There’s something magical about the comforting embrace of a creamy chicken dish after a long day. Marry Me Chicken, with its tender chicken breasts drenched in a luscious garlic and sun-dried tomato sauce, has quickly become my go-to recipe for impressing guests or simply indulging myself. It’s hard to believe that such a decadent meal can be ready in just 30 minutes! Whether you’re looking to elevate a weeknight dinner or planning a romantic meal, this delightful dish brings a taste of restaurant-quality dining right into your kitchen. Join me as we explore the rich flavors of this quick and easy Marry Me Chicken that promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave everyone asking for more.
Why is Marry Me Chicken a Must-Try?
Ease of Preparation: This Marry Me Chicken recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something special.
Creamy Goodness: The rich sauce made with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan offers a flavor explosion that’ll delight your taste buds.
Versatile Dish: Pair it with pasta, rice, or even serve it over mashed potatoes. This dish adapts beautifully to your preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Guests will be raving about this meal, and you might even find someone proposing!
Healthful Indulgence: With around 419 calories per serving, it’s a satisfying yet sensible choice for a delightful dinner. Enjoy this Quick and Easy Marry Me Chicken with Creamy Sauce!
Marry Me Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Tender and juicy, they are the star of this dish; feel free to substitute with chicken thighs for more flavor.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken; you can use sea salt or table salt if needed.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Ideal for searing the chicken, adding richness; can be swapped with canola oil in a pinch.
For the Creamy Sauce
- Garlic Cloves – Adds aromatic depth; always use fresh garlic for the best results and avoid pre-minced.
- Heavy Cream – Creates a luscious sauce; for a dairy-free option, coconut cream works beautifully.
- Chicken Stock – Provides depth to the sauce; vegetable broth can be used for a different flavor profile.
- Chicken Bouillon (or Bouillon Cube) – Intensifies the chicken flavor; omit if you’re watching salt intake.
- Parmesan Cheese – Contributes creaminess and a nutty flavor; Grana Padano or nutritional yeast are great vegan alternatives.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Introduces a sweet and tangy kick; ensure they are drained well before adding to the sauce.
- Italian Seasoning – Balances the dish with herbal notes; use dried or fresh herbs based on what you have on hand.
- Black Pepper – Adds a mild kick; feel free to adjust to suit your taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – For a hint of heat; omit for a milder sauce.
For Garnish
- Fresh Basil – A refreshing touch to finish the dish; substitute with parsley if basil isn’t available.
To Serve
- Pasta or Mashed Potatoes – Complements the dish wonderfully, turning it into a complete meal; your preference shines through here!
This Marry Me Chicken dish not only satisfies the palate but also promises to be a memorable experience for all who try it!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken
Prepare the Chicken: Pat the boneless skinless chicken breasts dry and sprinkle them generously with kosher salt. This enhances their natural flavors; a little seasoning goes a long way!
Sear the Chicken: Heat extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for approximately 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Sauté the Garlic: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Lower the heat to medium, add the minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Create the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, chicken stock, chicken bouillon, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Whisk until everything is smooth and well-combined.
Simmer Together: Return the chicken to the skillet, cover it partially to retain moisture, and let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes. Cook until the sauce thickens and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Garnish and Serve: Finish the dish by adding fresh basil and the remaining Parmesan cheese. Serve the Marry Me Chicken over pasta or mashed potatoes for a delightful and complete meal.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Marry Me Chicken Variations
Let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful dish to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
- Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts for thighs to enhance flavor and juiciness, giving the dish a richer taste.
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken with firm tofu or hearty mushrooms, keeping the sauce for a comforting vegetarian dish.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a luscious, dairy-free sauce that still delivers creaminess.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat that will awaken your senses.
- Herb Infusion: Use fresh rosemary or thyme instead of Italian seasoning to impart a unique herbal twist to the sauce.
- Different Bases: Serve over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice to add variety and cater to your dietary preferences.
- Cheesy Variation: Add cream cheese or a splash of sour cream in the sauce for an extra creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or lime juice into the sauce for a bright, zesty finish that balances the richness beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Chicken preparations are a game changer for busy weeknights! You can season and sear the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve its juiciness. The creamy sauce can also be prepared a day ahead; just refrigerate it separately to maintain its rich flavor. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently over low heat, add the chicken back in, and simmer until warmed through. This approach not only saves you time but ensures you enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal effort, just as delicious as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken?
Enhance your dinner experience with delightful accompaniments that bring out the luscious flavors of your creamy chicken masterpiece.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes perfectly absorbs the velvety sauce, creating a heavenly combination you’ll savor.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread adds an aromatic touch and is ideal for soaking up every delicious drop of sauce.
Steamed Asparagus: A fresh and crisp vegetable that balances the richness of the dish; the slight bitterness creates a beautiful contrast.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and a zesty dressing provide a refreshing palate-cleanser, complementing the creamy elements of Marry Me Chicken.
Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned and fluffy rice adds a nutty flavor that pairs harmoniously with the sauce, creating a delightful base for your meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Assorted roasted veggies add a medley of flavors and natural sweetness, tossing in vibrant colors that brighten up your plate.
Light White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc elevates the meal, cutting through the creaminess and enhancing your dining experience beautifully.
Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a velvety-rich dessert that’s equally decadent, leaving guests feeling indulgently satisfied without being overly full.
These choices not only delight the senses but also create a picturesque table that invites conversation and enjoyment!
Expert Tips for Marry Me Chicken
Cook to Temp: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and tenderness; use a meat thermometer for best results.
Avoid Curdling: Be cautious not to let the heavy cream boil too vigorously while cooking; this will help maintain a smooth, creamy sauce.
Fresh is Best: Elevate the dish’s flavor by using fresh herbs, such as basil; add them right before serving to maximize aroma and taste.
Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much, simply add a splash of chicken stock to reach your desired consistency for the perfect Marry Me Chicken.
Mind the Salt: If using chicken bouillon, adjust other salt levels accordingly to avoid over-seasoning your dish.
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Ensure they cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: You can freeze Marry Me Chicken in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating: Gently reheat the chicken on the stovetop or in the microwave to prevent the cream from separating. Add a splash of chicken stock if the sauce is too thick.
Before Freezing: It’s best to avoid adding fresh herbs or cream until after reheating for improved quality and flavor.
Marry Me Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for my Marry Me Chicken recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose boneless skinless chicken breasts that are fresh and free from any dark spots or discoloration. If you prefer a more flavorful option, chicken thighs are a wonderful alternative, offering juiciness and tenderness that can elevate your dish.
How should I store leftover Marry Me Chicken?
You can store your leftover Marry Me Chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing, so it retains its delicious flavors. Reheating should be gentle to maintain the creamy texture—consider warming it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken, and what are the steps?
Absolutely! To freeze your Marry Me Chicken, first let it cool completely. Then transfer it to an airtight freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Remember to avoid adding fresh herbs or cream before freezing to preserve their quality—add them after reheating for optimal flavor.
What should I do if my creamy sauce curdles?
Very! If your sauce curdles while cooking, don’t fret. This happens if the cream gets too hot too quickly. To fix it, remove the skillet from heat, whisk in a little extra heavy cream slowly at a lower temperature, or add a splash of chicken stock to smooth out the texture. Keeping the temperature controlled while cooking can help prevent this in the future.
Is Marry Me Chicken safe for people with dairy allergies?
Not quite! Since the sauce contains heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, it isn’t suitable for those with dairy allergies. However, for a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. This way, you can still enjoy the rich flavors without the dairy!
What to serve with Marry Me Chicken?
I often suggest serving Marry Me Chicken over pasta or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with garlic bread and a light salad for the perfect balance. Feel free to mix things up according to your taste!
Savor the Moment with Marry Me Chicken in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the boneless skinless chicken breasts dry and sprinkle them generously with kosher salt.
- Heat extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for approximately 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Lower the heat to medium, add the minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Stir in the heavy cream, chicken stock, chicken bouillon, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Whisk until everything is smooth and well-combined.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, cover it partially to retain moisture, and let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Finish the dish by adding fresh basil and the remaining Parmesan cheese. Serve the Marry Me Chicken over pasta or mashed potatoes.