There’s something enchanting about creating a delicious meal that feels like a warm hug, and for me, that dish is Marry Me Chicken. The moment the aromatic blend of garlic and creamy sauce kisses the chicken, it’s like love at first bite. Picture this: a hectic week finally winding down, and all you crave is something comforting yet elegant to impress your partner or family.
I discovered this recipe during a cozy evening in, searching for a way to elevate a simple chicken dinner into something extraordinary. With just a handful of ingredients and about 45 minutes, you’ll whip up a dish that’s not only mouthwatering but also incredibly visually appealing—perfect for a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends.
What makes Marry Me Chicken a showstopper is its rich flavors enhanced by sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese, all assembled in one skillet. So, get ready to transform a commonplace weeknight into an unforgettable culinary experience that might just have them saying, “I do!” Let’s dive into this delectable recipe together.
Why You'll Love This Marry Me Chicken
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a quick 45 minutes from start to finish.
- The rich and creamy sauce, combined with sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese, creates a flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Its versatility means you can serve it for a romantic dinner or a cozy family gathering, making it perfect for any occasion.
- The stunning presentation, garnished with fresh basil or parsley, will impress your guests and make a lasting impression.
Marry Me Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts – choose boneless and skinless for a tender bite every time.
- Salt – enhances all the lovely flavors in this Marry Me Chicken recipe.
- Black pepper – adds a little kick to balance the creaminess.
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – perfect for searing and gives a rich depth to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons butter – contributes to a luxurious, silky sauce.
- 1 minced shallot (or onion) – shallots offer a sweeter, milder flavor compared to regular onions.
- 1 minced garlic clove – for that essential aromatic punch!
- Red pepper flakes (optional) – a handy way to add some heat if desired.
- 1 cup chicken broth – use low-sodium for more control over seasoning.
- 1 cup heavy cream – ensures a rich and creamy consistency that everyone loves.
For Added Flavor
- 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes – they introduce a sweet and tangy element to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – melds all the flavors together with an herbaceous touch.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – a finishing touch that adds savory depth.
For Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley – brightens the dish visually while giving a fresh aroma.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken
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Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt and black pepper. If any pieces are thick, butterfly or pound them to about 3/4 inch thickness for even cooking.
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Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and cover with foil to keep warm.
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Cook the Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Sauté the minced shallot for 2-3 minutes until softened, then add in the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute.
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Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, using a spatula to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly reduced.
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Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Allow the sauce to simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for 3-5 minutes to thicken.
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Add the Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
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Finish the Dish: Slice the chicken against the grain or leave it whole, then return it to the skillet. Spoon the rich sauce over the chicken, garnishing with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Optional: Pair with a side of pasta or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Marry Me Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled down before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezer: Seal the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags, keeping it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Make Ahead Options
Marry Me Chicken is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can season the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, prepare the creamy sauce, minus the Parmesan, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop, stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted, and follow the final steps to sear your chicken. This approach not only keeps the dish just as delicious but also makes meal planning a breeze, ensuring you have a romantic dinner or family feast ready in a flash!
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken?
There’s nothing like a heartwarming meal that brings everyone together, and these delightful pairings will perfectly complement your chicken creation.
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Garlic Bread: The crusty, buttery goodness of garlic bread invites you to soak up every drop of the creamy sauce.
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Roasted Vegetables: Colorful and charred, these seasonal veggies provide a crunchy contrast to the richness of the chicken.
Add a variety of textures by incorporating mixed bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, drizzled with olive oil and herbs.
- Creamy Risotto: A smooth, hearty risotto infused with Parmesan creates an elegant side that echoes the flavors in the chicken.
Infuse it with a touch of white wine and lemon zest for brightness, making every bite sing with flavor.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine, Caesar dressing, and crunchy croutons offer a refreshing bite that perfectly balances the dish.
Toss in freshly grated Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon for an extra zing that ties it all together.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay enhances the meal, bringing a lightness that cuts through the creaminess.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: Cap off your dinner with a warm dessert; the gooey chocolate center is the perfect indulgent ending to a romantic evening.
With these delightful options, you’ll transform your Marry Me Chicken into a full-fledged feast that sparks joy and conversation around the table.
Marry Me Chicken Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine with these delightful twists and adaptations for your Marry Me Chicken recipe.
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an aromatic flavor that elevates each bite.
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Sun-Dried Tomato Swap: Use roasted red peppers in place of sun-dried tomatoes for a sweeter, smoky alternative.
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Zesty Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving for a bright, refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.
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Spinach Boost: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach at the end of cooking for added color, nutrition, and a lovely texture.
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Creamy Mushroom: Sauté sliced mushrooms alongside the shallots for an earthy addition that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for those who crave a spicy version of this dish.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free delight.
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Wine Upgrade: Deglaze the pan with white wine instead of chicken broth for a richer flavor and a touch of luxury.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing Marry Me Chicken, ensure your chicken breasts are patted dry and seasoned well to enhance flavor and achieve a nice sear.
- Avoid overcooking by using an instant-read thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness.
- For a creamier sauce, allow heavy cream to come to a gentle simmer before adding the Parmesan cheese, as this helps it melt smoothly.
- Lastly, if you want more depth of flavor, let the sauce simmer a bit longer for a richer consistency while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Marry Me Chicken Recipe FAQs
Which chicken breasts should I use for Marry Me Chicken?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They’re perfect for achieving that tender bite and allow the flavors of the sauce to shine through beautifully.
How long can I store leftovers of Marry Me Chicken?
You can keep leftover Marry Me Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool down before sealing the container to prevent any condensation.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will stay delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.
What’s the best way to reheat Marry Me Chicken?
For the best results, gently reheat leftover Marry Me Chicken in a skillet over low heat. You can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain that creamy texture while warming it through. If you prefer the microwave, heat it in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
What if my sauce is too thick after cooking?
If you find your sauce has thickened too much, don’t worry! Simply add a bit more chicken broth or heavy cream and stir until you reach your desired consistency. Let it heat through gently while stirring to ensure it’s evenly combined.
Are there any dietary considerations for Marry Me Chicken?
If you have dietary allergies, be cautious with the ingredients. The recipe contains dairy in the form of butter and heavy cream, which may be unsuitable for lactose-intolerant individuals. You can substitute those ingredients with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream and vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts boneless and skinless
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 piece minced shallot or onion
- 1 clove minced garlic
- to taste red pepper flakes optional
- 1 cup chicken broth low-sodium
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- fresh basil or parsley to garnish
Method
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt and black pepper. If any pieces are thick, butterfly or pound them to about 3/4 inch thickness for even cooking.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and cover with foil to keep warm.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Sauté the minced shallot for 2-3 minutes until softened, then add in the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth, using a spatula to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Allow the sauce to simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for 3-5 minutes to thicken.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Slice the chicken against the grain or leave it whole, then return it to the skillet. Spoon the rich sauce over the chicken, garnishing with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
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