A Recipe That Feels Like Home
- Quick & Special – Ready in under 30 minutes but tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen.
- Creamy Comfort – That rich, velvety sauce wraps around tender chicken like a warm hug.
- Weeknight Easy – Simple ingredients, one pan, and minimal cleanup for busy evenings.
- Versatile & Welcoming – Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or whenever you need a little extra comfort.
What You’ll Need for This Cozy Marry Me Chicken
For the chicken
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Thighs will give you extra juiciness, but breasts work great too.
- Kosher salt – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- Freshly ground black pepper – Freshly cracked makes all the difference.
- Olive oil – A good quality one for searing the chicken to golden perfection.
For the sauce
- Garlic – Minced fresh is the way to go—no jarred stuff here!
- Low-sodium chicken broth – Helps build a flavorful base without being too salty.
- Heavy cream – The key to that luscious, velvety texture.
- Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated melts so much better than pre-shredded.
- Sun-dried tomatoes in oil – Drain them well and chop finely for little bursts of sweetness.
- Dried oregano – Adds that classic herby depth.
- Crushed red pepper flakes – Just enough for a subtle kick—adjust to your taste.
For finishing
- Fresh basil – Thinly sliced and stirred in at the end for that bright, aromatic finish.
Let’s Talk About Your Time in the Kitchen
I know how precious your evenings are, and this Marry Me Chicken recipe truly respects that. You won’t be stuck over the stove for hours—just about 10 minutes of prep work, and then it simmers away beautifully for another 25. In under 35 minutes total, you’ll have a meal that feels both special and completely doable on a busy weeknight.
That hands-off simmer time is my favorite part. It gives the sauce a chance to thicken and the flavors to deepen, all while you might set the table or simply enjoy the wonderful smells filling your kitchen. It’s the kind of easy family dinner that leaves everyone feeling nourished and happy, with plenty of time left over to relax. If you love recipes that come together without a fuss, you might also enjoy my chicken pasta bake for another simple, crowd-pleasing option.
Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 0.5 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.33 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil drained and finely chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 0.25 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 0.25 cup fresh basil thinly sliced
Method
- Pat the chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides evenly with the salt and black pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant.
- Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 1 minute. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has slightly thickened and is smooth.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with any accumulated juices. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and let it warm through for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil just before serving.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Cooking With Heart for Every Diet
In our family, we believe good food is for everyone, so I always think about how to make our favorite recipes work for different needs. If you’re sugar conscious or looking for more diabetic-friendly options, this creamy Marry Me Chicken can be a wonderful fit with a couple of gentle tweaks. It’s all about leaning into the natural, savory flavors already shining through.
For better glycemic control, you could serve this over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta. The sun-dried tomatoes do bring a touch of natural sweetness, but you can reduce the amount slightly if you prefer. And when it comes to the Parmesan, a little goes a long way for flavor, helping keep things mindful without sacrificing that rich, comforting taste we all love.
My Best Tips for Your Best Chicken
Over the years, I’ve made this Marry Me Chicken more times than I can count, and I’ve picked up a few little secrets along the way. First, for the most tender chicken, let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking—it makes such a difference. And always pat it completely dry with a paper towel; that’s the key to getting a beautiful golden sear.
If you’re out of heavy cream, full-fat coconut milk can be a surprisingly rich and delicious swap. For a diet tweak, try using a mix of grated zucchini to bulk up the sauce with extra veggies. When reheating leftovers, do it gently over low heat and stir in a splash of chicken broth to bring the sauce back to its creamy glory. And if you adore these kinds of creamy, herby dishes, you must try my creamy basil pesto pasta next—it has that same comforting feel. For another family favorite, this garlic chicken breast is always a hit.
Nourishing Your Body and Soul
This dish is a lovely balance of protein and comforting flavors. Chicken breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, helping you feel full and satisfied, while the tomatoes and garlic bring their own wonderful benefits to the table. I always feel good serving a meal that’s both wholesome and indulgent.
The Parmesan cheese adds calcium, and using a good olive oil gives you those healthy fats we all need. For a deeper look into balanced eating habits, the New York Times cooking techniques often discuss the value of quality ingredients. If you’re looking for more protein-packed ideas, my Italian chicken cutlets are another great option. And for a different take on a creamy favorite, this creamy spinach pasta is always a hit.
A Lighter, Just-As-Cozy Version
Sometimes you want all the comfort but a slightly lighter touch, and this recipe is wonderful for that. For a lower-fat version, you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk for the heavy cream—just let it simmer a little longer to thicken up. I’ve found it still gives you that velvety texture we love.
You can also boost the veggies by stirring in a handful of fresh spinach right at the end, letting it wilt into the warm sauce. For another deliciously lighter dish, my chicken cutlets are always a family pleaser. And if you’re craving pasta, this creamy garlic chicken meatballs recipe offers a fun twist.
Gathering Around the Table
This Marry Me Chicken always takes me back to Sunday dinners at my grandma’s house, where the table was crowded with loved ones and stories were passed around like the mashed potatoes. It’s that kind of dish—meant for sharing and connecting.
I love to serve it over a bed of soft, cooked pasta so it can soak up every bit of that glorious sauce. A simple green salad with a sharp vinaigrette on the side cuts through the richness perfectly. For a heartier meal, it’s also wonderful with some crusty bread for dipping. If you’re planning a full menu, my chicken tetrazzini makes another fantastic centerpiece. And for those romantic dinner ideas, this dish pairs beautifully with a simple garlic Parmesan chicken spaghetti.
I remember making this for my husband on our first anniversary at home. The look on his face when he took that first bite—well, let’s just say the name fits. It’s become our little tradition ever since.
Simple Tricks for a Perfect Dish Every Time
Even the most comforting recipes can have their little pitfalls, so here’s how to avoid them. First, don’t rush the sear on your chicken. Getting that beautiful golden-brown color is what builds the foundation of flavor for your entire pan-seared chicken in Parmesan cream sauce.
Second, please grate your Parmesan fresh from a block. The pre-shredded stuff just doesn’t melt the same way and can leave your sauce grainy. And finally, be careful not to overheat the sauce once the cream is in—a gentle simmer is all you need. If it boils, it might separate and lose that smooth, luxurious texture. For more guidance on technique, the British culinary authority has wonderful tips. If you enjoy baked dishes, my cheesy garlic chicken bake is another great one to try. And for a different style of chicken, these crispy garlic chicken cutlets are always a hit.
I’ve made all these mistakes myself over the years, so trust me, learning the easy way is much more fun! Nothing beats the smell of this savory baked chicken with basil coming from your oven without any worries.
Keeping the Comfort for Later
This tender chicken in a rich tomato broth stores beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. I often make a double batch so we can enjoy it again later in the week. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container—it will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. I like to portion it out into freezer-safe containers so it’s easy to thaw just what we need. To reheat, do it slowly on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help the sauce come back together. For another great make-ahead meal, my chicken casserole is a family favorite. And if you love pepperoncini, this creamy pepperoncini chicken is a must-try.
It reminds me of my mom, who always had something good tucked away in the freezer for unexpected guests or just those nights when no one felt like cooking. It’s a small act of love that pays back tenfold.
I Hope You’ll Make This Recipe Your Own
There’s something truly special about sharing a recipe that has brought so much joy to my own family table. I hope this Marry Me Chicken becomes a part of your story too, whether it’s for a quiet Tuesday night or a celebration.
Don’t be afraid to add your own touch—maybe a extra sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat, or some chopped artichoke hearts because you love them. The best recipes are the ones that feel like home to you. If you try it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. For more inspiration, explore my chicken pasta collection, try this beloved Marry Me Chicken recipe, or discover more creamy garlic chicken meatballs. For a different pasta experience, this creamy spinach pasta is wonderful, and for a baked option, this cheesy garlic chicken bake never fails. Happy cooking!
More Cozy Chicken Dinners You’ll Adore
If you loved the comforting feel of this dish, here are a few more family-friendly recipes that always bring everyone to the table.
Simple Garlic Herb Chicken Breast – Juicy and flavorful, this is a weeknight hero you’ll make again and again.
Classic Chicken Tetrazzini – A creamy, baked pasta dish that’s pure nostalgia in every bite.
Crispy Italian Chicken Cutlets – Golden, crunchy, and perfect for sandwiches or topping a salad.
Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken – Tangy, tender, and incredibly easy for a set-it-and-forget-it meal.
Questions You Might Have
Why do they call it “marry me chicken”?
The name comes from the idea that this dish is so delicious and impressive, it might just inspire a proposal! It’s known for being a special occasion meal, like a Marry Me Chicken pasta dish perfect for a romantic dinner. The creamy sauce and tender chicken truly feel like a loving gesture.
What is Marry Me Chicken?
It’s a beloved recipe featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, creamy sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and herbs. This Marry Me Chicken creamy version is especially popular for its decadent flavor and surprisingly easy preparation, making it a favorite for both weeknights and date nights.
Is Marry Me Chicken really that good?
Yes, it absolutely lives up to the hype! The combination of the savory pan-seared chicken, the sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and the rich, garlicky cream sauce is truly irresistible. It’s one of those meals that feels much fancier than the effort required. For different ways to enjoy it, you can find recipe variations and serving suggestions that keep it exciting.
Is Marry Me Chicken the same as Tuscan chicken?
They are quite similar but not exactly the same. Both often feature a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, but Marry Me Chicken Parmesan version typically has a more distinct, richer Parmesan flavor and a reputation for being an “extra special” occasion dish. Tuscan chicken might include a wider variety of vegetables like spinach or artichokes.
