When the week drags on and my motivation to cook begins to dwindle, I often find myself yearning for a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. Enter Marry Me Chicken—an irresistible recipe that could just buy me a one-way ticket to culinary bliss! Picture this: tender chicken breasts bathed in a creamy parmesan sauce, tinged with the sun-dried sweetness of tomatoes and the fragrant kick of garlic.
I stumbled upon this delightful dish during one of those busy weeknights when fast food seemed like the only option. But after just one mouthful, I knew I had discovered a keeper. Whether you’re looking to impress that special someone or simply craving a moment of comfort amidst the chaos of everyday life, this dish strikes the perfect balance between elegance and ease. In just 35 minutes, you can turn an ordinary dinner into a soulful celebration. Let’s dive into this delectable recipe that might just inspire a proposal!
Why You'll Love This Marry Me Chicken
- This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner without sacrificing flavor.
- The combination of creamy parmesan sauce and sun-dried tomatoes creates a rich and indulgent dish that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Versatility is key, as Marry Me Chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides, making it a great fit for any occasion.
- Its stunning presentation, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan, is sure to impress guests and make any meal feel special.
Marry Me Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – the star of the dish that stays juicy and tender.
- Salt and pepper – essential for enhancing the flavors.
For the Sauce
- Olive oil – provides a rich base for cooking the chicken.
- Italian seasoning – a delightful blend that brings a burst of herbal flavor.
- Garlic – minced for a fragrant kick that complements the creamy sauce.
- Sun-dried tomatoes – adds a tangy sweetness that elevates the dish.
- Heavy cream – creates a luxurious, velvety sauce that envelops the chicken.
- Grated Parmesan cheese – gives depth and a savory finish to the sauce.
- Dried basil – to enhance the Italian flavor profile.
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley – adds a pop of color and freshness to the final dish.
This Marry Me Chicken is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken
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Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides for a flavorful base that enhances every bite.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering; this will create the perfect sear for your chicken.
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Sear the chicken breasts for about 5–7 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through—this is when they’ll develop lovely flavors!
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Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate, keeping it warm while you create the sauce.
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Add minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant; this will infuse the oil with delicious aroma.
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Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Pour in the heavy cream and add grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
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Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning that luscious sauce over them. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, thickening the sauce nicely.
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Sprinkle in dried basil and taste to adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper—this step is key to perfecting your dish.
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Serve the chicken hot, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired—this not only adds flavor but elevates the presentation.
Optional: Serve with a side of pasta or a bed of greens for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the creamy sauce’s texture and flavor.
Freezer: You can freeze Marry Me Chicken for up to 3 months. Cool completely, then transfer portions to freezer-safe bags or containers, removing excess air.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream to restore creaminess.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent any food safety risks.
Marry Me Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will take your Marry Me Chicken to new heights of flavor and enjoyment!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream and nutritional yeast for Parmesan for a creamy, vegan-friendly option. This will give it a unique, tropical twist.
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Pasta Lover’s Delight: Serve the chicken over a bed of fettuccine or penne to soak up that delicious sauce. The pasta will add satisfying carbs for a fuller meal.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a delightful heat that complements the creaminess. Spice lovers will rejoice!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of basil for a fragrant update. Each herb brings its own character, making the dish even more aromatic.
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Mushroom Medley: Toss in sliced mushrooms along with the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for an earthy flavor boost and a heartier texture. They add a lovely umami punch!
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Nutty Crunch: Top with chopped toasted walnuts or pine nuts before serving for an extra nutty crunch. The texture contrast enhances the creamy sauce beautifully.
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Zesty Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the sauce and add zest for a bright, tangy finish, elevating the richness and refreshing your palate.
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Veggie Packed: Include spinach or kale into the sauce before adding the chicken for a nutritious, colorful twist. This not only adds layers of flavor but also increases the dish’s health factor.
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Chicken preparations are a dream for busy home cooks! You can season the chicken breasts and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to deepen. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy sauce by sautéing the garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and combining it with heavy cream and Parmesan, then refrigerate that mixture for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently, add the seared chicken, and allow it to simmer until heated through—your Marry Me Chicken will taste just as delicious as if it were freshly made! This simple strategy allows you to enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality meal without the stress on busy weeknights.
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken?
Creating a memorable meal is all about blending flavors and textures that uplift each other beautifully.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes soaks up the luscious sauce, creating a comforting forkful with every bite. Pairing these two is like long-lost friends reconnecting at the dinner table, bringing warmth and love to your meal.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the leftover sauce, adding a delightful crunch. The aromatic garlic complements the flavors in the chicken, making it a handheld indulgence that everyone will adore.
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Steamed Asparagus: Bright green, tender-crisp asparagus adds a pop of freshness and vibrant color to the plate. Its subtle bitterness contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce, offering a nourishing balance that elevates the whole dish.
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Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with crunchy romaine, tangy dressing, and parmesan echoes the dish’s flavors while offering a refreshing crunch. It’s a delightful counterpart that adds dimension without overshadowing the star of the meal.
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Lemon Risotto: Creamy, dreamy lemon risotto brings a touch of brightness to your plate, cutting through the richness of the chicken. The zesty notes provide a refreshing lift, turning your dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables brings earthy sweetness and caramelization that amplifies the dish’s depth. As the flavors meld, every bite becomes a lovely reminder of comfort food at its finest.
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A Light White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors of the chicken and sun-dried tomatoes beautifully. Its acidity balances the creaminess, turning dinner into a delightful experience worth savoring.
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Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with a rich chocolate mousse, adding a touch of indulgence. The contrast between the creamy, decadent dessert and the savory entrée leaves a lasting impression that lingers sweetly.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing Marry Me Chicken, make sure to season the chicken breasts thoroughly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor perfectly.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing the chicken to ensure even cooking and a golden crust on each piece.
- For a richer sauce, allow the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to simmer gently together; this helps create a velvety texture and deeper flavor.
- Remember to monitor the chicken carefully while simmering to prevent it from overcooking, which can dry it out.
Marry Me Chicken Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Choose chicken breasts that are plump and have a consistent color. They should be firm to the touch and free of any dark spots or discoloration. Look for a sell-by date that is still a few days out to ensure freshness.
How should I store leftovers of Marry Me Chicken?
Very! After preparing Marry Me Chicken, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the creamy sauce from separating, try to consume them within that timeframe for the best flavor and texture.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken?
Definitely! To freeze, allow the chicken to cool completely after cooking. Then, transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to remove excess air. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for the best results.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
No worries! If your sauce turns out thicker than you’d like, it can be easily adjusted. Simply add a splash of chicken broth or additional heavy cream while reheating in a skillet. Stir well until you reach the desired consistency. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning afterward!
Is this dish suitable for people with lactose intolerance?
While Marry Me Chicken is delicious, it does contain dairy from the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. If you’re lactose intolerant, consider using lactose-free cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative. These swaps can still yield a creamy and flavorful dish!
How can I ensure the chicken remains juicy and tender?
To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, be sure not to overcrowd the skillet when searing. If the skillet is too crowded, the chicken can steam instead of sear. Sear the chicken on medium-high heat for about 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Equipment
- Large skillet
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts the star of the dish that stays juicy and tender
- to taste salt essential for enhancing the flavors
- to taste pepper essential for enhancing the flavors
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil provides a rich base for cooking the chicken
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning a delightful blend that brings a burst of herbal flavor
- 3 cloves garlic, minced for a fragrant kick that complements the creamy sauce
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped adds a tangy sweetness that elevates the dish
- 1 cup heavy cream creates a luxurious, velvety sauce that envelops the chicken
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese gives depth and a savory finish to the sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil to enhance the Italian flavor profile
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped adds a pop of color and freshness to the final dish
Instructions
How to Make Marry Me Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides for a flavorful base.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sear the chicken breasts for about 5–7 minutes on each side until they're golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate, keeping it warm.
- Add minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and add grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined and gently simmer.
- Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle in dried basil and taste to adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve the chicken hot, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
