There’s a reason this recipe earned its cheeky name. The story goes that this chicken is so delicious, anyone you serve it to will be ready to propose on the spot! I’ve made this creamy, flavor-packed dish countless times for dinner parties, date nights, and family gatherings, and it never fails to impress. The combination of tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce creates pure magic on a plate.
With just one bite, you’ll understand why it’s called “Marry Me Chicken.” The luscious sauce—infused with garlic, Italian herbs, parmesan cheese, and the sweet-tart punch of sun-dried tomatoes—transforms ordinary chicken into something truly extraordinary. Best of all, this restaurant-quality meal comes together in just one pan and about 30 minutes, making it perfect for both special occasions and weeknight dinners.
I’ve refined this recipe over years of testing to create the perfect balance of flavors. Let me walk you through how to make this irresistible dish that might just change your life (or at least your dinner rotation)!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Before we dive into the details, let me share why this Marry Me Chicken deserves a permanent spot in your recipe collection:
- One-pan wonder: Everything cooks in the same skillet, meaning less cleanup and more concentrated flavor
- Quick and easy: Ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish
- Versatile: Pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, potatoes, or crusty bread
- Impressive presentation: Looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality dish
- Meal prep friendly: Reheats beautifully for lunches or dinner the next day
- Budget-conscious: Uses simple ingredients to create something extraordinary
- Adaptable: Can be customized with various herbs or add-ins based on what you have on hand
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to create this show-stopping chicken dish:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5-2 pounds total)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
For the Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
This truly is a simple recipe that doesn’t require specialized equipment:
- Large skillet (preferably cast iron or stainless steel)
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)
- Tongs for flipping chicken
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed steps for perfect Marry Me Chicken every time:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If your chicken breasts are very thick, carefully slice them horizontally to create two thinner pieces from each breast, or pound them to an even thickness of about 3/4-inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 3 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter.
- Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot (but not smoking), add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan. Don’t overcrowd the pan—if necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean plate and tent loosely with foil to keep warm while you prepare the sauce. Don’t wipe out the skillet—those browned bits on the bottom are flavor gold!
Step 3: Make the Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and stir constantly for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this is where so much flavor lives!
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and let simmer for another 2 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Stir in the chopped fresh basil.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon some sauce over the top of each piece of chicken.
- Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to warm through and absorb some of the flavors.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil and more grated parmesan if desired.
- Serve immediately, making sure each portion gets plenty of that incredible sauce!
Expert Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken
After making this dish dozens of times, I’ve learned a few tricks that make a big difference:
- Even thickness matters: Either pound or slice your chicken breasts for even cooking. Uneven chicken means some parts will be dry while others might be undercooked.
- Don’t rush the sear: That golden crust on the chicken provides tremendous flavor. Make sure your pan is hot before adding the chicken and resist the urge to move it around too much.
- Balance the sun-dried tomatoes: If you find sun-dried tomatoes too intense, reduce the amount to 1/3 cup. Conversely, if you’re a big fan, feel free to add up to 3/4 cup.
- Use freshly grated parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Grating it yourself ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
- Don’t skip the basil: The fresh herb finish brightens the rich sauce and provides beautiful color contrast.
- Rest before serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps retain its juices, resulting in more tender meat.
Common Questions About Marry Me Chicken
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe and tend to be more forgiving if slightly overcooked. Adjust cooking time as needed—thighs may take slightly less time to cook through.
How do I know when the chicken is done? The most reliable method is using an instant-read thermometer—chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Without a thermometer, check that the juices run clear when you cut into the thickest part of the breast.
Can I make this dairy-free? While the cream and cheese are signature elements of this dish, you can substitute full-fat coconut milk for the heavy cream and nutritional yeast for the parmesan. The flavor profile will change, but it will still be delicious.
What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes? If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, you can use 2 tablespoons of tomato paste plus 1/4 cup roasted red peppers for a similar depth of flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! The flavors actually develop nicely when made in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Is this recipe keto-friendly? Yes! With minimal carbs from the sun-dried tomatoes and small amount of flour, this dish works well for keto diets. You can further reduce carbs by using xanthan gum instead of flour as a thickener.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional content per serving (assumes 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 510 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Fat | 37g |
| Saturated Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Sodium | 985mg |
| Calcium | 215mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Variations to Try
The basic formula for Marry Me Chicken is endlessly adaptable. Here are some delicious variations to explore:
Spinach and Mushroom Marry Me Chicken
Add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms when sautéing the garlic, and stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach just before returning the chicken to the pan. The spinach will wilt perfectly in the hot sauce.
Artichoke Marry Me Chicken
Add 1 cup of quartered artichoke hearts (drained if using canned) to the sauce along with the sun-dried tomatoes for an additional Mediterranean twist.
Herbed Marry Me Chicken
Enhance the herb profile by adding 1 teaspoon each of fresh thyme and rosemary when making the sauce, and finish with a tablespoon of fresh tarragon along with the basil.
Spicy Marry Me Chicken
Double the red pepper flakes and add a diced jalapeño when sautéing the garlic for a version with significant heat.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with many sides. Here are my favorite ways to serve Marry Me Chicken:
Carb Options:
- Linguine or fettuccine pasta
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Fluffy white or brown rice
- Crusty artisan bread for sauce-sopping
- Cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option
Vegetable Sides:
- Roasted asparagus
- Steamed green beans with lemon
- Simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Sautéed zucchini and yellow squash
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerator Storage:
Store leftover Marry Me Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
While cream-based sauces aren’t ideal for freezing (they can separate when thawed), you can freeze this dish if necessary. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating:
For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
Equipment Recommendations
While this recipe doesn’t require specialized equipment, here are some tools that make preparation easier:
Best Skillet Options:
A 12-inch cast iron or stainless steel skillet provides excellent heat distribution and enough surface area to cook all components without crowding. Non-stick works too, but you won’t get quite the same fond (browned bits) for flavor development.
Meat Thermometer:
An instant-read digital thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking chicken perfectly. My personal recommendation is the ThermoPro TP19 for its speed and accuracy.
Kitchen Tongs:
Long-handled tongs make flipping and transferring the chicken breasts much easier and safer than using a spatula.
The Ultimate Dinner Party Menu
When I serve Marry Me Chicken for guests, I like to build a complete menu around it. Here’s my go-to dinner party plan:
Starter:
Simple Caprese Salad with balsamic glaze
Main Course:
Marry Me Chicken with linguine pasta and roasted asparagus
Dessert:
Classic Tiramisu or Lemon Sorbet
This menu has proven to be a crowd-pleaser time and again, with the Marry Me Chicken always being the star of the show!
Budget-Friendly Tips
While this dish feels luxurious, it can be made more economical:
- Buy chicken in bulk when on sale and freeze portions
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream
- Reduce the amount of parmesan to 1/3 cup
- Make your own chicken broth from leftover bones and vegetable scraps
- Use dried basil (1 teaspoon) if fresh is too expensive
- Shop for sun-dried tomatoes at stores with bulk bins where you can buy just what you need
Final Thoughts
Marry Me Chicken has earned its place as one of my absolute favorite recipes to share with loved ones. There’s something magical about the combination of tender chicken and that velvety, flavor-packed sauce that makes everyone at the table fall silent for a moment, just savoring each bite.
Whether you’re cooking for a special someone, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to an extraordinary meal, this recipe delivers every time. The best recipes aren’t just about combining ingredients—they’re about creating moments, memories, and connections. And in my experience, few dishes accomplish that as effortlessly as this one.
I hope you enjoy making and eating this Marry Me Chicken as much as I do. And who knows? Maybe it will live up to its name in your household too!
Q&A Section
Is Marry Me Chicken spicy? The recipe includes red pepper flakes which add a mild heat, but you can easily adjust the amount based on your preference. For no spice at all, simply omit the red pepper flakes. For extra heat, double the amount or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, though the method needs some adaptation. Sear the seasoned chicken first, then transfer to a slow cooker. Make the sauce as directed in the skillet, then pour over the chicken. Cook on low for 3-4 hours. The sauce may need additional thickening with a cornstarch slurry after cooking.
What kind of sun-dried tomatoes work best? I prefer the oil-packed variety as they’re more tender and flavorful. Drain them well before chopping. If you only have dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes, soak them in hot water for 30 minutes before using to rehydrate them.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? While heavy cream provides the richest texture, you can substitute half-and-half with good results. Whole milk will work in a pinch but produces a thinner sauce that may need additional thickening with a bit more flour or cornstarch.
How can I make this dish lighter? To reduce calories, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, reduce the amount of parmesan to 1/4 cup, and use only 1 tablespoon each of butter and olive oil for cooking the chicken. These changes will affect the richness but still yield a delicious result.
Why is my sauce breaking or curdling? This typically happens when the sauce is heated too quickly or to too high a temperature. Always add cream to a pan that’s no higher than medium heat, and never let cream-based sauces boil vigorously. If your sauce does break, sometimes whisking in a small amount of cold heavy cream can help reunify it.
Can I add vegetables directly to this dish? Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers all work wonderfully. Add hearty vegetables like mushrooms or peppers when sautéing the garlic, and more delicate greens like spinach just before returning the chicken to the pan.
What’s the origin of the name “Marry Me Chicken”? While the exact origin is unclear, the name comes from the idea that this chicken is so delicious, anyone you serve it to will be ready to propose marriage on the spot! It’s become a popular recipe online over the past few years, with many variations circulating.
