Marry Me Chicken: The Irresistible Creamy Chicken Recipe to Win Hearts

Marry Me Chicken is a dish that’s not just about incredible flavor; it’s about a creamy, cheesy, sun-dried tomato sauce that elevates simple chicken breasts into a restaurant-quality meal at home. This recipe is beloved for its rich sauce, tender chicken, and quick preparation time, making it perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

The name “Marry Me Chicken” reportedly comes from food editors who found the dish so delicious, they joked about proposing marriage to it. The recipe gained viral popularity on social media in recent years, thanks to its creamy, comforting flavor with a subtle kick from crushed red pepper flakes and the aromatic freshness of basil. Whether cooked in a skillet or baked, this one-pan chicken dish combines rich cream, Parmesan, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes for an unforgettable meal.

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Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken

To create the perfect Marry Me Chicken, gather these ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 8 ounces each)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or substitute Italian seasoning)
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to spice preference)
• 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (preferably packed in oil, drained)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, torn, for garnish

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Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Oven and Chicken
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken
   In a large ovenproof skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to a plate to rest.
3. Make the Sauce Base
   In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped garlic, fresh thyme, and red pepper flakes, stirring frequently until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add Liquids and Tomatoes
   Pour in the chicken broth, add the sun-dried tomatoes, and stir in the heavy cream. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt as needed. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, simmering for a few minutes.
5. Bake the Chicken in the Sauce
   Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon some sauce over them, and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F / 75°C).
6. Finish and Serve
   Once done, transfer the chicken to a serving platter and spoon the creamy sauce over the top. Garnish generously with fresh torn basil leaves for a burst of color and fresh flavor.

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Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs make a huge difference in flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Parmesan: Grated Parmesan melts smoothly into the sauce, giving it a rich, cheesy texture.
• Control the Heat: Adjust crushed red pepper flakes according to your tolerance for spice.
• Cook Chicken Evenly: Use evenly sized chicken breasts for consistent cooking.
• Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it a bit longer before adding the chicken back in.

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Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Serve over Pasta or Rice: The creamy sauce is perfect over linguine, fettuccine, or a bed of steamed white rice.
• Try with Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs offer a juicier and more flavorful alternative.
• Add Vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus can be added to the sauce for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese to suit dietary needs.
• Add a Splash of White Wine: Deglaze the skillet with a dry white wine before adding broth for an extra depth of flavor.

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Nutritional Information

This dish is rich due to heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, making it higher in fat and calories. However, it’s high in protein and suitable as a satisfying meal paired with vegetables or a light salad for balance.

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Conclusion: Why Marry Me Chicken is a Must-Try Recipe

Marry Me Chicken is a perfect harmony of tender chicken and a luscious creamy tomato sauce that’s surprisingly easy to make but impressive in taste. It’s an ideal recipe for when one wants to spice up weeknight dinners or impress guests with minimal fuss. The vibrant flavors from sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs, and creamy Parmesan sauce make it a crowd-pleaser.

With a prep and cooking time totaling about 30-40 minutes, this recipe fits seamlessly into busy schedules without sacrificing flavor or presentation. Whether serving for family or a romantic dinner, Marry Me Chicken will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even proposing!