One Skillet, Big Flavor: How to Make Marry Me Chicken

Published on Oct 18, 2024

Hey food lovers! I’m beyond excited to share one of the most magical dishes in the culinary world: Marry Me Chicken! I know, the name alone makes you curious. Can a dish be so good that it could inspire a proposal?

Well, after you taste it, you’ll totally understand why! This creamy, savory, and irresistible chicken dish is as heartwarming as a love story, and trust me, it has the power to win over even the toughest critics. Let’s dive into the details and make this love-filled recipe step by step!

Why is it called Marry Me Chicken?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the recipe, let me tell you a little secret about the name. Rumor has it that after one bite of this delectable dish, anyone you serve it to will fall head over heels in love with you. It’s so divine, you’ll have them asking, “Will you marry me?” If you’re already married, don't worry—it still works wonders by rekindling the romance in the most delicious way possible!

Now, let’s get to the business of cooking this masterpiece.

Ingredients

To make the perfect Marry Me Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
(Pro tip: Choose medium-sized breasts for even cooking and juicier results)
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
(Good quality olive oil will bring out the richness in the chicken’s flavor)
3 garlic cloves, minced
(Garlic lovers, you can always add a little extra for that aromatic kick)
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
(Fresh herbs bring such brightness to the dish, but dried works just as well if that's what you have on hand)
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
(Don’t worry, this isn’t too spicy! It just adds a nice subtle heat to balance the creaminess)
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
(The low-sodium version gives you more control over the salt levels)
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
(These tangy gems add an intense burst of flavor that cuts through the richness of the cream)
¾ cup heavy cream
(Oh yes, the creamy sauce is the heart of this dish!)
½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
(Parmesan adds saltiness and that umami goodness that takes this sauce to the next level)
Freshly torn basil leaves (for serving)
(The basil adds a fresh and fragrant touch right at the end—don’t skip it!)

The Secret to Perfect Marry Me Chicken

This dish stands out because of the beautifully balanced flavors—the creaminess, the hint of spice, and the tang from sun-dried tomatoes. Each component plays a crucial role in making this chicken dish unforgettable. Now that we’ve got the ingredients sorted, let’s move on to how we put it all together.

Instructions

Let’s talk about the process. The best part about Marry Me Chicken? It sounds fancy, but it's surprisingly easy! Even if you’re not a seasoned chef, you’ll look like one when you present this dish at the dinner table.

Step 1: Preheat the oven and prep the chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While your oven is heating, season the chicken breasts with a bit of salt and pepper on both sides. This will lock in the flavor during the searing process.

Step 2: Sear the chicken
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken breasts. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown. You’re not cooking them all the way through just yet—this step is to get a nice, flavorful crust on the outside. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Create the sauce base
In the same skillet (don’t clean it—you want those flavorful bits left from the chicken!), reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic, fresh thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds to a minute, just until the garlic is fragrant.

Step 4: Add the liquids and sun-dried tomatoes
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze and lift up all those browned bits. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, letting them simmer for about 2-3 minutes. They’ll release their tangy goodness into the sauce.

Step 5: Creamy indulgence
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to simmer gently. Then, add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts smoothly into the sauce. This will make your sauce luxuriously creamy and cheesy!

Step 6: Bring back the chicken
Nestle the chicken breasts back into the skillet, making sure they are fully coated with the creamy sauce. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. You want an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly moist chicken.

Step 7: The finishing touches
Once the chicken is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh torn basil leaves over the top. This brightens up the dish and adds a beautiful pop of color.

Step 8: Serve and enjoy!
Serve your Marry Me Chicken hot, with a spoonful of that irresistible sauce on top. Pair it with pasta, rice, or a simple side of steamed vegetables. And don’t forget some crusty bread to mop up every last bit of that creamy sauce!

Total Cook Time:

This heavenly dish comes together in just about 40 minutes. That’s right! In less than an hour, you can have a restaurant-worthy meal that will impress anyone who tries it.

Servings:

This recipe is perfect for 4 servings, making it ideal for a cozy dinner for two (with leftovers!) or a small family meal. If you’re hosting more people, simply double the recipe.

Nutrition (per serving):

Calories: 530
(This is a rich dish, but oh so worth it!)
Protein: 45g
(You’re getting a nice boost of protein with each serving)
Fat: 32g
(Cream and olive oil bring that richness, but it’s balanced by lean chicken)
Carbohydrates: 9g
(Thanks to the sun-dried tomatoes and the sauce)
Sodium: 780mg
(If you use low-sodium broth and adjust your seasoning, it keeps this in check)

Related: Low-Carb Vegetarian Recipes

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Marry Me Chicken

Besides the fact that it’s downright delicious, this dish is also super versatile. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes is nothing short of spectacular. Plus, the Parmesan and basil add just the right amount of savory flavor to keep you coming back for more.

Serving Suggestions

Now that your Marry Me Chicken is ready, let’s talk about the best ways to serve it. While this dish is absolutely divine on its own, pairing it with the right sides can take it to a whole new level.

1. Pasta:
Creamy sauces love pasta! Serve Marry Me Chicken over fettuccine, linguine, or any pasta you have on hand. The sauce clings to the noodles, and every bite is pure bliss.

2. Rice:
If you’re looking for something lighter, rice is a great option. I recommend jasmine or basmati rice. The light, fluffy grains soak up that rich sauce beautifully.

3. Mashed Potatoes:
Feeling indulgent? Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect bed for this chicken. The smooth potatoes complement the tangy sauce for a comforting combination.

4. Steamed Vegetables or Salad:
If you want to balance the richness of the dish with something light and fresh, go for steamed veggies like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans. A crisp, green salad with a lemon vinaigrette also makes for a refreshing side dish.

5. Crusty Bread:
Of course, don’t forget the bread! You’ll want something to mop up every last drop of that glorious sauce. A warm baguette or homemade garlic bread will do the trick.

Variations and Additions

While the traditional Marry Me Chicken is already packed with flavor, you can always add a little twist to make it your own. Here are a few ideas to get creative with the dish:

Add mushrooms: Sauté some sliced mushrooms along with the garlic for extra earthy flavor.
Try spinach: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach at the end of cooking for a pop of color and added nutrition.
Go spicy: If you like more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Swap the chicken: If you’re not in the mood for chicken breasts, this recipe works wonderfully with boneless, skinless chicken thighs as well.

Leftovers (If You’re Lucky!)

If by some miracle you have leftovers, they reheat beautifully! Store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the sauce to bring back its creamy texture. You can even shred the leftover chicken and toss it with pasta or use it to top a salad for a quick and easy lunch.

A Recipe to Treasure

So, there you have it—Marry Me Chicken, a dish that’s sure to make hearts swoon. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or simply treating yourself to something special, this recipe is a winner every time. The flavors are rich, indulgent, and comforting, yet it’s so easy to make that it feels like a secret weapon in the kitchen.

Remember, love can be found in the simplest things, and sometimes it’s as easy as a home-cooked meal shared with someone special.