Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the perfect blend of rich, tangy, and savory flavors. The sun-dried tomatoes bring a sweet-tart punch, the cream adds velvety smoothness, and the Parmesan deepens the flavor. It’s special enough for date night but simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Plus, it pairs beautifully with pasta, potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of sauce.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Extra-virgin olive oil

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Kosher salt

• Freshly ground black pepper

• Garlic, finely chopped

• Fresh thyme leaves

• Crushed red pepper flakes

• Low-sodium chicken broth

• Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

• Heavy cream

• Parmesan cheese, finely grated

• Fresh basil, torn, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Season chicken generously with salt and pepper. Sear chicken for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate.

3. In the same skillet, heat remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add garlic, thyme, and red pepper flakes, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Stir in chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan. Season with salt to taste. Bring to a gentle simmer.

5. Return chicken and any juices to the skillet. Transfer to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked and juices run clear.

6. Plate the chicken and spoon sauce generously over the top. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a juicier texture.

• Add sautéed spinach or kale for extra greens in the sauce.

• Replace chicken with pork chops for a different protein option.

• Stir in a splash of white wine with the broth for added depth.

• Make it vegetarian by serving the sauce over pasta or roasted vegetables.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Why is it called “Marry Me” Chicken?

The name comes from its reputation for being so good it might inspire a marriage proposal after the first bite.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, thighs work well and stay tender during cooking.

Do I need an ovenproof skillet?

It’s recommended for convenience, but you can transfer everything to a baking dish before roasting.

Can I make this without heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or coconut cream, but the sauce will be slightly thinner.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer—165°F (74°C) in the thickest part means it’s done.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can sear the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead, then bake right before serving.

What’s the best side dish for Marry Me Chicken?

Mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread are perfect for soaking up the sauce.

Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked chicken with sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

How spicy is it with the red pepper flakes?

It’s mild, but you can adjust or omit the flakes for less heat.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

Conclusion

The Original Marry Me Chicken is more than just a delicious recipe—it’s a showstopper that combines rich, creamy sauce with tender, juicy chicken. Whether you’re cooking to impress someone special or just want a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home, this dish delivers big flavor with simple steps. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll make again and again, and it just might win someone’s heart.

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