Name: Marry Me Chicken: The Creamy Love Dish You’ll Crave
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces chicken breasts (boneless, skinless); 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste); 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (can substitute with vegetable oil); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup heavy cream (coconut milk works for a dairy-free alternative); 1 cup chicken stock (low-sodium recommended); 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon (or cube); 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated); 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (adjust based on preference); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (for garnish); 4 servings cooked pasta or mashed potatoes (for serving)

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There’s something truly enchanting about unveiling a dish that not only delights the senses but also brings smiles and cheers around the dinner table. Enter Marry Me Chicken, a creamy and flavorful meal that’s bound to become a cherished favorite in your home. Picture this: tender chicken breasts melt into a rich, luscious sauce crafted from herbs, parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes— all in just 30 minutes.

After a long day, this quick dinner feels like a warm hug, perfect served over pasta or nestled alongside fluffy mashed potatoes. The moment the aroma fills your kitchen, you’ll find your family gathered with eager anticipation. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, Marry Me Chicken is designed to impress, making it the ideal recipe for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. So, are you ready to elevate your culinary repertoire? Let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe that truly lives up to its name!

Why is Marry Me Chicken a Must-Try?

Quick to prepare: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Creamy goodness: The rich sauce made with heavy cream and parmesan envelops the chicken, creating a flavor explosion that leaves everyone wanting more.
Versatile serving options: Whether over pasta or alongside mashed potatoes, each bite brings the comfort of home.
Crowd-pleaser: Guaranteed to impress family and friends, this recipe is ideal for gatherings or an intimate dinner.
Minimal ingredients: With simple pantry staples, you can whip this up without a fuss.
For those looking to explore more delightful meals, check out my easy dinner ideas!

Marry Me Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Main protein; use boneless, skinless for quick cooking.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust to taste.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – For searing chicken; gives rich flavor; can substitute with vegetable oil.

For the Creamy Sauce
• Garlic Cloves – Adds aromatic depth; fresh is preferred for optimal flavor.
• Heavy Cream – Creates a rich, creamy sauce; coconut milk works for a dairy-free alternative.
• Chicken Stock – Adds moisture and flavor; opt for low-sodium for less saltiness.
• Chicken Bouillon (or Cube) – Intensifies chicken flavor; can omit but will lose depth.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty, creamy element; freshly grated is recommended.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Introduces sweetness and texture; drain and chop before use.
• Italian Seasoning – Provides a blend of herbs for flavor; adjust based on preference.
• Black Pepper – Adds mild heat; adjust to taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Optional; adds heat; omit if avoiding spice.

For Garnish and Serving
• Fresh Basil Leaves – For garnish and fresh flavor; can substitute with parsley if unavailable.
• Cooked Pasta or Mashed Potatoes – Suggested as a delectable serving base to soak up that creamy sauce.

With these ingredients at hand, you’re all set to create your own Marry Me Chicken and impress your loved ones!

How to Make Marry Me Chicken

Pat Dry: Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and season them generously with kosher salt. This helps achieve a beautiful golden brown crust when cooked.
Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear each side for about 5 minutes until they’re golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a plate when done.
Sauté Garlic: Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir it for about 30 seconds until fragrant, letting the aroma fill your kitchen.
Create Sauce: In the same skillet, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken stock, bouillon, ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Stir until smooth and combined, creating a luscious sauce.
Simmer Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring it’s nicely covered with the creamy sauce. Cover and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Finish & Serve: Top with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Serve this delightful dish over cooked pasta or fluffy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.

Optional: Drizzle with a little extra olive oil before serving for an added touch of richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken?

Unlock the full potential of your dining experience with these delightful pairings that elevate your Marry Me Chicken into a complete feast.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: This classic side adds a smooth texture that perfectly complements the rich sauce of the chicken.
Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, it’s the ideal vehicle for soaking up that luscious creamy sauce, making every bite unforgettable.
Fresh Green Salad: A light, vibrant salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors, enhancing the overall meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal veggies like asparagus or carrots provide a pleasing crunch and earthy sweetness, balancing the dish beautifully.
Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous infused with fresh herbs gives a unique twist, serving as a delightful, flavorful base to carry the dish.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and tender, steamed broccoli offers a nutritious element that complements the creamy sauce without overwhelming the palate.
Sparkling White Wine: A chilly glass of sparkling wine can enhance the meal, offering a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy chicken.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this indulgent treat rounds out the meal perfectly, echoing the romance of your main dish with its luxurious flavors.

Make Ahead Options

Marry Me Chicken is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its creamy goodness with minimal last-minute effort! You can season and sear the chicken, then prepare the luscious sauce—both steps can be done up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of chicken stock to the sauce to maintain its rich texture. Just simmer until heated through, and then finish with fresh basil and Parmesan for a dish that’s just as delicious as when it was freshly made!

How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the creamy sauce’s texture, reheat gently on the stove over low heat.

Freezer: Marry Me Chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of chicken stock to the skillet to restore the creamy consistency and prevent drying out.

Leftovers: For optimal flavor, consume leftovers within 2 days after reheating. Enjoy this easy recipe again without losing its delicious taste!

Marry Me Chicken Variations

Customize this delightful dish to suit your family’s palate and dietary preferences, transforming it into a new favorite!

Thighs Instead of Breasts: Substitute boneless skinless thighs for added juiciness and a richer flavor. The texture will lend a more tender bite that everyone will love.
Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with firm tofu or seitan and sauté until golden. The creamy sauce will complement these proteins beautifully, satisfying vegetarians at your table.
Add Greens: Incorporate fresh spinach, kale, or roasted broccoli into the sauce during the last few minutes of simmering. The vibrant colors and added nutrition will brighten the dish.
Creamy Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version. This provides rich creaminess without sacrificing flavor, perfect for dairy-sensitive families.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for varied flavor profiles. Simply add them while cooking the garlic for a fresh twist that tantalizes the taste buds.

With a dash of creativity, you can make this recipe your own, each variation adding a unique touch to the beloved Marry Me Chicken. It’s all about making it yours!

Expert Tips for Marry Me Chicken

Pat Dry Chicken: Ensuring the chicken is patted dry helps create that sought-after golden crust while searing, enhancing overall flavor.
Check Temperature: Always use an instant-read thermometer to confirm that your chicken reaches 165°F; this ensures it’s perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
Reheat with Care: If you have leftovers, when reheating, a splash of chicken stock can prevent the sauce from drying out, keeping it creamy and delicious.
Customize Flavors: Feel free to adjust the Italian seasoning or add fresh herbs to tailor the marry me chicken to your family’s taste preferences without overwhelming the dish.
Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk in a little cornstarch dissolved in water while the sauce is simmering for that extra luxurious texture.
Meal Prep Convenience: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to three days; an excellent choice for easy meal prep sharing with friends or family.

Marry Me Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for Marry Me Chicken?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook quickly and remain tender when simmered in the sauce. Look for chicken that is pink with no dark spots. If you prefer a juicier texture, boneless skinless thighs are also a great alternative.

What’s the best way to store leftovers of Marry Me Chicken?
Keep your Marry Me Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat gently on the stove over low heat to avoid separating the creamy sauce. Stir in a splash of chicken stock to keep it creamy and delicious!

Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken?
Yes, you can! Cool the dish completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Marry Me Chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. To maintain the creaminess, add a bit of chicken stock when warming it up.

What if my sauce turns out too thick?
No worries! If your sauce is thicker than you’d like, simply whisk in a bit of chicken stock or water while it simmers to reach your desired consistency. It’ll help create that luxurious creaminess we all love in this Marry Me Chicken dish.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you or someone you’re serving has dietary restrictions, you can make this dish dairy-free by swapping the heavy cream for coconut milk and omitting the Parmesan cheese. Additionally, always check for allergies related to nuts or gluten, especially if using specific ingredients like prepared chicken stock.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Marry Me Chicken?
The more the merrier! Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, or toss in some baby spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for an added nutritional boost. Love a bit of heat? Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a delightful kick!