Marry Me Chicken is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It features tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce that’s packed with flavor. The sauce is rich and velvety, with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and a hint of garlic and herbs that make every bite memorable.
I have to admit, when I first tried this recipe, I was hooked immediately. The sauce is so simple yet special—it’s the kind of meal that impresses without spending all day in the kitchen. I love making it on weekends when I want something cozy but not complicated. Plus, it’s a great dish to whip up if you’re cooking for someone special, hence the fun name!
My favorite way to serve Marry Me Chicken is over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside some garlic mashed potatoes so you can soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. It also pairs wonderfully with steamed veggies or a simple green salad to lighten things up. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again—it really makes weeknight dinners feel a little more special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless is best for even cooking. If you prefer, thighs work well too and bring more juiciness.
Sun-dried tomatoes: Use oil-packed for richer flavor. If you only have dry ones, soak them in warm water first to rehydrate.
Heavy cream: Gives the sauce its creamy texture. For a lighter version, try half-and-half or coconut milk, but the sauce won’t be as rich.
Parmesan cheese: Adds saltiness and depth. Grate fresh if possible because pre-grated can be less flavorful. You can swap with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Italian seasoning: A mix of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme adds great aroma. Fresh herbs can be used instead, but add at the end to keep their brightness.
How Can I Sear Chicken Perfectly Without It Sticking or Overcooking?
Searing locks in juices and creates a nice crust. Follow these simple steps:
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning—wet chicken won’t brown well.
- Heat oil in a skillet until shimmering but not smoking.
- Place chicken gently in the pan, don’t move it right away—let it form a crust (about 4-5 mins).
- Flip carefully and cook the other side. If it sticks, give it a bit more time—the chicken will release when ready.
- Remove from pan once golden, then cook through gently in sauce to keep it juicy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for searing chicken and making the creamy sauce all in one pan.
- Tongs – great for flipping the chicken gently without tearing the meat.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your ingredients just right for balanced flavors.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh parsley easily.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – to stir the sauce without scratching your pan.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts with pork chops for a slightly different but just as tender result.
- Add fresh spinach or kale near the end for a pop of green and extra nutrients.
- Mix in a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky touch that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Top with fresh mozzarella or goat cheese instead of Parmesan for a creamier, tangy twist.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed), chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal takes about 10 minutes for prep and roughly 25 minutes to cook. So overall, you’ll be able to enjoy this creamy, delicious dish in about 35 minutes. It’s a great choice for a weeknight meal or a weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Dry the chicken breasts with paper towels and season them generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This helps give the chicken a nice flavor and crust when cooking.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce Base:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until fragrant, but avoid letting it brown too much.
4. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute to bring out their rich flavor.
5. Deglaze and Simmer:
Pour in the chicken broth and use a spoon to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Let the broth simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it reduces slightly.
6. Add Cream and Cheese:
Slowly stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Let the sauce gently simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens just enough.
7. Cook the Chicken in the Sauce:
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon some sauce over them, reduce heat to low, and cover the skillet. Let everything cook together for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
8. Finish and Garnish:
Give the sauce a taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top to add a bit of color and fresh flavor.
9. Serve:
Serve your chicken breasts covered with the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. It’s fantastic over rice, pasta, or creamy mashed potatoes – all perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better texture.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and cook the chicken and sauce, then let it cool before storing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid curdling the sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture.
What Can I Serve with Marry Me Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with white rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. These sides help soak up the rich, creamy sauce perfectly.