Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with this Marry Me Chicken recipe! This creamy, dreamy dish, with its tender chicken and rich, garlicky tomato sauce, is so delicious it might just spark a proposal.

Perfect for date nights or cozy family dinners, it’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to impress anyone. The savory, slightly tangy sauce will have everyone asking for seconds!

Recipe Overview

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Marry Me Chicken is all about indulgent comfort with a luxurious, creamy texture and bold flavors. Juicy chicken breasts are seared to perfection, then simmered in a luscious sauce of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and cream, with a hint of Parmesan for umami depth. Ready in under 40 minutes, this dish is simple enough for weeknights but feels special enough for celebrations.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients List

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness for quick, uniform cooking)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing and a golden crust)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (lightly coats chicken for a crisp exterior)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (enhances all flavors)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for a subtle kick)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced (fresh for bold, savory aroma)
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (jarred, in oil, for rich, tangy sweetness)
• 1 cup heavy cream (creates a velvety, luxurious sauce)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium to balance flavors)
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for nutty depth)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (blend of herbs for Mediterranean flair)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a gentle heat)
• Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish (adds vibrant color and freshness)

Note: Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for maximum flavor. Fresh Parmesan melts better than pre-grated.

Step-by-Step Instructions

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1. Prep Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry and pound to 1/2-inch thickness. Season with salt and pepper, then lightly dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
2. Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
3. Make Sauce: In the same skillet, add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Simmer Chicken: Return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over it. Simmer on low for 8–10 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F internally.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh basil and serve hot, with sauce drizzled over the chicken.

Tips for Success

• Pound Chicken Evenly: Uniform thickness ensures even cooking and tender results.
• Don’t Overcook Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F to keep it juicy.
• Deglaze the Pan: Scrape up browned bits after searing for extra flavor in the sauce.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If too thick, add a splash of broth; if too thin, simmer longer.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly, affecting texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Marry Me Chicken over creamy mashed potatoes or al dente pasta to soak up the luscious sauce. Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted asparagus for a balanced meal. For a romantic touch, plate with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and basil, and serve with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir. Arrange on a warm platter for an inviting, restaurant-worthy presentation.

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Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Keep at room temperature for up to 2 hours after cooking.
• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to revive the sauce.
• Freezing: Freeze chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless thighs work great; cook 6–7 minutes per side for juicy results.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese can work, but the sauce will be less rich.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Use coconut milk for cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative; adjust seasoning to taste.

How do I make it spicier?
Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne to the sauce for extra heat.

Can I prepare this ahead?
Sear chicken and make sauce a day ahead; refrigerate separately and combine when reheating.

Conclusion

This Marry Me Chicken recipe is a surefire way to win hearts with its creamy, flavorful sauce and tender chicken. It’s easy, romantic, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and share your delicious results!