Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, dreamy, one-pan chicken dish that’s taken the culinary world by storm. This decadent recipe features tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, parmesan-cream sauce infused with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs. Whether you’re trying to impress someone special or just want a meal that feels luxurious, this dish is sure to deliver.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, julienned
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh thyme or basil for garnish
Preparation
Prep and Sear the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Build the Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet.
- Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor.
- Add heavy cream, parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Simmer and Finish
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, ensuring they are fully submerged in the sauce.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes over low heat until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
- Garnish with fresh thyme or basil before serving.
Variations
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with tofu or portobello mushrooms.
- Extra Veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
Cooking Note
For the best results, don’t skip the searing step—it locks in the chicken’s juices and enhances the flavor. Also, allow the sauce to simmer gently to meld the flavors without breaking the cream.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Marry Me Chicken over a bed of al dente pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or steamed rice. Pair with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- For a romantic touch, present it in a warm skillet right at the table.
Tips
- Thickening the Sauce: If the sauce feels too thin, whisk in a slurry of cornstarch and water, then simmer until thickened.
- Balancing Flavors: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes for a personalized touch.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.
Timing Breakdown
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving, approx.)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 32g
- Carbs: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and just as delicious. Adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked.
What’s the best way to reheat Marry Me Chicken?
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce smooth.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, but cream-based sauces can separate upon thawing. Freeze in a tightly sealed container, and reheat slowly with additional cream to restore the texture.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken isn’t just a recipe—it’s an experience. The combination of creamy textures, bold flavors, and ease of preparation make it a winner for date nights, family dinners, or impressing guests. Try it tonight, and watch as everyone falls in love—one bite at a time!