Name: Marry Me Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 2 pounds; 1½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup chicken stock; 1 teaspoon chicken flavor “Better Than Bouillon” or 1 chicken bouillon cube; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided; 1 (7-ounce) jar sun-dried tomatoes, drained and roughly chopped; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); ¼ cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves; Cooked pasta or mashed potatoes

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 258 reviews

There is something truly magical about the Marry Me Chicken Recipe that makes it a standout favorite in any home cook’s repertoire. This dish brings together tender, golden-browned chicken breasts swimming in a luxuriously creamy sauce bursting with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fragrant Italian herbs. The layers of flavor somehow balance each other so perfectly that it feels like you’re indulging in a gourmet experience right from your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving comfort food with a twist, this recipe delivers every time and might just inspire some serious kitchen romance.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows three pieces of raw chicken, pale pink and smooth, resting on white paper in the bottom left. Around the chicken are small white bowls with various ingredients: bright red chopped sun-dried tomatoes in one, minced garlic in another, and light yellow grated cheese in a wooden bowl. There are also small dishes with light brown honey or oil and small piles of spices such as dried herbs, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper in small stone or ceramic bowls. Fresh dark green basil leaves are arranged on the white marbled surface to the right, next to a small jar of white sauce. A glass container of light yellow liquid sits in the top left corner. The photo has soft lighting and is arranged neatly on a white marbled background, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are delightfully simple yet pack a punch of flavor and texture that elevate this dish. Each one plays a crucial role—from the juicy chicken breasts providing protein and substance, to the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil adding pops of color and brightness. The creamy sauce, enriched with Parmesan and a touch of heat, ties everything together beautifully.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing tender, juicy meat when cooked just right.
1½ teaspoons kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: For perfectly browning the chicken with a rich, fruity note.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a hint of warmth to the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the indulgently silky base of the creamy sauce.
½ cup chicken stock: Adds moisture and a savory backbone to the sauce.
1 teaspoon chicken flavor “Better Than Bouillon” or 1 chicken bouillon cube: Boosts the umami and intensifies chicken flavor.
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Gives the sauce a nutty richness and helps it thicken.
1 (7-ounce) jar sun-dried tomatoes, drained and roughly chopped: Introduces tangy sweetness and vivid color.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that contributes classic Mediterranean flavor.
½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity.
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a subtle kick of spice.
¼ cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves: Freshness and fragrant herbal notes right before serving.
Cooked pasta or mashed potatoes (optional): Perfect companions to soak up the luscious sauce.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Season and Brown the Chicken

The foundation to this spectacular dish starts with perfectly seasoned chicken breasts. Pat them dry so they brown beautifully instead of steaming, then sprinkle with kosher salt for that essential layer of flavor. Heating the olive oil until it’s shimmering ensures a golden crust forms when you place the chicken in the skillet. Avoid moving the chicken around too much—patience here creates an irresistible sear that locks in juices. After about 5 minutes per side, your chicken should be golden and just waiting to shine in the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Decadent Sauce

Once the chicken is set aside, it’s time to craft the starry sauce that makes the Marry Me Chicken Recipe legendary. Lower the heat to medium and toss in minced garlic to infuse the oil with aroma, stirring until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken stock, then blend in the “Better Than Bouillon” or bouillon cube for a savory, concentrated chicken essence. Stir in fresh Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, black pepper, red pepper flakes for a subtle fire if you like, and the rest of the salt. Whisk until smooth and heavenly. This sauce screams indulgence and comfort in every spoonful.

Step 3: Return Chicken to Simmer in Sauce

Nestle the browned chicken back into that flavorful sauce, making sure each piece gets coated lovingly in the creamy mixture. Bring the skillet to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low so the sauce thickens as the chicken continues cooking through. Using an instant-read thermometer is a wise move here—to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe, juicy meat. This stage takes about 8 to 10 minutes, and your patience will be rewarded with tender chicken infused with all those rich flavors.

Step 4: Finishing Touches and Serving

When the chicken hits perfect doneness and the sauce has thickened to silky perfection, it’s time to take it off the heat. Sprinkle fresh basil and the remaining Parmesan cheese atop to add freshness and a creamy, salty finish. If you’re a fan of heat, a light dusting of extra red pepper flakes gives a delightful pop against the lush sauce. Serve it over your favorite cooked pasta or creamy mashed potatoes so the sauce doesn’t go to waste—every bite should be heavenly indulgence.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Recipe

The image shows a white pan filled with four large chicken pieces in a creamy sauce. The sauce is light beige with visible bits of red tomatoes and small green herbs scattered on top. The chicken pieces are thick and coated in the sauce, with some spots showing a golden-brown sear. Around the pan on a white marbled surface, there are fresh green basil leaves, a small bowl with red chili flakes, and another bowl with what looks like shaved cheese. The whole scene is bright and fresh, with the creamy sauce looking smooth and slightly thick. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh basil isn’t just for flavor; it brings a gorgeous splash of green that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce and sun-dried tomatoes. Parmesan shavings or an extra sprinkle of freshly grated cheese add texture and richness. A pinch of red pepper flakes can bring just the right touch of spice to awaken your palate—feel free to tailor garnishes to your taste and celebration style.

Side Dishes

This dish feels complete when paired with starches that soak up the luscious sauce. Creamy mashed potatoes or a generous helping of pasta are classic choices, but roasted vegetables or garlic bread can add a nice textural balance. Consider serving alongside a crisp green salad or sautéed greens to add freshness and round out your meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re aiming to impress, serve the chicken sliced on a platter with the sauce drizzled artistically over the top and scattered fresh basil leaves for an elegant look. For a casual vibe, try family-style presentation in the skillet itself so everyone can help themselves to that irresistible sauce. Adding a sprig of basil or a lemon wedge on the side can add the extra touch of love your guests will notice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Marry Me Chicken tastes wonderfully comforting the next day. Let the chicken cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, retaining its creamy goodness and tender texture if well covered.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, but be mindful that the texture of the cream sauce might change slightly upon thawing. Store the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw slowly overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken gently over low heat in a covered pan, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. Adding a splash of cream or chicken stock as it warms helps restore the sauce’s silky texture. Avoid microwaving on high heat to keep the flavors harmonious and texture intact.

FAQs

What makes Marry Me Chicken Recipe so special?

This recipe’s charm lies in its luscious, creamy sauce full of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan paired with perfectly seared chicken. The balance of flavors and textures creates a dish that feels both elegant and comforting, making it feel worthy of the name.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs offer even more juicy flavor and tend to stay tender while simmering in the sauce. Adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they are cooked through but still tender.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Keep in mind the taste and texture will differ, but it can still be delicious.

How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?

The optional red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth rather than intense heat. You can adjust the amount or omit them entirely depending on how much spice you desire.

What can I serve if I want a low-carb option?

Instead of pasta or potatoes, serve Marry Me Chicken over cauliflower rice, sautéed zucchini noodles, or a bed of steamed asparagus for a lighter, low-carb meal that still soaks up the glorious sauce perfectly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like it was made with love and delivers incredible comfort and flavor, the Marry Me Chicken Recipe is a must-try. Its creamy sauce, sun-dried tomato brightness, and juicy chicken come together in perfect harmony to make every meal special. Invite someone you care about to share it, or savor it yourself—you won’t regret it!