If you’re ready to taste a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and downright irresistible, this Marry Me Chicken might just sweep you off your feet! (Yes, it’s that good!) This dish is rumored to be so delicious, it could convince someone to propose—but even if no rings are exchanged, it’s sure to become a staple at your dinner table.
Hook: Picture tender chicken breasts, simmered in a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs. Your taste buds are already excited, aren’t they?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a one-pan wonder: Fewer dishes, more deliciousness.
- Packed with flavor: The combination of creamy Parmesan, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes is pure perfection.
- Prep-friendly: Uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your fridge or pantry.
- Weeknight or date night: Elegant but easy enough for any occasion.
Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials for Marry Me Chicken:
- Chicken Breasts: Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You can also use thighs if you prefer dark meat.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic makes all the difference. It gives the sauce that aromatic depth.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a tangy, sweet kick. Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for best flavor.
- Heavy Cream: This is the creamy foundation of the sauce. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version, but it won’t be quite as rich.
- Chicken Broth: To balance the creaminess and add a savory note.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for that robust, salty layer of flavor.
- Fresh Thyme: The herbaceous touch that really elevates the dish. Dried thyme will work in a pinch!
Pro Tips:
- If you’re out of sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers can work as a flavorful alternative.
- Prefer dairy-free? Swap the cream for coconut cream and skip the cheese—it’s a different flavor but still delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with a generous pinch of salt and pepper on each side.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add garlic. Sauté for about a minute, just until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. (Those bits are pure flavor!)
- Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine, and let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over each piece. Sprinkle with fresh thyme.
- Transfer the skillet into the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Remove from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes, and garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Golden Tip: Searing the chicken first locks in the juices and gives you that gorgeous color.
- Don’t let the sauce boil—gentle simmering is the key to keeping it smooth and creamy.
- If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up before serving.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for portobello mushrooms or tofu and follow the same steps.
- Add some spice by sprinkling in red chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for soaking up all that dreamy sauce.
- For a fresh, bright balance, serve with a simple side salad or steamed green beans.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster than chicken breasts.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken?
Yes! Allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as described above.
Marry Me Chicken Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Serves: 4
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear in a skillet with olive oil until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Cook garlic in the same skillet until fragrant. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir and simmer.
- Return chicken to the skillet, spoon over sauce, sprinkle with thyme, and bake for 20 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or parsley if desired.
This Marry Me Chicken is a foolproof way to win over anyone at the table—or even yourself! I hope you give it a try, and when you do, don’t forget to share it with me. Tag your photos with #TheKitchensAid on social media—I love seeing your creations. Enjoy!
