If you’ve been searching for a dinner recipe that’s impressively indulgent yet wonderfully easy, look no further. This Marry Me Chicken lives up to its name with its creamy, flavorful sauce that feels like pure love in every bite.

Whether you’re wooing someone special or just treating yourself to an elevated weeknight meal, this dish is a must-try. Packed with tender chicken in a rich, sun-dried tomato cream sauce, it’s the perfect centerpiece for cozy family dinners or celebratory occasions.

And who knows? It might just inspire a proposal by the time you serve it! You can also enjoy chicken salad recipe with grapes just as much on another special evening.

Marry Me Chicken Recipe — Credits IG: @thereciperebel

Ingredients

3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
4 (8-oz) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
½ cup heavy cream
¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
Torn fresh basil, for serving

Cooking Time

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Serves: 4 servings

Equipment: What You’ll Need

Large ovenproof skillet
Tongs
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

How to Make This Recipe? Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to fall in love with dinner? Follow this easy step-by-step guide to make the irresistible Marry Me Chicken right in your own kitchen!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Take your chicken breasts and season them generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Searing the chicken at this step is key to locking in the juices and creating a golden, flavorful crust. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes per side, just until golden brown. Remove the chicken onto a plate and set it aside for later.

Step 2: Build the Base Flavors

Using the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and reduce the heat slightly. Toss in the chopped garlic, fresh thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir them gently for about a minute. This step releases all those wonderful aromas into the oil, creating the flavorful base of the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Now, pour in the chicken broth and stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. These little gems add a bright tang and sweetness that elevates the dish. Add the heavy cream for a luscious richness and follow with Parmesan cheese to bring depth and body to the sauce. Stir occasionally, allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken slightly.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Return the seared chicken, along with its juices, back to the skillet. Spoon some of that creamy sauce over the chicken to coat it before transferring the skillet to the oven. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken is completely cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, top each piece of chicken with fresh torn basil leaves for added brightness and aroma. Serve immediately with plenty of sauce spooned over the chicken. If you’re looking for a complementary salad dish, a chicken Caesar salad recipe would add a lovely touch to complete your meal.

Why I Love Making This Recipe?

For me, cooking Marry Me Chicken brings warmth and joy to the dinner table. I love how simple the steps are, yet the result feels like a restaurant-worthy meal. It’s one of those recipes I can turn to when I want to make something special without stressing over complicated techniques. The creamy sauce and tangy sun-dried tomatoes are simply irresistible, and each time I make it, my family asks for seconds!

Tips and Variations: Easy Ways to Switch It Up

Sometimes when making this recipe, I like to experiment with subtle changes, and they never disappoint. Here’s what you can try:

Swap chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a more tender and juicy result.
If you’re craving a little extra richness, throw in a bit more Parmesan cheese.
To add some greens, toss in fresh spinach leaves during the last few minutes of cooking. Trust me, they soak up the sauce beautifully.
Love heat? Add a pinch more crushed red pepper for extra spice.
For a low-carb option, serve over zucchini noodles for a fresh, healthy twist.

Perfect Pairings for This Dish

This dish shines with sides that soak up the delicious sauce! Pair your Marry Me Chicken with buttery mashed potatoes or crusty garlic bread. If you’re seeking some crunch, a side of roasted green beans or a crisp mixed greens salad completes the meal perfectly. Looking for something cozy? Try serving it over creamy farfalle pasta. You could also complement it with something like a southern chicken salad recipe for a dynamic and memorable dinner experience.

Storage and Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet and warm over low heat. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an estimate per serving:

Calories: 530
Protein: 46g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fat: 34g

Common Mistakes to Avoid for Better Results

The great thing about Marry Me Chicken is how foolproof it is, but keeping these mistakes in mind will help guarantee stunning results every time:

Skipping the sear: Don’t skip searing the chicken. It creates a flavorful crust and seals in the juices.
Overcooking the chicken: Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken.
Skipping the fresh herbs: Fresh thyme and basil are essential for balanced flavor.
Not using sun-dried tomatoes: This ingredient is the secret to the dish’s tangy sweetness. Don’t substitute with fresh tomatoes.

Take your time with each step, and this dish will never fail to impress. Marry Me Chicken is an absolute keeper, from the first bite to the last spoonful of sauce!

Ash Tyrrell