Marry Me Chicken

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Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish that has won hearts with its rich, indulgent sauce and perfectly seared chicken. The combination of tender chicken breasts, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a luscious parmesan cream sauce makes this meal unforgettable. Whether you’re making it for a romantic dinner or a comforting family meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Why is it Called Marry Me Chicken?

This dish got its name because of how incredibly delicious it is—so good that it might just inspire a marriage proposal! With its creamy, garlicky, and slightly tangy flavors, this meal is both comforting and elegant, making it a perfect choice for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

A Creamy, Flavorful Chicken Dish

Marry Me Chicken is a pan-seared chicken dish simmered in a rich sauce made from heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. The balance of flavors—creamy, cheesy, and slightly tangy—creates a dish that’s hard to resist.

This one-pan recipe is easy to prepare and pairs beautifully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a family gathering, or simply craving something delicious, Marry Me Chicken is a must-try dish.

Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken

To make this irresistibly creamy and flavorful dish, you’ll need a handful of simple yet rich ingredients. Each component plays a key role in balancing the flavors and textures of the dish.

• Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. They sear beautifully, locking in juices while staying tender in the creamy sauce.
• Olive Oil – Used to sear the chicken and enhance its golden-brown crust while adding a subtle richness.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic infuses the sauce with a deep, aromatic flavor that complements the creamy base.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – These add a sweet, tangy depth that perfectly balances the richness of the cream and parmesan.
• Chicken Broth – Enhances the flavor of the sauce and keeps the dish from becoming too heavy.
• Heavy Cream – The key ingredient that creates a velvety, luxurious sauce that coats every bite of chicken.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty, salty, and umami-rich taste to the sauce, bringing everything together beautifully.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – A pinch of red pepper flakes gives the dish a mild heat that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme infuses the sauce with a fragrant, savory touch.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the dish.
• Fresh Basil or Parsley (for Garnish) – Adds a burst of freshness and color to the final dish.

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How to Make Marry Me Chicken

This dish comes together quickly in just a few steps, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Here’s how to bring it to life:

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to deglaze it.

Step 3: Add the Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Stir well until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.

Step 4: Simmer the Chicken

Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over the top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice for a complete meal.

How Long to Cook Marry Me Chicken

Cooking times can vary based on the thickness of your chicken breasts, but here’s a general guideline to ensure perfectly cooked, tender chicken every time:

• Searing Time – Cook the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side over medium-high heat until golden brown.
• Simmering Time – After adding the chicken to the sauce, let it simmer for 10-12 minutes on low heat until fully cooked.
• Internal Temperature – Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C) at its thickest part before serving.

Keeping an eye on these times ensures your chicken stays juicy and tender without drying out.

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How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, Marry Me Chicken stores well and tastes just as delicious the next day. Here’s how to properly store and reheat it:

• Refrigerator – Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer – You can freeze Marry Me Chicken for up to 2 months. Store it in a freezer-safe container and thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating – Warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen up the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may cause the chicken to dry out.

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Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken

Want to make sure your dish turns out perfect every time? Here are some expert tips:

• Use Thin Chicken Breasts – If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half horizontally or pound them slightly to ensure even cooking.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Once the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), remove the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency – If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer.
• Enhance the Flavor – For extra depth, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a bit of Dijon mustard to the sauce.
• Pairing Suggestions – Serve Marry Me Chicken over pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe and stay extra juicy. Adjust cooking time as needed since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?
For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk, though the sauce may not be as thick and creamy.

Can I make Marry Me Chicken in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Simply reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

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