Marry Me Chicken
Marry Me Chicken is a beloved skillet recipe where golden-seared chicken simmers in a creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce for ultimate comfort food appeal.
Imagine tender bites bathed in a silky, garlic-kissed sauce, filling your kitchen with the warm, savory aroma of something truly special each forkful melts in your mouth and feels like a cozy hug. I first made this dish on a chilly weeknight when only homemade comfort would do, and my family instantly declared it a new favorite now it’s requested for everything from easy date nights to heartfelt Sunday suppers. What sets this version apart? It’s irresistibly rich yet totally doable, with approachable steps and pantry-friendly ingredients that make magic out of the everyday. Let’s create a dish that makes every dinner feel like a little celebration.
Why This Cozy Chicken Dish Wins Hearts
- Buttery tenderness and creamy sauce: Every bite of Marry Me Chicken melts in your mouth, thanks to the golden-seared chicken nestled in a velvety, sun-dried tomato cream sauce. It’s a hug in a skillet rich, savory, and endlessly inviting.
- Comfort food made simple for weeknights: This recipe takes pantry basics and spins them into something magical with barely any fuss. The steps are approachable, with homey aromas that turn an ordinary evening into a mini celebration.
- Feels special enough for celebrations: Whether it’s date night, a family Sunday, or a friend’s visit, the layers of flavor and the beautiful, creamy sauce make it feel like you’ve pulled out all the stops without spending all day in the kitchen.
- A sensory invitation: As you stir, sizzle, and serve, Marry Me Chicken fills your home with warmth and brings everyone to the table. It’s comfort food that makes people feel cherished and at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The heart of Marry Me Chicken tender, juicy, and perfect for soaking up all that glorious sauce.
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper: For bright seasoning that brings the chicken and sauce to life.
- Olive oil: Gives a golden, flavorful sear and a kiss of richness feel free to swap with another neutral oil if preferred.
- Minced garlic: Adds a cozy depth and a gentle hum of savory comfort throughout every bite.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Lends subtle savory notes and ensures the creamy sauce doesn’t overpower the dish.
- Heavy cream: Choose a quality cream for ultra-luxurious texture half-and-half can work for a lighter version.
- Parmesan cheese: Shredded fresh from the block melts smoothly and adds that irresistible nutty saltiness.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Packed in oil for maximum flavor they bring tang and a touch of sweetness; use jarred or from the deli.
- Dried oregano and crushed red pepper flakes: For herby warmth and a gentle, cozy heat (adjust to taste).
- Fresh basil and extra parmesan: For a final flourish of color and cheesy goodness at the table.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken
- Pound and Season Chicken
Lay your chicken breasts on a board and gently pound them until they’re an even thickness this ensures juicy, tender bites. Pat dry, sprinkle generously with salt and pepper, and let them rest while you heat up your skillet. - Sear for Golden Goodness
Heat oil in a large skillet watch for the shimmer and that subtle, nutty aroma. Sear the chicken on both sides until you see golden speckles; the kitchen will start to smell amazing. Set the chicken aside, leaving all those tasty bits in the pan.
- Build the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat and add minced garlic, swirling it just until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up those golden bits for deep flavor, then remove from heat and gently whisk in the heavy cream until beautifully blended. - Melt and Infuse
Sprinkle in parmesan and stir until silky and smooth no graininess. Toss in sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes, letting the sauce bubble softly and thicken until it coats a spoon. - Nestle & Bake
Return the chicken to the skillet and flip to thoroughly coat in the creamy sauce. Slide the pan into the oven until the chicken is perfectly cooked through, making it ultra-tender. - Rest & Serve
Spoon extra sauce over each chicken breast and let them rest, soaking up all the cozy flavors. Garnish with fresh basil and another sprinkle of parmesan for pure comfort.
Want more dreamy, creamy ideas? Try my creamy chicken and gnocchi for another warm, weeknight favorite!
Tips for the Best Results
- Pat chicken dry, then sear for golden crispiness: Moisture is the enemy of a beautiful crust. Make sure to really pat the chicken dry, season well, and give it space in the hot skillet so it turns golden with those crave-worthy crispy edges.
- Whisk cream in slowly for the silkiest sauce: Don’t rush this step let the pan cool a little before adding cream, then whisk gently as it melds with the broth. This keeps the sauce glossy and creamy, never grainy or split.
- Melt the cheese fully for extra smoothness: Let the parmesan slowly melt into the sauce, stirring all the while until you can see a shiny, velvety finish.
- Taste and customize with herbs or spice: Your Marry Me Chicken, your signature touches! Adjust the oregano, pepper flakes, or salt to suit your mood or try a twist inspired by creamy garlic chicken for a personal spin.
- Rest before serving: Letting the chicken sit a few minutes in the sauce keeps it juicy and allows all those delicious flavors to settle in.
Variations & Ingredient Swaps
Dairy-Free or Gluten-Free: For a dairy-free Marry Me Chicken, use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream and swap in your favorite dairy-free parmesan. If you’re gluten-free, this recipe is naturally safe just double-check your chicken broth and sun-dried tomatoes for hidden wheat.
Protein Play: Switch chicken breasts for juicy chicken thighs, pork chops, or even firm tofu for a cozy vegetarian twist. Each brings its own texture and soaks up the creamy sauce in all the best ways.
Add Veggies: Stir chopped spinach or sliced mushrooms into the cream sauce for a colorful dose of comfort. Wilted greens or peas add freshness while still keeping things weeknight-simple.
Pantry Flexibility: Sun-dried tomatoes from a jar bring deep flavor, but you can substitute with roasted red peppers or even a spoonful of tomato paste in a pinch. Fresh herbs like basil are lovely, but dried work in a hurry.
Spice Level: For a zippy spin, try a recipe like pepper jack crack chicken as inspiration, or simply add more red pepper flakes to your sauce.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- In the Fridge: Place leftover Marry Me Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll keep its creamy texture and deep flavors for a few days just enough for cozy leftovers.
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze cooled chicken and sauce in a sturdy container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating so the sauce stays smooth (and not grainy).
- Gentle Reheat: For best results, warm leftovers slowly on the stovetop over low heat, swirling frequently. This helps keep the creamy sauce from separating.
- Microwave Trick: If you’re short on time, microwave in short bursts and stir often. Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen if needed.
- Meal Prep Magic: Make the chicken and sauce ahead, but wait to add fresh basil until serving. For more weeknight winners, check out skillet chicken and green beans for easy meal prep inspiration!
Perfect Pairings & Serving Ideas
- Fluffy mashed potatoes: The pillowy creaminess is the dreamiest canvas to soak up every drop of that sun-dried tomato sauce.
- Steamed rice or buttery orzo: Either one captures the sauce’s coziness, letting every forkful shine.
- Crusty artisan bread: Tear off a warm piece and drag it through the garlicky, creamy sauce it’s what chilly nights were made for.
- Roasted or sautéed veggies: Try asparagus, green beans, or a simple medley for a fresh, colorful balance on your plate.
- Seasonal salads: A crisp, lemony salad can cut through the richness and make the whole meal sing with freshness.
- For the ultimate comfort spread: Pair Marry Me Chicken with cheesy chicken spinach pasta, roasted potatoes, and a big family-style salad for any cozy gathering, from Sunday supper to special celebrations.
This Marry Me Chicken features golden-seared chicken breasts nestled in a velvety sun-dried tomato cream sauce, delivering comfort and rich, savory flavor in every bite. It’s an easy yet show-stopping dish perfect for weeknights or special occasions.”,”notes”:”
To ensure juiciness, pat the chicken dry and don’t overcrowd the skillet. For the creamiest sauce, add the cream off the heat and whisk gently. Dairy-free? Substitute full-fat coconut milk and dairy-free parmesan. Serve over mashed potatoes, orzo, or alongside roasted vegetables. Rest the chicken in the sauce before serving for extra flavor. Leftovers can be refrigerated for a few days or frozen for later enjoyment. Reheat gently to keep the sauce smooth.
Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts on cutting board. Trim chicken if needed, then pound chicken flat until all chicken breasts are same size and thickness.
- Pat chicken breasts dry on all sides with paper towels. Season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper on both sides.
- Place a large skillet on stovetop over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil and allow to heat until shimmery. Add seasoned chicken breasts and sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until lightly golden. Transfer seared chicken to a plate; do not drain skillet.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Reduce heat under skillet to medium-low. Add 2 tablespoons minced garlic and sauté 30-60 seconds or until fragrant.
- Add 3/4 cup chicken broth to skillet, scraping up browned bits. Move skillet off heat for 2-3 minutes, then whisk in 1/2 cup heavy cream until blended. Sprinkle in 1/2 cup grated parmesan and whisk until melted. Return skillet to medium-low heat for 1-2 minutes to warm.
- Add 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well and bring sauce to a slow simmer. Adjust seasoning as desired.
- Return seared chicken to skillet, flipping to coat in sauce. Insert thermometer if using. Place skillet in oven and bake for 13-18 minutes, or until chicken’s internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Remove skillet from oven, spoon sauce over chicken, and allow to rest 5 minutes to finish cooking to 165°F.
- Serve chicken topped with additional sauce, chiffonaded basil, and extra parmesan. Pair as desired and enjoy!
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Can I make Marry Me Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook Marry Me Chicken a day in advance and gently reheat it when you’re ready to serve. I like to keep the sauce and chicken together in the fridge, so the flavors really settle in a little rest actually makes it even more comforting.
What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
No sun-dried tomatoes? No worries! Roasted red peppers are a lovely swap, adding mild sweetness and color. Even a spoonful of tomato paste will work in a pinch, giving you that cozy depth and savory note without overpowering the sauce.
How do I keep the sauce from splitting when reheating?
For a silky sauce every time, reheat leftovers slowly over low heat, stirring often. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of cream or broth. This gentle method keeps everything creamy and luscious just like freshly made.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Definitely! You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or even a rich, unsweetened oat creamer for a dairy-free twist. The sauce stays dreamy without feeling too heavy, so you’ll still get all the cozy, special-occasion feels.
