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Marry Me Chicken Recipe (Ready in 40 Minutes)

🕒 Prep: 10 min | 🍳 Cook: 30 min | 👥 Serves: 4 | 🔥 520 kcal

Picture this: a cozy evening, the kitchen filled with the warm, savory aroma of garlic and herbs, and a skillet sizzling with creamy, dreamy Marry Me Chicken. This dish isn’t just food—it’s a love letter in every bite. Legend has it, this chicken is so irresistibly delicious that it’s sparked proposals (or at least some very serious dinner table compliments)! The first time I made it, my partner took one bite and said, “This is the kind of meal that makes you want to settle down.” No pressure, but this recipe might just steal someone’s heart! With tender chicken breasts nestled in a velvety sauce bursting with sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and fragrant herbs, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet comes together in under 40 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or just treating yourself, this Marry Me Chicken is your ticket to a memorable meal that’s as easy as it is swoon-worthy.

Why You'll LOVE This Recipe ✨

• Craving comfort food but short on time? This one-pan dish delivers rich, restaurant-quality flavors in under 40 minutes.
• The secret combo of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy Parmesan sauce creates an unforgettable umami explosion.
• It’s versatile—perfect for keto, low-carb, or dairy-free diets with simple swaps!

Ingredients 📋

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for dairy-free)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It (5 Steps) 📝

1. Step 1: Prep the Chicken
   Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this ensures a golden sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. A hot pan is key to locking in the chicken’s juices, so don’t rush this step! Sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown. Don’t worry about cooking it through yet; it’ll finish in the sauce. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.
2. Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
   Add minced garlic to the same skillet, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant—your kitchen will smell amazing! If using garlic powder, sprinkle it in now and stir briefly. The residual heat from the chicken sear adds depth to the garlic’s flavor. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic turns bitter and can throw off the sauce’s balance.
3. Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
   Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up those flavorful brown bits. Add the heavy cream (or coconut cream), sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan (or nutritional yeast), oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Stir over medium heat until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3–4 minutes. The sun-dried tomatoes release their sweet, tangy essence here, while the Parmesan melts into a silky texture. Fun fact: the casein in cheese helps emulsify the sauce, giving it that luxurious mouthfeel.
4. Step 4: Simmer the Chicken
   Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Spoon the sauce over the chicken occasionally to keep it moist. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.
5. Step 5: Garnish and Serve
   Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the top for a pop of color and herbaceous freshness. Slice the chicken or serve whole, spooning extra sauce over each piece. Plate it with a side of pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of that creamy goodness. For an elegant touch, garnish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil.

Pro Tips 🎓

1. Avoid dry chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken hits 165°F without overcooking, keeping it juicy.
2. Maximize flavor: Let the sun-dried tomatoes soak in the broth for a minute before adding cream to intensify their umami punch.
3. Storage: Keeps for 3–4 days in an airtight container in the fridge or up to 2 months frozen. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to revive the sauce.

Variations 🌱

• Vegan: Swap chicken for tofu cutlets and use coconut cream with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free, plant-based version.
• Spicy: Double the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne for a fiery kick.
• Kid-friendly: Reduce red pepper flakes to ¼ teaspoon and blend the sauce for a smoother texture kids love.

What to Serve With 🍽️

• Garlic butter pasta to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Roasted asparagus for a fresh, crunchy contrast.
• A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing pairing.

FAQ ❓

Can I make it in an air fryer?

Yes! Sear the chicken in a skillet, then transfer to an air fryer at 360°F (182°C) for 8–10 minutes. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and air fry for 2–3 more minutes to meld flavors.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your chicken broth is certified gluten-free.

How to store it?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of broth.

Nutrition 🥗

Calories: 520 kcal | Protein: 38g | Carbs: 8g | Fat: 36g

*Estimated values.*

Try It Yourself! 💬

Did you try this recipe? Leave a comment below or tag us on Pinterest — your feedback inspires more recipes ❤️