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Marry Me Chicken

This Marry Me Chicken is a show-stopping yet simple dinner that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Juicy chicken breasts are pan-seared until golden, then simmered in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce loaded with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. Finished with fresh basil, this dish feels elegant enough for date night but easy enough for busy weeknights. Serve it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of the luxurious sauce. One bite of this comforting, restaurant-style chicken, and it’s easy to see how it earned its unforgettable name.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients
  • Chicken
  • About 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (roughly 3–4 large pieces)
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or another neutral cooking oil
  • Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
  • ¾ cup low-sodium chicken stock
  • ½ cup heavy cream brought to room temperature
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese room temperature
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes oil-packed preferred
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional but recommended
  • Optional Garnishes
  • Fresh basil thinly sliced
  • Extra grated Parmesan

Method
 

1. Sear the chicken

Heat the oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, place the chicken in the pan and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, just until lightly golden. The chicken should not be cooked through yet. Transfer it to a plate and set aside.

    2. Build the sauce

    Lower the heat slightly and add the garlic to the same skillet. Sauté briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up all those flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool for a minute or two—just enough so the cheese won’t clump. Stir in the Parmesan until smooth and melted. Return the skillet to the burner and let the sauce warm up gently. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.

      3. Finish the dish

      Nestle the chicken back into the sauce, turning it to coat or spooning sauce generously over the top. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven and cook until the chicken reaches 160°F internally. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to finish cooking and stay juicy. Garnish, serve, and prepare for compliments.

        Notes

        Pro Tips for Best Results

        • Room-temperature dairy = smoother sauce. Cold cream or cheese can seize.
        • Don’t rush the sear. That golden crust adds serious flavor.
        • Grate your own Parmesan. Pre-shredded cheese won’t melt as well.

        Serving Ideas

        • Spoon over fettuccine, penne, or angel hair pasta
        • Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or rice
        • Serve alongside roasted asparagus, green beans, or broccoli
        • Add crusty bread to soak up every drop of sauce (non-negotiable)

        FAQs

        Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
         Absolutely. Boneless thighs work beautifully and stay extra juicy.
        Is this dish spicy?
         Not really. The red pepper flakes add warmth, not heat—feel free to skip or increase them.
        Can I make this ahead of time?
         Yes! Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
        Can I make it without an oven?
         Yes—cover the skillet and simmer gently on the stovetop until the chicken is cooked through.

        Final Thoughts

        This Marry Me Chicken isn’t just dinner—it’s a statement meal. Creamy, savory, and just fancy enough to feel special without being fussy, it’s the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your rotation. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or someone you’re trying to seriously impress, this dish delivers every single time. One bite, and yeah… the name makes total sense. 💍🍗