken? Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. How do I prevent freezer burn? What are some ways to store it in the freezer for up to 3 months?

Reheating Methods: To reheat refrigerated chicken, simply microwave it for a few minutes, until heated through. Or, you can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. For frozen chicken, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheating it in the oven at 350F until warmed through.

Important Note: Always make sure the chicken is heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just serve it over gluten-free pasta or rice. You can also use a gluten-free all-purpose flour to lightly dredge the chicken before searing it, but it’s not necessary.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can! Chicken thighs will be even more tender and flavorful. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. They may take a little longer to cook through.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Sauté some mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers along with the garlic. Or, add some frozen peas or broccoli florets to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.

Can I make this dairy-free?

It’s tricky, but possible! Use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. The flavor will be different, but still delicious.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Prepare the chicken and sauce, but don’t simmer them together for too long. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then combine them and simmer until heated through just before serving.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my secret weapon for guaranteed smiles (and maybe even a proposal!). This Marry Me Chicken is a dish that’s both comforting and impressive, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a romantic date night, a cozy family dinner, or just a simple weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my other Creamy Chicken dishes, like creamy Tuscan Chicken. And don’t forget to rate and review this recipe below – I love hearing how it turns out for you! Also, if you switch up this recipe please share it! It’s exciting to learn about your culinary twists on this staple. Happy cooking, friends! And remember, the best meals are made with love (and a little bit of Parmesan cheese).