The Original Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, savory chicken dish featuring golden-seared chicken breasts baked in a luscious sauce of sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, garlic, thyme, and cream. Rich, tangy, and comforting, it’s a restaurant-worthy meal that’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough for date nights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop + Oven-Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
Fresh basil leaves, torn, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Sear for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer chicken to a plate.
- In the same skillet, heat remaining 2 tbsp olive oil. Add garlic, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan. Season with salt to taste and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Return chicken and any accumulated juices to the skillet.
- Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Plate chicken, spoon sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
- Add sautéed spinach or kale for extra greens.
- For a deeper flavor, add a splash of white wine with the broth.
- This sauce pairs wonderfully with pasta, potatoes, or crusty bread.
- Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored and gently reheated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 640 mg
- Fat: 31 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg
