Marry Me Chicken

If you’re searching for your new go-to chicken dinner, look no further—Marry Me Chicken is absolutely irresistible! With a golden, juicy chicken breast smothered in a rich, creamy parmesan sauce bursting with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs, every bite will have you swooning.

There’s a reason this dish has gone viral: not only does it taste like something from your favorite Italian restaurant, but it’s also shockingly easy—just one skillet, 45 minutes, and you’re set! The combination of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe your hand in marriage).

Perfect for impressing date night, wowing dinner guests, or making any weeknight feel special. This recipe became a staple in my kitchen after the first bite—trust me, it’s that good!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Super easy and ready in under an hour—minimal prep, maximum flavor!
• Irresistibly creamy sauce that coats every juicy piece of chicken.
• One-pan recipe keeps cleanup simple and stress-free.
• Versatile for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Key Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Chicken Breasts

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of this dish, providing a lean, tender protein base that soaks up all that creamy, garlicky flavor. For best results, use chicken breasts of even thickness—pounding them lightly ensures even cooking and juiciness. If you prefer, boneless thighs can be substituted for an even richer, more succulent bite.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy-sweet pop and a burst of color to the creamy sauce. Oil-packed tomatoes are best—just drain before chopping so the sauce doesn’t become oily. If you only have dry-packed, rehydrate them in warm water or broth for 10 minutes before using. Feel free to add a little extra for bolder tomato flavor.

Heavy Cream

The luscious, velvety sauce comes together with a generous splash of heavy cream, making this dish ultra-rich and decadent. For a lighter version, half-and-half works, though the sauce will be a bit thinner. Avoid milk, as it won’t yield the same creamy texture.

Parmesan Cheese

Freshly grated parmesan melts into the sauce, adding nutty, salty depth. Always grate your own if possible—it melts better and has a fresher taste compared to pre-shredded. Pecorino Romano can be swapped in for a sharper, saltier kick.

Garlic

Garlic brings warmth and savory depth. Be sure to mince it finely so it distributes evenly through the sauce. If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two!

Instructions for Marry Me Chicken

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Prep and Season the Chicken

Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt and pepper. For even cooking, pound to an even thickness if needed.

Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chicken breasts in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temp). Remove to a plate and cover loosely with foil.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower heat to medium. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes to the same skillet. Sauté about 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let the garlic burn! Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1 minute.

Build the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits (hello, flavor!). Add heavy cream, parmesan, oregano, and thyme. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring, until the sauce is slightly thickened—about 3-4 minutes.

Return Chicken and Finish

Nestle the chicken back into the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Simmer on low for 3-5 minutes so the chicken absorbs the flavors and the sauce thickens more. Sprinkle with fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Recipe Variations

Make It Dairy-Free

Swap the heavy cream for canned full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free parmesan substitute. The sauce will be a bit more tropical but just as rich and creamy.

Spice It Up

Craving more heat? Double the red pepper flakes or stir in a teaspoon of Calabrian chili paste for a spicy kick that balances the creamy sauce beautifully.

Swap the Protein

Try this recipe with boneless pork chops or even salmon fillets—both pair wonderfully with the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce.

Gluten-Free Option

This dish is naturally gluten-free! Just make sure your chicken broth and parmesan are certified gluten-free to be safe.

Add Greens

For extra nutrition, toss in a generous handful of baby spinach or chopped kale to the sauce before returning the chicken. It wilts down quickly and adds lovely color.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Marry Me Chicken over a bed of al dente fettuccine, creamy mashed potatoes, or fluffy rice to soak up every drop of that luscious sauce. Add a crisp green salad or roasted asparagus on the side for a complete meal. Don’t forget an extra sprinkle of parmesan and fresh basil for the perfect finishing touch!

Storage and 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 cream if the sauce has thickened. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second bursts, stirring between each. Freezing is possible, but the cream sauce may separate slightly—if you do freeze, thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Me Chicken (FAQ)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and result in an even juicier, richer dish.

Q: Can I make Marry Me Chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prep the sauce and chicken in advance. Store them separately and combine when ready to serve for best texture.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce as needed.

Ready to fall in love with dinner? Marry Me Chicken is a total showstopper—creamy, comforting, and oh-so-easy. I can’t wait for you to try it! If you make this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. Happy cooking!