Marry Me Chicken. Okay, I know what you’re thinking – does it *really* work? All I can say is, this recipe has never failed to impress! I first made this creamy chicken dish for a friend going through a rough patch, and the look on her face after the first bite was pure bliss. Seriously, the rich, sun-dried tomato and parmesan sauce coating juicy chicken breasts is like a warm hug on a plate. It’s my go-to when I need to make something special, and it’s definitely a step up from my usual quick meals. Plus, the aroma of garlic and herbs simmering in the pan? Irresistible! You can even make some super easy marry me chicken pasta with it! Let’s get cooking.

Why You’ll Love Marry Me Chicken

It tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but it’s ready in under 30 minutes!
The creamy sun-dried tomato sauce is seriously addictive—you’ll want to lick the plate clean.
It’s fancy enough for date night but easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
You only need one skillet, which means fewer dishes to wash (yay!).
It’s endlessly customizable – swap the parmesan for pecorino, add spinach, or use different herbs.
It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even picky eaters will devour this creamy chicken dish.
You can serve it with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even just crusty bread to soak up all that amazing sauce!

Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Opt for organic, if possible! They cook more evenly and have better flavor. You could also use chicken cutlets to reduce cooking time.
2 tbsp olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a richness, but regular olive oil works just fine. This is for searing the chicken to golden perfection!
3 cloves garlic (minced): Freshly minced is a must! Garlic powder just won’t give you the same pungent flavor.
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped): The kind packed in oil are best! Drain them well and give them a rough chop. They add a sweet and tangy burst.
1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce incredibly creamy and decadent! For a lighter option, you *could* use half-and-half, but trust me, stick with the heavy cream for the full experience.
½ cup chicken broth: Low-sodium is my go-to so I can control the saltiness. It helps deglaze the pan and adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated): Freshly grated is always better than the pre-shredded stuff. It melts beautifully into the sauce and adds a salty, nutty flavor.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs adds that classic Italian flavor. If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can use a mix of dried oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme.
½ tsp red pepper flakes: Adjust to your liking! These add a touch of heat that balances the richness of the sauce.
Salt & black pepper to taste: Don’t be shy! Seasoning is key to bringing out all the flavors.
Fresh basil (for garnish) – Optional: Adds a pop of fresh flavor and color. A must in my book, but feel free to skip if you don’t have any on hand.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken

Step 1: Season those chicken breasts! Sprinkle both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Don’t be afraid to really coat them – this is where a lot of the flavor comes from.
Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the pan nice and hot so you get a good sear on the chicken. Trust me, that golden-brown crust is key!
Step 3: Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes per side, or until it’s beautifully golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan; if your skillet isn’t big enough, do it in batches. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside – it’s not fully cooked yet, just nicely browned.
Step 4: Add the minced garlic to the same pan and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! The aroma should be mouthwatering.
Step 5: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, letting them soften in the garlic-infused oil for a minute or two. They’ll become even more flavorful as they release their oils.
Step 6: Pour in the chicken broth, using a spatula to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom – that’s where all the good stuff is!
Step 7: Reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce has thickened slightly. It should be luscious and creamy!
Step 8: Stir in the red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed – more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you like!
Step 9: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce over it, making sure it’s nicely coated.
Step 10: Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The sauce will thicken even more as it simmers.
Step 11: Garnish with fresh basil before serving. The bright green basil adds a pop of freshness that perfectly complements the rich, creamy sauce. Enjoy your amazing, easy-to-make “marry me” chicken!

Pro Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken

These little tweaks will take your creamy chicken with sun-dried tomatoes from good to absolutely unforgettable!

Don’t skip searing the chicken! That golden crust adds so much flavor and texture.
Use good quality Parmesan cheese – it makes a HUGE difference in the sauce.
Fresh basil is a must-have garnish. It adds a bright, fresh element that cuts through the richness of the sauce. Trust me on this one!

What’s the secret to perfect Marry Me Chicken?

It’s all about building the flavors in layers. Don’t rush any of the steps! Sautéing the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes properly is crucial for developing that signature rich, savory taste. Also, don’t be afraid to season generously!

Can I make Marry Me Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! This creamy parmesan chicken is great for meal prepping. The flavors actually meld together even more as it sits. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. You might need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened too much.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Marry Me Chicken?

One of the biggest mistakes is burning the garlic. Keep the heat at medium and watch it carefully! Another common pitfall is overcooking the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C), and don’t simmer it for longer than necessary. Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough, and nobody wants that!

Best Ways to Serve Marry Me Chicken

This creamy, dreamy chicken dish is incredibly versatile! For a classic pairing, serve it over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta – linguine or fettuccine are my personal favorites. The sauce clings beautifully to the noodles, making every bite a symphony of flavor. You can also serve it with a side of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up every last drop of that luscious sauce. For a lighter option, try serving it alongside some roasted vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli. And don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh basil for that final touch of elegance! It is great for lunch or dinner. Trust me, however you serve this sun-dried tomato chicken, it’s going to be a hit!

Marry Me Chicken - detail 2

Nutrition Facts for Marry Me Chicken

Here’s a peek at the estimated nutrition per serving (one chicken breast with sauce):

Calories: 650
Fat: 45g
Saturated Fat: 25g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 200mg
Sodium: 700mg
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 50g

Keep in mind, this is just an estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use and your serving sizes!

How to Store and Reheat Marry Me Chicken

Got leftovers? Lucky you! To store your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. When reheating, the best method is to gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it, but be careful not to overheat it, or the chicken might become dry. This is important to remember if you want the best flavor when you enjoy your homemade chicken dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Me Chicken

Can I use a different type of cream?

While heavy cream is what gives this dish its signature richness, you can experiment! Half-and-half will work in a pinch, but the sauce won’t be as thick or decadent. Some people have success with coconut cream for a dairy-free version, but it will impart a slight coconut flavor. What about using milk? I wouldn’t recommend it – the sauce will be too thin. Can I add cream cheese? Absolutely! A couple of tablespoons of cream cheese will make the sauce extra creamy and tangy.

What can I serve with this creamy chicken recipe?

The possibilities are endless! As I mentioned before, pasta, rice, and mashed potatoes are all classic choices. But don’t be afraid to get creative! Roasted vegetables, like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, are a healthy and delicious option. A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing will also help to balance the richness of the dish. Can I serve it with bread? Definitely! Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up all that amazing sauce. What about polenta? Creamy polenta would be a fantastic pairing!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

While it’s called “Marry Me Chicken,” you can easily adapt it to be vegetarian-friendly! Simply swap the chicken for pan-seared tofu, halloumi cheese, or even hearty vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant. The creamy sun-dried tomato sauce is so flavorful that it will make any of these options taste incredible. What about adding spinach? Absolutely! Spinach wilts beautifully into the sauce and adds a boost of nutrients. Could I use chickpeas? Yes, roasted chickpeas would add a nice texture and plant-based protein!

Variations of Marry Me Chicken You Can Try

Vegan: Swap the chicken for firm tofu or cauliflower steaks. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of parmesan.
Gluten-Free: Serve over gluten-free pasta or rice. Make sure your Italian seasoning blend is gluten-free as well.
Spicy: Kick up the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. You could also use spicy sun-dried tomatoes.
Baked: Instead of simmering on the stovetop, transfer the chicken and sauce to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. This is a super easy way to make a baked parmesan chicken recipe with a creamy sauce!