Are you ready to fall head over heels for the Marry Me Chicken recipe? This creamy, flavorful dish has taken the food world by storm, and for good reason! With its irresistible combination of tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, garlicky Parmesan-infused sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, it’s the kind of meal that can turn a casual dinner into a memorable experience.
Whether you’re trying to impress your special someone, create a family-favorite meal, or simply treat yourself, Marry Me Chicken delivers every single time. Trust us, this is one recipe you’ll want to say “I do” to!
Cooking Time for Marry Me Chicken
Wondering how long it’ll take to whip up this delicious masterpiece? Here’s the breakdown to help you plan better:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
This recipe is perfect if you’re short on time but still want a meal that feels indulgent. To save even more time, prep your ingredients (mince garlic, measure out the cream and cheese, etc.) before you start cooking. Keeping everything organized will ensure this dish comes together effortlessly.
Must-Have Kitchen Tools
To make your Marry Me Chicken recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen equipment. Here’s a quick list to ensure you’re fully prepared:
- Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed frying pan
For searing the chicken and creating a perfect creamy base. - Sharp chef’s knife
To slice your chicken breasts cleanly and chop garnishes. - Garlic press
Ideal if you don’t want to manually mince garlic cloves. - Measuring cups and spoons
Precision is key when working with cream and cheese. - Whisk
To keep the sauce smooth and lump-free. - Tongs
Handy for flipping chicken easily without breaking it.
Having these tools on hand will make cooking this dish a breeze and ensure a professional-quality result every time.
Ingredients you’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create your dreamy Marry Me Chicken. We’ve included some variations and swaps so you can customize the recipe to your liking:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs as a softer alternative)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (opt for avocado oil for a healthier twist)
- Salt and pepper to season
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (use roasted garlic for a caramelized flavor)
- 1 cup heavy cream (half-and-half is a lighter alternative)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste)
- ½ cup chicken stock (use low-sodium for better control of salt levels)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (substitute cherry tomatoes for a fresher, less tangy flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a hint of heat)
- Fresh basil leaves for finishing
Feel free to adapt these ingredients depending on your dietary preferences or pantry supplies. For example, coconut cream can replace heavy cream for a dairy-free version, or you can add baby spinach for extra greens.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Step by Step?
Follow these simple instructions to whip up your Marry Me Chicken.
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This step helps lock in flavor and ensures a good sear later on.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your chicken breasts and sear until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Don’t cook them all the way through just yet; they’ll finish cooking in the sauce. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Create the Sauce Base
Lower the heat slightly and toss in minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant (around 30 seconds), being careful not to burn it. Stir in the chicken stock, scraping up the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and whisk gently as it bubbles. Reduce the heat and add the Parmesan cheese, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir continuously until the cheese melts into a rich, smooth sauce.
Step 5: Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes for pops of tangy sweetness that elevate the dish.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them in the sauce. Lower the heat, cover with a lid, and simmer for about 10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and juicy.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and added aroma. Serve hot and enjoy!
Must-Try Serving Ideas
Pair your Marry Me Chicken with these sides to make it a complete meal:
- Pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes
Think creamy mashed potatoes or buttery pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. - Steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans
They add color and balance to the rich flavors. - Crusty garlic bread
Perfect for sopping up every last spoonful of sauce!
Creative Serving Tips
Turn the leftovers into a sandwich filling, toss the chicken and sauce with penne pasta, or shred and use it as a pizza topping for a unique twist.
Tips to Perfect Your Marry Me Chicken
Want to level up your dish? Here are some expert tips:
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly into the sauce. Buy a block and grate it yourself for a velvety texture.
- Don’t Flip Overflip the Chicken: Overcooking can dry out the chicken. Sear briefly for color, then finish cooking in the sauce.
- Customizable Spice Levels: Adjust red pepper flakes based on your preference for heat.
Bonus Ideas for Extra Nutrition
For a healthier version, substitute half the cream with Greek yogurt and add a handful of spinach or kale to boost the nutritional value.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’re getting in one serving of Marry Me Chicken (approximate values):
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fat: 28g
Please note nutritional values can vary based on ingredient brands and adjustments.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? No worries! Here’s how to store Marry Me Chicken properly:
- Refrigeration: Transfer to an airtight container and store for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Heat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or chicken stock to refresh the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken rubbery.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be an excellent substitute for chicken breasts in the Marry Me Chicken recipe. Thighs are juicier, tender, and have slightly more fat, which boosts the overall flavor of the dish.
They also hold up well during cooking, giving you a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. When using thighs, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they often take longer to cook through than breasts. Ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee they are fully cooked. This alternative adds variety and layers of flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
Substituting heavy cream is simple and opens up plenty of options. For a lighter dish, you can use half-and-half while maintaining the creaminess. Coconut cream is a great dairy-free alternative and adds a subtle, sweet taste to the sauce.
Cashew cream is another excellent non-dairy substitute that provides a rich texture. If you want a tangy twist, Greek yogurt can also work, but you may need to thin it out slightly with milk or stock. Whatever you choose, these options ensure you still achieve a delectable, creamy sauce!
Marry Me Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs as a softer alternative)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil opt for avocado oil for a healthier twist
- Salt and pepper to season
- 3 garlic cloves minced (use roasted garlic for a caramelized flavor)
- 1 cup heavy cream half-and-half is a lighter alternative
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste
- ½ cup chicken stock use low-sodium for better control of salt levels
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped (substitute cherry tomatoes for a fresher, less tangy flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for a hint of heat
- Fresh basil leaves for finishing
Instructions
- Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This step helps lock in flavor and ensures a good sear later on.
- Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your chicken breasts and sear until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Don’t cook them all the way through just yet; they’ll finish cooking in the sauce. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Lower the heat slightly and toss in minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant (around 30 seconds), being careful not to burn it. Stir in the chicken stock, scraping up the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Pour in the heavy cream and whisk gently as it bubbles. Reduce the heat and add the Parmesan cheese, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir continuously until the cheese melts into a rich, smooth sauce.
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes for pops of tangy sweetness that elevate the dish.
- Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them in the sauce. Lower the heat, cover with a lid, and simmer for about 10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and juicy.
- Finish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and added aroma. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly into the sauce. Buy a block and grate it yourself for a velvety texture.
- Don’t Flip Overflip the Chicken: Overcooking can dry out the chicken. Sear briefly for color, then finish cooking in the sauce.
- Customizable Spice Levels: Adjust red pepper flakes based on your preference for heat.
