Imagine a dish so irresistibly rich and comforting that it could spark romance with every bite. That’s The Original Marry Me Chicken for you! After multiple rounds of testing, I can confidently say it’s a delightful balance of flavors that brings warmth to any dinner table. From the creamy sauce to the tender chicken, each element plays a role in making this a standout recipe. For another swoon-worthy chicken dinner, check out my Honey Glazed Chicken.
About The Original Marry Me Chicken
The Original Marry Me Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the charm of Italian cuisine with the ease of a weeknight meal. I tested this recipe while plotting a cozy dinner for friends, and it quickly became a favorite. It’s perfect for special occasions or adding flair to an ordinary weeknight. The interplay of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy sauce brings a richness that feels luxurious without a hefty price tag.
- Quick prep time makes it easy for busy evenings.
- Budget-friendly with widely available ingredients.
- A family favorite that appeals to both kids and adults.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a unique depth of flavor.
Key Ingredients & Their Roles
- Chicken Breasts: The star of the dish; tender cuts cook evenly and absorb flavors well.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Provide a tangy sweetness that enhances the creamy sauce.
- Heavy Cream: Gives richness; can substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
How to Make The Original Marry Me Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large ovenproof skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook until each side is golden brown and cooked through, about 5 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken and sizzle the remaining olive oil in the same skillet. Add minced garlic, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer to meld the flavors.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and transfer to the oven. Bake until the chicken is cooked through (165°F), about 10–12 minutes.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking.
- A common rookie mistake is overcooking; use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
- Add seasonal veggies like spinach or sun-dried pumpkin for an autumnal twist.
- Feel free to halve the recipe; it cooks just as well with two chicken breasts.
Storage & Make-Ahead Guide
This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. If freezing, make sure to do so before adding the cream; it freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave at low heat to avoid separation. In my experience, making it ahead of time only enhances the flavors as they have time to meld.
Serving Suggestions
Pair The Original Marry Me Chicken with a side of roasted asparagus and warm crusty bread for a complete meal. For a lighter option, serve it on a bed of mixed greens. Discover more side ideas in my Maple Roasted Carrots as an excellent companion.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Marry Me Chicken? It’s a creamy chicken dish with sun-dried tomatoes, great for special occasions.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, it stores well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- What can I substitute for heavy cream? Coconut milk or Greek yogurt can be great alternatives.
- How do I know when the chicken is done cooking? Use an instant-read thermometer; it should read 165°F at the thickest part.
- Can I include vegetables in this recipe? Absolutely! Spinach or bell peppers would fit nicely.
Final Thoughts
The Original Marry Me Chicken holds a special place in my heart for its ability to delight everyone at the dinner table. Its creamy richness combined with bursts of flavor will leave you coming back for more. I encourage you to give it a try and share your experiences!
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Honey Glazed Chicken – a deliciously sweet and savory dish that pairs well with chicken.
- Creamy Italian Meatball Soup – rich flavors that complement chicken with a creamy twist.
- Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs – a zesty option that highlights the chicken’s flavors.
The Original Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil divided
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp Kosher salt
- 1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 0.75 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes finely chopped
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese finely grated
- 1 cup fresh basil torn, for serving
Instructions
- Arrange a rack in the center of the oven; preheat to 375°F. In a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Generously season chicken with salt and black pepper and cook, turning halfway through, until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a plate.
- In the same skillet over medium heat, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir in garlic, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in broth, tomatoes, cream, and Parmesan; season with salt. Bring to a simmer, then return chicken and any accumulated juices to the skillet.
- Transfer skillet to the oven. Bake chicken until cooked through and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 165°F, 10 to 12 minutes.
- Arrange chicken on a platter. Spoon sauce over. Top with basil.