Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s one of those recipes that just feels special without being complicated. It features tender chicken breasts cooked in a luscious sauce made from cream, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs, giving it a perfect balance of richness and zest. The name says it all—everyone seems to fall in love with this one bite after bite.
I love making Marry Me Chicken when I want to impress dinner guests or just treat myself to something a little fancy on a weeknight. What makes this dish extra nice is how easy it comes together in one pan, so there’s less cleanup and more time to enjoy the meal. Plus, the creamy sauce thickens up beautifully and coats the chicken in a way that makes it hard to resist licking your plate.
My favorite way to serve this dish is over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside some creamy mashed potatoes, both soaking up all that lovely sauce. Sometimes I add a simple green salad or steamed veggies to keep it balanced and fresh. No matter how I serve it, Marry Me Chicken always brings a warm, comforting feeling to the table that I know my family loves.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: This recipe works best with boneless, skinless breasts for quick cooking. If you prefer dark meat, thighs can be used but may need a bit longer cooking time.
Sun-dried tomatoes: They add a tangy sweetness and depth. If packed in oil isn’t available, use dry-packed but soak them in warm water before cooking.
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce rich and smooth. For a lighter version, try half-and-half or coconut milk, though the texture will be less creamy.
Parmesan cheese: It adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the sauce. Grate fresh if possible, but pre-grated works in a pinch.
Spinach and fresh basil: These fresh herbs bring brightness and color. If fresh basil isn’t handy, chopped fresh parsley is a good alternative.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken is Juicy and Cooked Perfectly?
Getting tender chicken that’s fully cooked but not dry is key here. Here’s how I do it:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning—it helps get a nice sear.
- Use medium-high heat and don’t move the chicken too much so it forms a golden crust.
- Cook about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C) internally.
- After searing, remove the chicken before making the sauce to prevent overcooking.
- Return the chicken to the pan to finish cooking gently in the sauce—this keeps it juicy and flavorful.
Following these steps keeps the chicken tender and lets it soak up the tasty sauce perfectly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for searing chicken and simmering the sauce all in one pan.
- Tongs – help you flip the chicken easily without splattering oil.
- Meat thermometer – ensures your chicken reaches a safe 165°F without drying out.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring the sauce gently without scratching your pan.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a richer flavor and more tender texture.
- Add crumbled goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist that complements the creamy sauce.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers for extra veggies and depth.
- Use fresh thyme or rosemary instead of Italian herbs for a woodsy, aromatic flavor.
Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably packed in oil)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing this dish will take about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 15 minutes for cooking. In just about 25 minutes total, you’ll have a delicious, creamy chicken dinner ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Sear the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry and seasoning them generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, place the chicken in the pan and sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the same pan and sauté for around 30 seconds until you can smell its wonderful aroma. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring them together. Then stir in the Parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
3. Finish with Spinach and Serve:
Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until it wilts. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 more minutes to let the flavors come together. Just before serving, sprinkle with chopped fresh basil to add a fresh, bright touch.
Enjoy your rich and creamy Marry Me Chicken over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a delicious meal everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat it dry thoroughly to get a good sear and avoid excess moisture in the pan.
How Can I Make This Dish Lighter?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lower-fat option. The sauce won’t be as rich, but it will still be tasty!
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Cook the chicken and sauce, then store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove to keep the chicken tender.
What Are Good Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted veggies. These sides soak up the creamy sauce and complete the meal perfectly.
